A new LMDS Architecture based on TLN

Two central trends are defining the next major phase of network evolution and market opportunity: broadband networking and wireless access. In line with this evolution, the demand of Local Multipoint Distribution Service (LMDS) radio-networks, object of standardisation within the standard bodies (ETSI, CEPT, etc.), is increasing. A basic LMDS network is comprised of an omni-directional or sectorized base station, user antennas with network interface units and/or set-top boxes, and equipment required for wide area network interconnection, such as links to a telephone central office or CATV head end. In the present paper an alternative approach to this architecture is considered. This architecture is based on a Two-Layer Network (TLN) which consists of subscribers grouped in microcells included in a macrocell where the LMDS signal is transmitted. The TLN flexibility in terms of coverage area, due to the usage of Local Repeaters (LR´s), that could be allocated on the basis of the physical configuration of the user premises, makes the LMDS-TLN an attractive solution worthy of investigation and implementation.