When are microwave links worthwhile?
Communication via microwave links is a transport technology and
serves in the first instance as a fixed data connection between digital network
nodes at any locations. Both individual links and complete networks of differing
dimensions are possible. Microwave links can be embedded in linear, star or ring
networks or a combination of all three. Even a combined construction with
differing transport technologies is possible.
In practice, microwave links are used most frequently by
mobile radio providers, who use them for connecting their base stations
cost-effectively in networks. But small, medium-sized and large companies of
non-telecommunication companies, scientific establishments and public
authorities use microwave links too, and for are a great number of different
purposes. The most common applications are for connections between IT and/or
telecommunication networks of a company with a number of locations or for
connections to servers and Internet gateways. Examples of microwave link users
for whom I have planned microwave links, a number of which links having been in
operation for many years, can be found in the gallery of this website.
Above all, microwave links compete with leased lines of
national telecommunication companies or other network operators. A cost-based
comparison of the alternatives can be made very easily.
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