Powering outdoor wireless networks

The world’s reliance on always-on technology keeps growing. Yet, the electrical infrastructure powering our wireless networks holds us back. 5G will require more of everything: RF equipment and frequencies, radios and remote radio units (RRUs), and hundreds of thousands of small cells. Running individual power to each of them from an aging power grid is too expensive and puts networks’ reliability at serious risk.

To keep pace with the changes and satisfy user expectations of 24/7 availability, we need to re-evaluate how we power, back up and manage our outdoor wireless networks as well as the impact this has on the environment. That means taking stock of where we are, where we need to be, and developing a smarter, future-capable strategy to get us from here to there.

At CommScope, we’ve done the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to. Introducing PowerShift. Two innovative end-to-end intelligent product families for powering today’s and tomorrow’s macro and small cell networks.

Challenges and opportunities

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New macro site designs create new power challenges

New macro site designs place more RF equipment atop the tower, further from the power source. This creates a voltage drop from power source to RRU. During a power outage, the voltage drop varies as backup batteries discharge—creating more risk to system reliability.

What’s the most reliable and efficient way to deliver the correct amount of dc power to each RRU and provide battery backup when the power grid is down?

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An intelligent solution to the small cell power problem

The advanced capabilities of today’s 5G small cells create added power requirements, while customer expectations for reliability demand near-perfect uptime, even when the grid is down. With thousands of small cells, how do you power and backup each one in a way that’s fast, efficient and repeatable?

Why CommScope?

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End-to-end experience

With proven experience that’s as broad as it is deep, CommScope delivers end-to-end solutions that optimize both your macro and small cell networks.

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Global presence

Global manufacturing, distribution and support give you access to the solutions and expertise you need, whenever and wherever you need us. We’ve got you covered.

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Trusted advisor

With a track record spanning 40+ years, CommScope is one of the most trusted names in wireless network design and solutions.

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Sustainable solutions

CommScope’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility has earned us five consecutive gold medals from EcoVadis and helped make a difference in the world we all call home.