Enabling rural broadband via TV "white space"

The use of multiple frequency bands within a wireless network allows the advantages of each band to be exploited. In this paper we discuss how HopScotch, a rural wireless broadband access test bed running in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, uses both 5 GHz and ultra high frequency "white space" bands to offer large data rates and expansive coverage whilst reducing the number of base stations or required transmission power. This reduction in energy consumption allows HopScotch to provide a low-cost and green solution for rural broadband delivery

"WindFi" - a renewable powered base station for rural broadband

The HopScotch rural wireless broadband access test bed uses a network of low power base stations, powered by renewable energy sources to provide a low-cost rural broadband solution. In this paper we discuss the low power design aspects of the HopScotch base station and the impact on the required generation potential of renewable sources, battery bank sizing and the use of tracking PV arrays

Practical aspects of broadband access for rural communities using a cost and power efficient multi-hop/relay network

Wireless radio links present one option for rural broadband where population is sparse and many of the existing technologies such as optical fiber or broadband via DSL are not economical due to rugged/mountainous terrain. In this paper, we present a broadband test bed running in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, and discuss its feasibility for broadband access. In addition to a 5GHz network, the test-bed also provides an overlay UHF white space network sharing the same infrastructure. We argue that the proposed system is based on a network of energy self-sufficient radio relay nodes that makes it a robust and independent medium to support broadband communication in rural settings

A low cost and power efficient TV white space technology solution for future rural broadband access networks

Wireless radio links present one option for rural broadband where population is sparse and many of the existing technologies such as optical fiber or broadband via DSL are not economical due to rugged/mountainous terrain. In this paper, we present a broadband test bed running in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, which is based on a relay network of low-power and cost efficient base stations. In addition to a 5GHz network, the test-bed also provides an overlay UHF white space network sharing the same infrastructure. The low-power base stations forming the relay nodes are supplied by wind and solar energy, establishing a green technology with low requirements on planning permission. Overall, the system offers a robust and independent medium to support broadband communication in rural settings

UHF white space network for rural smart grid communications

We present a white space communications test bed running in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, and discuss its feasibility for smart grid communications. The network aims to serve communities that have great potential for distributed generation of electricity, by means of wind, water, and tidal power. However, smart grid applications such as remote meter reading and load balancing are impaired by the scarcity or lack of communications infrastructure in remote rural areas such as the Scottish Highlands and Islands. We argue that the proposed system is based on a network of energy self-sufficient radio relay nodes that make it a robust and independent medium to support smart grid communications in rural settings