Smart antennas for broadband wireless access

Smart antennas enable space division multiple access, that is they manage access to a network by accounting for where users are spatially and using antenna technology to better isolate signals from noise and interference. For mobile systems, the benefits are increased capacity from existing cell sites, maximum return on infrastructure investment, and improved network efficiency and performance. In mobile systems, all the benefits for base-to-mobile and mobile-to-base paths occur as a result of smart antennas being installed at the base site. For fixed wireless systems, smart antennas are practical for both the base station and the remote station (RS). This paper discusses the increase in throughput that is realized by using smart antenna technology in a fixed wireless system. The management of packet transmission and reception, a key component of maximizing capacity, is described. Also included is a discussion of the user benefits and capacity impact of smart antennas at a remote station.