The Technology behind Broadband Connectivity
Over the last few years, mobile operators have been deploying wide area cellular networks. These cellular wireless networks are undergoing a transformation as emerging technologies push the speeds achievable for data transmission into the multi-megabit broadband speeds. These next-generation networks are available in many countries worldwide.
While the predominant users of mobile data services will be individual businesses or consumers, the new generation of wireless networks can deliver broadband connectivity to locations where wireline services cannot (such as to moving vehicles) or where wireline is impractical (such as to outdoor or temporary locations). Using a FleetConnect broadband gateway these connections can be used to ‘bridge’ between the cellular data network and a wide variety of services including WiFi hotspots, outdoor public safety IP-CCTV, and vehicle telematics systems.
Where coverage is available, our broadband gateway can offer operators the opportunity to deliver high-speed Internet connections to moving vehicles. The technology most commonly used to deliver this service is 3G HSPA (high speed Packet Access). Typically, download speeds of 1 to 2 megabits per second are achievable in metropolitan and suburban areas, and along major roads between towns and cities. Within a few years, it is expected that speeds will increase to over five megabits per second, comparable to a home or business broadband connection today. The availability of high-speed broadband connections on vehicles opens up a host of new possibilities for operators of public and private transportation.