Microwave transmission is popular technology in modern telecommunications. Telecom service providers use microwave transmissions to bring together customers from around the world through their widespread telecom network. High frequency and low wavelength microwave signals are used to carry voice and data information over long distances, for which metal and optic fiber cables turn extremely expensive and unviable for a telecom service company.
Microwave engineering is a discipline by itself within the larger technology discipline of telecommunication.
Microwave Frequencies:
Microwave signals are usually in the range of 1-30 GHz, which has a wavelength of a few centimeters. At higher frequencies, it is easier for signals to escape and propagate in space, and at the same time, the size of the antenna required for transmission and reception is relatively shorter too.
Transmission towers:
Microwave signals require line of sight for transmission and reception. For this reason, microwave transmission equipment is usually kept hoisted high above the ground and in line of sight arrangement with the next tower which may be located miles away.
The height of the tower ensures that the antennas are located high above the city skyline and can communicate with neighboring sites without any visual hindrance. There are different designs of guyed, as well as self supporting transmission towers.
Different types of antenna used for microwave networks
There are various types of antennas used for microwave network designs that include parabolic reflectors and wave guides. Parabolic reflectors are very large dish shaped antennas that are mounted on motorized assemblies that help in changing its orientation. These are ideally suited for high power uplink and downlink, and form crucial elements for satellite communication.
Wave guides are popularly used for terrestrial transmission links and are aligned with neighboring cell sites.
A combined, well designed network of these microwave components and sites form what we know as a microwave link. There are many specialized design efforts that go into making a complete microwave technology based wireless telecommunication network.
The expertise of a turnkey telecom provider like Mer Telecom comes to the assistance of numerous telecommunication providers. Turnkey providers help assess the exact requirement of the company and design an optimum network for the telecom provider. Entrusting the design and deployment of microwave links and many such aspects of telecom design to a turnkey provider reduces the risk of failure and also ensures timely delivery of the project.
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