Cellular Bridge Supports Hybrid Wireless Data Communication Capabilities

July 12, 2012
FreeWave Technologies has introduced its new Cellular Bridge solution.

FreeWave Technologies has introduced its new Cellular Bridge solution. The latest offering by FreeWave allows customers to deploy hybrid wireless networks that combine a FreeWave radio with a cellular modem to facilitate in the reduction of infrastructure costs, connection fees to the cellular network, and ease the ability to deploy a radio network more quickly when it’s in a new development situation.

“We are seeing an increased demand for hybrid network solutions for a variety of reasons, including new field development, reduced infrastructure and retrofit deployment,” said Craig Held, product manager at FreeWave Technologies. “With this solution, we now can reduce costly monthly cellular fees and our customers have flexibility in customizing their networks to ensure both reliable communication and cost savings.”

The Cellular Bridge combines Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) and Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM)-based technologies for SIM and non-SIM based cellular systems, and proprietary radios at 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz. It can act as a “tower replacement module” by adding a cellular connection to help overcome line-of-sight issues. Additionally, the 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz wireless data radio technology allows for coverage in remote areas where cellular technology may not have a strong signal and also allows the customer to limit the number of cellular connections in retrofit deployments--- improving ROI and reducing operating costs. The Cellular Bridge also can be used as an alternative solution where repeater locations or higher antenna heights are not an option.

Key technical features of the Cellular Bridge include:

  • Wide input voltage range: 12 VDC to 24 VDC.
  • External RS232/RS485 serial port.
  • Terminal server ports provide access to configuration, data, diagnostics and external serial port.
  • Configuration is available on local serial port or over the Internet.
  • Compatibility with FreeWave’s diagnostics software.

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