CATV, PLC, VSAT, LMDS, UMTS, and WiMAX Technologies
CATV Networks
Cable TV (CATV) networks will offer three packages of services to customers in the form of a triple play offer (voice, data, and television).
Definition of Cable
CATV networks leverage optical fiber and coaxial cable to create a high-speed digital data transmission line.
Power Line Communication (PLC)
Low-voltage electrical cable networks are now being used for broadband Internet access. They utilize the low-voltage power cables in our homes and link them to the local electrical distribution power, creating two frequency ranges:
- Power comes at a low frequency (50 Hz or 60 Hz).
- Data, voice, and image come at a high frequency (1.6-30 MHz).
PLC Product Highlights
- Broadband Technology: Offers high-speed connectivity.
- Speed: Can achieve up to 45 Mbps.
- Installation: Quick and easy setup.
- Access Point: Any electrical outlet can be used for power, data, voice, and image.
Advantages of PLC
- Similar to ADSL, it utilizes existing infrastructure.
- Competitive pricing and quality of services.
Disadvantages of PLC
- High implementation cost for the backbone and adaptation of local power supply.
- Inadequate implementation of ICT throughout the country: Only available in a few areas in the testing phase.
Mobile Communications via Radio
This technology uses radio signals for transport, facilitating Internet access and communication between machines through the air as a means of electromagnetic wave propagation.
Satellite (VSAT)
Introduced in 1957, VSAT is used for broadband Internet access. A satellite dish establishes a direct connection from the user’s computer to the satellite network. In Spain, HISPASAT satellites, launched in 1992, are used. Satellites used for relaying information are classified into two groups:
- C-band Satellites: Older, requiring larger satellite dishes.
- Ku-band Satellites: More modern, using frequencies of 11-12 GHz, commonly used for domestic access.
Local Multipoint Distribution Service (LMDS)
Invented in 1986, LMDS is a fixed radio communication technology where antennas at both ends of communication are always located in the same place.
DLMDS
A wireless communications technology providing broadband service through cells, which are the smallest units of service coverage.
Universal Mobile Telephony System (UMTS)
Emerged in 1998 to create a single mobile phone standard worldwide, with a maximum speed of 2 Mbps. Known as the third generation of mobile telephony, following post-analog (1G) and digital mobile (2G). It shifted from paying for services based on time to paying in proportion to the amount of information conveyed, allowing for continuous connection. In Spain, the companies granted a license in 2000 are: Amena, Vodafone, Movistar, and Xfera.
Metropolitan Wireless Networks (WiMAX)
This technology is a specification for wireless metropolitan networks, invented in 1996. This new standard regulates the proliferation of free Wi-Fi access emerging in cities to implement a profitable business model. It is not yet used by operators in Spain, but the closest thing is ADSL Wi-Fi Hot Spots.
Defining WiMAX
A technology not yet implemented that governs wireless metropolitan networks.