What Is a Mobile Base Station (COW) and What Does It Do?
Today, with increased mobility and frequent relocation, people's need for GSM signals for communication has expanded. The cost of fixed base stations and the difficulty of building them in urban areas have led to the demand for mobile base stations. The versatile and proactive use of mobile base stations is preferred as they offer fast and flexible solutions for communication needs. So, what is a mobile base station, what are its types, and what does it do?
What Is a Mobile Base Station (COW)?
A cell on wheels (COW) is a portable cellular telecommunications solution that provides temporary network and wireless coverage where the signal is minimal, compromised, or unavailable. The mobile base station expands cellular networks to provide uninterrupted service to increased mobile traffic at fairs, sporting events, concerts, natural disasters and emergencies.
In Which Areas Is Mobile Base Station Used?
Mobile base stations are used to provide expanded cellular network coverage for short-term and urgent demands in areas where coverage is minimal or non-existent, or where infrastructure is compromised due to a disaster, and during special events like sports events, stadiums, concerts, large conferences, or in regions where coverage is necessary. For instance, in the United States, after the September 11 attacks, COWs (Cells on Wheels) were utilized to maintain communication under emergency conditions.
Additionally, telecommunications companies can use mobile base stations to expand coverage at a much lower cost, thereby avoiding high expenses. Moreover, in areas where coverage is needed but cannot be established on state or military land, mobile base stations can be used to meet this demand.
What are the Types of Mobile Base Station (COW)?
Mobile base stations vary according to the need and the size of the coverage area. The most well-known types include panel vans, truck-mounted cabins, and caravan cabins. Panel vans are generally used for short-term events and in environments with large crowds. The short setup time and the ability to be safely transported within city limits make panel vans more popular.
Truck-mounted cabins, on the other hand, are designed for longer-term use and are preferred in situations where longer distances need to be covered. They are especially effective during natural disasters, as their high capacity ensures the smooth operation of GSM networks. The long antennas mounted on the trucks also help to expand the coverage area.
What are the Advantages of Using a Mobile Base Station?
The use of mobile base stations offers several advantages in terms of time efficiency, improved service quality, and security:
- Portability: Mobile base stations provide ease of use in temporary locations or remote areas due to their portability.
- Increased Capacity: They offer additional capacity for cellular data and voice services, helping to prevent network congestion, especially in densely populated areas.
- Versatility: They can be equipped with different antennas and equipment to support various wireless technologies and internet infrastructures.
- Adaptability: In locations where logistical challenges or environmental conditions make it difficult to install permanent base stations, mobile base stations can be deployed instead.
- Emergency Response: They can be quickly set up during disasters and emergencies to maintain communication and coordination.
- Remote Management: Mobile base stations are equipped with advanced software systems that allow for remote control and management.
Mikrolink Offers Mobile BTS (COW) Solutions Tailored to Customer Requirements
Mikrolink, with nearly a quarter-century of experience, offers flexible and innovative Mobile BTS (Cell on Wheels - COW) solutions to mobile operators, ensuring uninterrupted communication. Mikrolink provides cost-effective and rapid solutions to meet the immediate needs of mobile users during emergencies, concerts, or in areas with weak coverage. Their range of products includes panel vans, truck-mounted cabins, tower systems on caravan vehicles, and towable caravan units.
Renowned for its operations that comply with ISG standards in Turkey and globally, Mikrolink further demonstrated its expertise by serving as the official telecommunications sponsor for the 2022 Qatar World Cup, providing mobile base station services.