@WORK - Technology - Institute for Infocomm Research

The future of radio signals is set to unfold more exciting discoveries with the introduction of Radio-over-Fibre (ROF). With the aid of ROF, radio signals can now be directly transmitted over optical fibre links to transparently distribute radio signals over many areas, and at a lower cost than deploying many base stations. Previously unavailable in the past, ROF now allows the extension of wireless services into radio blind spots and shadow areas using optically linked radio tranceivers. This is a major plus point to cellular networks everywhere, as they can provide high capacity access networks to both fixed and mobile users cost effectively.

Benefits of application
ROF allows multiple services to be introduced onto existing or new fibre installation. Examples of these include GSM, 3G, WLAN and other wireless services.

Advantages at a glance
•	Multiple wireless services on one distribution system
•	Further reach and larger bandwidth
•	Cost effective as pricing is a fraction of a single base station
•	Reduction in equipment cost and complexity of remote base stations
•	Complex equipment can now be co-located in controlled environment, ROF and antennas can also be remoted away
•	Central management system allows upgrades/maintenance of equipment to be done entirely at central office that require minimal attention

Other benefits include its transparent extension which provides reliable and effective extension of wireless services to radio blind spots. Moreover, a hotspot multiplier allows for a low-cost hotspot duplication method for more wireless hotspots.

With ROF playing a significant role in the future, the boundaries of radio signals will inevitably be stretched and redefined.

For enquiries/explore collaboration, please contact:
Industry Development Department
Tel: 65 6874 8399
Fax: 65 6775 9923
Email: inddev@i2r.a-star.edu.sg

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