3G network replaces satellite vans for live remote news broadcasts

Analysis was carried out for a rural news network; analysing signal degradation and throughput using a MiFi device and Deltenna's recently announced WiBE technology.



Both devices access the 3G broadband network and generate a WiFi hotspot. The WiBE also utilises four directional antennas and signal isolation algorithms to enhance the fastest signal in range.



Key summary report findings:

1) The UK's 3G network was able to reliably deliver the bandwidth required for live radio broadcasts in the majority of locations tested throughout the remote county.



2) At one location, used as a refuge by many during the destructive flooding in November 2009, the received signal strength was -77dBm* for the WiBE versus -93dBm for the MiFi meaning the WiBE's high-gain antennas amplified the signal by 40 times relative to the MiFi device.



3) The WiBE also extended the mobile broadband coverage range into the remote forest of Whinlatter (see map: http://bit.ly/ehDYMJ). Here the WiBE's average connection speed was 136KBps; exceeding minimum broadcast quality requirements. The MiFi device failed to register any signal in Whinlatter.



4) The largest recorded connection range was from a 3G base station located an impressive 22.9km (14.2 miles) away**. This connection was achieved using the WiBE.



5) The largest recorded RF signal strength difference was 22dBm, meaning the power reaching the WiBE was over 100 times that of the MiFi.



Tim Tierney, who undertook the tests for the broadcaster commented: Cumbria has significant communications difficulties because of the mountainous terrain and declining availability of ISDN lines. 3G coverage is patchy in Cumbria and we have VSAT capability, but 3G is useful and very economic for coverage in many areas.



Dr Andrew Fox, CEO of Deltenna said: Reliability is crucial in live broadcasts as the listener will instantly spot when technology has failed. The results, especially the 14 mile connection, highlight the increased range that WiBE delivers and its potential to bring broadband to a greater proportion of rural locations.



Deltenna claims the proprietary antennas and algorithms give WiBE a throughput up to 30 times that of a 3G USB dongle or mobile phone and five times the connection range. These tests back this claim.