Application of front terminal VRLA batteries in base stations - a study by a global telecom operator

Traditionally, 2V cells have been the most widely batteries used in the base stations in the China Mobile network, and have provided very good performance over the years. As technology has advanced, and space or “footprint” has become more and more valuable in large urban installations, 12V front terminal batteries (that require far less space), are becoming more and more attractive. This paper will introduce how 12V front terminal VRLA batteries are being applied in base stations as power supply back up within the China Mobile Network. There is concern whether the present 12V front terminal VRLA batteries will be able to legitimately replace the 2V VRLA batteries, with consistent performance, in most installations. What challenge will the telecom operator face when using 12V front terminal batteries? China Mobile investigated this question and attempted to find out the detailed technical characteristics of the 12V front terminal VRAL batteries, the advantages, as well as the relevant challenge widely deploying these batteries in China Mobile´s network. Compiling field and lab data, China Mobile has been able to fully evaluate 12V batteries in the most appropriate sites, with the least possible risk, and to their best advantage.