CommScope, a global leader in infrastructure solutions for communications networks, has supplied the first active antennas in use in an LTE network field trial being conducted by a prominent North American wireless network operator.

Active antennas are considered the next stage in the evolution of cellular site architecture, in which the radio is integrated into the antenna and the radio functionality is distributed across the antenna elements.  This digital architecture reduces the need for certain cell site equipment, which can reduce energy consumption, site maintenance and leasing costs. 

“We believe this trial is a significant step toward the eventual wide-spread deployment of active antenna solutions in LTE networks,” said Kevin Linehan, vice president and chief technology officer for base station antennas, CommScope.  “we think CommScope is uniquely positioned to help wireless operators experience the many benefits of the world’s first digital, antenna-integrated radio system.” 

“CommScope has invested more than $1 billion in research and development over the past decade in order to help customers evolve to new technologies,” Linehan said.  “Our active antenna and fiber feeder solutions are examples of how that investment results in valuable intellectual property and delivers tremendous benefits to our customers and the industry.”