Range Networks Brings Mobile Access to Polar Research Facility

SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Range Networks, the leading U.S. provider of commercial open source cellular systems and creator of the OpenBTS software project, today announced the deployment of a cellular network in Antarctica. This deployment extends the existing communications network of an Australian Antarctic station, to provide cellular communications in one of the most remote and challenging regions in the world.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130320/MM81007LOGO)

NEWS FACTS:

• Complete Cellular Coverage: By leveraging Range Networks open-source software (OpenBTS) and its 5150 base station, a unified private network was created connecting 400 mobile and 800 desktop phones. The network is currently deployed on an island research station and provides the ability for local and global calls and SMS.
• Increased Safety: The Range Networks solution allows for local switching, making communication available even if satellite backhaul is unavailable.
• Reduced Cost and Complexity: Extreme conditions in Antarctica make third-party repair nearly impossible. Functioning as a self-contained network, the new cellular network is managed entirely by existing personnel, reducing the associated costs for equipment, power and maintenance.
• Future Plans: Due to its simplicity and robustness, the network will be expanded to include four additional Range Networks 5150 base stations, connecting three research stations and a research vessel through an existing VoIP system. When completed, the system will provide research teams with cell phone coverage over an operational area of 150 km².
• Maritime Use: A Range Networks base station will be installed onboard a steel-hulled research vessel serving roughly 110 crewmembers and onboard personnel. Satellite backhaul will enable the crew to communicate with colleagues onboard or thousands of kilometers away.

SUPPORTING QUOTES:

Harvind Samra, CTO, Range Networks and co-inventor of the OpenBTS Project said:
"We are pleased to assist onsite agency personnel to enable communication in an environment that experiences extreme conditions and unreliable communications. By replacing traditional core network infrastructure we have significantly reduced the associated costs for equipment, power and maintenance, allowing these teams to spend more resources on critical scientific research." 

About Range Networks
Range Networks is the future of cellular networks. Founded by the inventors of OpenBTS, the Company provides the only commercial open source cellular system. Range Networks' products are made in the U.S.A., and are simple to deploy and manage at a fraction of the cost of alternative solutions. Based on open standards, Range Networks provides connectivity to existing 2G/3G and 4G networks to rural communities, remote outposts and emergency crews. Additional information is available at: www.rangenetworks.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kim Dearborn
Nadel Phelan, Inc.
+1-831-440-2407
[email protected]

SOURCE Range Networks