An ADTRAN White Paper

Understanding the
Benefits of License-free
Spread Spectrum
Fixed Wireless
Glossary of Terms
Bandwidth – The size of the frequency range that
a transmission signal occupies. Spread spectrum
signals can occupy up to 26 MHz in the 902-928 MHz
frequency band.

Direct Sequence – A spread spectrum wireless

coding method that spreads the transmitted signal
over a given frequency range.

FCC (Federal Communications Commission) – A

federal agency in charge of regulating the operation
of Radio Frequency (RF) equipment.

Frequency Hopping – A spread spectrum technique uti-

lized for lower bandwidth microwave radio applications.

Interference – The situation that occurs when RF

signals are blocked by physical barriers in the environ-
ment or by collisions of RF signals existing within the
same frequency band.

ISM (Industrial, Scientific, Medical) – License-free

frequency bands at 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz for
spread spectrum radio transmissions via FCC Part 15.247.

LMDS (Local Multipoint Distribution Service) – A

licensed wireless local loop technology.

MMDS (Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Service) –

A licensed wireless local loop technology originally
intended for cable television signal distribution.

NEBS (Network Equipment Building Standards) –

Performance and safety requirements developed by
Bellcore and typically required by carriers for
equipment installed in network switching offices.

RF (Radio Frequency) – An electromagnetic frequency

band with wavelengths measuring between 500 KHz
and 300 GHz, utilized for microwave radio transmissions.

Spread Spectrum – A RF transmission technology

originally designed for secure military communications
that spreads a transmitted signal over a wider band-
width than the information bandwidth occupies.
 Understanding the
Benefits of License-free
Spread Spectrum
Fixed Wireless
What is the RF spectrum?
I n order to understand wireless technology, a
basic understanding of the Radio Frequency
(RF) spectrum is required. The RF spectrum is part
of the electromagnetic spectrum in which a variety
of commonly used devices including televisions, AM
and FM radios, microwaves, cell phones, and pagers
By utilizing operate. For years, microwave radio transmissions
pseudo-random have been used in the telecommunications industry
codes for bandwidth for transport of point-to-point data. These point-to-
spreading, spread point information transmissions occur through
spectrum signals carrier signals. A carrier signal is an electromagnetic
are not only harder signal centered around a particular frequency. Micro-
to demodulate wave carrier signals are typically relatively short in
or decode, but wavelength and can transmit information through
receivers must also various modulation methods. In the RF spectrum,
mimic the exact the specific frequency range in which a device oper-
pseudo-random ates defines where a RF signal will be transmitted
code for and received. Cell phones, for example, typically
demodulation. operate at 800 MHz. The RF spectrum in which these
carrier transmissions occur is subject to regulation in
the United States by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC), and globally via the
International Telecommunications Union. Within
the RF spectrum, not all frequencies are subject to
licensing requirements. License-free bands include
the Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) band —
the most widely used license-free frequency band —
and the Unlicensed National Information
Infrastructure (U-NII) Band.
According to 2001 market analyst reports, license-
free equipment is more widely deployed than licensed
Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Services
(MMDS) and Local Multipoint Distribution Services
(LMDS) combined. License-free frequencies are ideal
because they require no access fee by the user.
Within the license-free ISM band, three frequency
ranges are authorized by the FCC and are widely
used today for wireless devices including telecommu-
nications equipment. Authorized for license-free
commercial use in 1985 by the FCC, these three
frequency bands are at 902-928 MHz (for domestic
use only), 2400 MHz, and 5800 MHz. Within the
ISM bands, only spread spectrum RF transmissions
are currently allowed. Today, commercial spread
spectrum telecommunications equipment must be
certified to operate license-free under Title 47 of the
Code of Federal Regulations, FCC Part 15.247.
ISM Frequency Bands
902-928 MHz
2.4 – 2.4835 GHz
5.725-5.850 GHz
U-NII Frequency Bands
5.150 – 5.350 GHz
5.725 – 5.825 GHz
What is spread spectrum?
Spread spectrum technology has inherent noise and
interference resistance in comparison to traditional
narrow-band radio transmission technologies.
Spread spectrum is called a “wide-band RF technolo-
gy”. It takes a narrow-band signal or data input and
distributes the data signal’s input over a broader fre-
quency range using one of two coding implementa-
tions, Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS)
or Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS). Once
the signal is spread and transmitted it must then be
An ADTRAN White Paper • 30
 reassembled at the receiver. The FHSS coding method
is used primarily for lower data rate applications.
DSSS is typically used in fixed wireless networks.
DSSS systems utilize a longer and higher speed binary
code sequence to directly modulate the carrier signal
and set the transmitted RF bandwidth at a wider
interval than the originally transmitted data.
By utilizing pseudo-random codes for bandwidth
spreading, spread spectrum signals are not only hard-
er to decode, but receivers must also mimic the exact
pseudo-random code for demodulation to take place.
New spread Since this spreading intentionally creates signals that
spectrum are much wider than the original information that is
transmission carried over the spread spectrum band, signals appear
radios offer noise-like. This creates inherent security benefits that
carrier class make spread spectrum technology highly appealing
reliable reception. for digital transmissions. Essentially, a spread spec-
trum information signal is made to look like random
noise so that it is harder to detect and so that the
information within the medium is protected from
interference. For this reason, spread spectrum
technology was originally developed for use in secure
military communications.
Under FCC Part 15.247, license-free users must
meet spread spectrum transmission regulations
including maximum transmit power regulated in the
2.4GHz ISM band at 1 watt. Spread spectrum allows
for a reduced power density in a given bandwidth
with no reduction in total power. These power
requirements allow spread spectrum and highly pro-
liferated narrowband signals to occupy the same fre-
quency band without interference. In turn, many
spread spectrum transmission products place an
emphasis on reliable reception through system
design, due to the low-transmit power requirement.
Why wireless instead of wireline?
Technological advances, the growth of Internet
requirements for additional bandwidth, demand for
rapid deployment, and the creation of license-free
14 • Understanding the Benefits of License-free Spread Spectrum Wireless
frequency bands have fueled growth in the wireless
voice and data market. Over the past decade, much
of the growth in the wireless marketplace has been
in the mobile wireless segment. In general, wireless
has traditionally been considered as a medium for
voice-only transmissions. Explosive growth in the cel-
lular phone industry has increased the need for fixed
wireless PCS/Cellular backhaul networks for point-
to-point as well as point-to-multipoint applications.
With this growth in the respective subscriber cus-
tomer base, wireless carriers are finding the need for
expansion of their network infrastructure. Addition-
ally, the expansion of the Internet has fueled the
growth in Small- to Medium-size Enterprise (SME)
networks. These expanding networks create the need
for a fixed connectivity solution for access to the
corporate network, the Internet, and the Public
Switched Telephone Network for voice connectivity.
Today, fixed wireless networks are outpacing
traditional wireline voice and data solutions for the
SME market in terms of time to market, quality of
voice and data transmission, and cost. According to
a 2000 industry report, fixed broadband wireless is
predicted to be at least a $3.5 billion market by year-
end 2001 with growth expected to be upward of 40%
in subsequent years. Additionally, availability of the
license-free ISM band and its use of spread spectrum
technology offers carriers and enterprise users the
benefit of an inherently secure and highly reliable
communications system.
The demand for bandwidth and the problems
associated with interconnecting multiple locations has
presented significant challenges for network adminis-
trators and carriers striving to reach rural and remote
locations with limited access to high-speed wireline
technologies. Demand for bandwidth, along with the
deregulation in the service provider marketplace,
offers increased competition for integrated communi-
cations providers such as Incumbent Local Exchange
Carriers (ILECs), Interexchange Carriers (IXCs),
Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLECs), and
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to meet the growing
bandwidth needs of existing and previously unreach-
able customers. Augmented service offerings, includ-
ing high-speed fixed wireless solutions, provide an
attractive and viable alternative to DSL and cable for
those hard to reach or underserved customers.
Key Benefits and Applications of
License-free Spread Spectrum Fixed
Wireless Solutions
License-free wireless links can easily replace or
augment wireline solutions. These wireless alterna-
tives can operate essentially as a wireline T1 circuit
with full utilization of 1.544 Mbps or more of voice
and data bandwidth. Wireless connectivity solutions
are highly economical and avoid the hassle of licens-
ing coordination or wait times often associated with
wireline solutions. Enterprise users can rapidly
deploy wireless networks with the flexibility for quick
expansion as bandwidth requirements increase.
Fixed, point-to-point wireless solutions offer all
of the benefits of point-to-point T1 data circuits with
the same flexibility of channel assignment provided
by the leased lines. Crossing LATAs (Local Access
Transport Areas) or eliminating the involvement of
multiple carriers for multisite connectivity can be
easily overcome with a user-controlled wireless solu-
tion. This also removes the reliance on service
providers for circuit turn-up and design.
Applications for license-free wireless solutions are
numerous. As requirements change with the evolution
of today’s telecommunications networks, these appli-
cations continue to grow. Last-mile local loop access
is a necessity for those locations previously unreach-
able due to treacherous terrain or other obstacles,
right of way restrictions, areas limited by the reach of
DSL, and/or the expense of trenching for fiber net-
works. There is a vast array of target vertical markets
and key applications where a reliable license-free
spread spectrum fixed wireless solution is advanta-
geous. Some of these are briefly highlighted below.
Key Vertical Markets and Applications for
License-free Spread Spectrum Fixed Wireless
■ Cellular/PCS backhaul and interconnection
of base stations
■ Last-mile local loop access
Availability of the
■ Overcoming rough terrain
license-free ISM
■ Emergency restoration facilities
band and its required
■ Right-of-way restrictions
utilization of spread
■ Back-up facilities for existing wireline spectrum technology
■ Islands, pipeline, and other shore-to-land offers carriers and
applications enterprise users
■ Underserved or previously unreachable the benefit of an
locations inherently secure
■ Transportation and railroad or railway and highly reliable
connectivity communications
■ Utilities and government facilities system.
■ Banks and financial institutions
■ Hospitals and healthcare-to-clinic
connectivity
■ Educational facilities, universities, and
other private networks
■ Industrial, manufacturing facilities, and
office parks
■ DSL, cable, or fiber alternative
The associated benefits of a license-free wireless
frequency band, such as the ISM band, in which
spread spectrum technologies are utilized, are as
numerous as the applications for which the technolo-
gy may be employed. These networks offer promising
opportunities for both enterprise users and carriers
targeting the emerging SME business market through
competitive service offerings. Fixed wireless access
networks provide the advantage of fast installation
with the ability for users to have availability of net-
work services as soon as installation is complete.
An ADTRAN White Paper • 5
 Additional benefits include:
■ No requirement for site licensing and
coordination
■ Hassle-free installation
■ Economical connectivity
Applications for ■ Rapid equipment installation and network
license-free deployment
wireless solutions ■ Ultimate network configuration and control
are on the rise as
■ Easily upgradable, no-wait circuit migration
network require-
ments evolve ■ High bandwidth voice and data connectivity
with the growth
■ Reliability, network security, interference immu-
and migration of
nity, and operational benefits of spread spectrum
today’s expansive
technology
telecommunications
■ Wireline quality of service
networks.
■ Expedited service and seamless connection of
remote locations without the need for wireline
infrastructure
■ Elimination of recurring monthly service fees
and equipment charges
Equipment Offerings for License-free
Spread Spectrum Fixed Wireless
The opportunities afforded by the emerging fixed
broadband wireless market may only be realized by
investing in reliable product offerings. Although
license-free deployment may be implemented quickly,
it should be noted that selecting an appropriate
connectivity product requires some RF experience.
Established wireless equipment vendors with a suite
of network products as well as expertise in the area of
T1 voice and data connectivity are poised to provide
the most reliable equipment, training, and service
for customers seeking a license-free wireless
connectivity solution.
Today, market-proven license-free wireless
equipment options are available for both point-to-
6 • Understanding the Benefits of License-free Spread Spectrum Wireless
point and point-to-multipoint applications. Product
offerings include carrier class T1 connectivity solu-
tions for point-to-point broadband wireless in the
SME market and for carriers investing in wireless
infrastructure and network backhaul. Equipment
providers offering carrier class NEBS-compliant
hardware and both AC and DC powering options
provide added advantages and peace-of-mind for
carriers and enterprise customers who are looking
for reliable and flexible connectivity solutions.
The ability to deliver multiple T1s, with support
for complementary voice and data connectivity
devices, is essential for an end-to-end system solution.
Equipment manufacturers targeting the license-free
point-to-point spread spectrum wireless market have
product offerings consisting of a baseband processing
component along with an indoor or outdoor radio
frequency converter. Consideration should be given to
equipment vendors with offerings of rack-mountable
as well as mast-mountable hermetically sealed,
environmentally protected outdoor radio frequency
conversion units to allow for flexible system design.
Point-to-point spread spectrum microwave radios
can support line-of-sight distances upward of 30
miles. Wireless equipment solutions that offer integral
IP routing and the ability to connect existing phone
systems, such as Private Branch Exchange (PBX)
devices, provide high-speed toll-quality digital voice
and data connectivity essential for the SME. IP routing
provides more flexibility than bridging in manage-
ment and configuration of data networks. As a data
network expands, routing allows the creation of addi-
tional subnetworks that help alleviate local congestion.
End-to-end Solutions
End-to-end solutions can be utilized to complement
wireless connectivity for seamless point-to-point net-
working applications. Deployment of wireless access
solutions can be enhanced by selecting a communica-
tion provider that offers a total system solution. These
vendors, in addition to providing wireless equipment,
also offer a complete line of customer presmise
equipment including CSU/DSUs, multiplexers and
integrated access devices. This equipment should pro-
vide features for both analog and digital voice as well
as IP bridging and routing. Through careful link
planning and equipment selection, it is possible to
achieve wireline-class service offerings using license-
free spread spectrum wireless equipment. This tech-
nology can be used to address the SME market for
site-to-multisite or private network connectivity. The
carrier market may utilize this capability for infra-
structure and backhaul networks or to offer competi-
tive services for augmenting wireline, DSL, or cable.
Selecting an equipment vendor that offers the
option for hot-standby protection switching in the
event of RF link failure along with a suite of CPE
devices to supplement the wireless connectivity prod-
uct offering, should also be considered. The ability to
offer products that allow multi-T1 connectivity solu-
tions, provide toll-quality voice, and include LAN-to-
LAN extension through bridging and routing is a key
differentiator in vendor offerings.
Vendors offering certification training in RF
technologies, an established reseller program and
technical support team, nationwide service programs
for installation and maintenance, and expertise in
wireline voice and data technologies offer the most
risk-free investment in next-generation wireless net-
work connectivity. Customers investing in end-to-end
wireless solutions from this type of vendor can do so
with confidence.
As wireless solutions continue to increase in pop-
ularity as a primary access technology, vendors with
extensive industry experience stand to offer key pric-
ing and technology advantages as they differentiate
themselves in this marketplace. Value-added vendors
should offer the following:
■ Wide range of carrier class wireless access
products
■ NEBS-compliant, AC and DC powered devices
■ Full-set of value-added networking
equipment offerings
■ Established support, training, and service
programs
■ Economical equipment offerings with end-to-
end system solutions
Conclusion
The services available for spread-spectrum wireless
applications are virtually unlimited. Although the
lack of licensing requirements for the ISM band
implies ease of installation and minimal capital out-
lay, it by no means implies lack of regulatory controls.
Requirements for spread spectrum communications
offer guidelines by which equipment vendors and
operators must abide, providing for easy access to the
space with the benefits of inherent security and
interference protection.
The markets where wireless communications
solutions can complement corporate networks and
carrier service offerings are also unlimited. The open-
ing of the license-free frequency bands by the FCC
created a new world for telecommunications provi-
ders and customers around the globe, resulting in a
growing market for wire-free service offerings for
both new and existing customer service areas.
An ADTRAN White Paper • 7
 About ADTRAN
ADTRAN, Inc. is an established supplier of advanced
transmission products for today’s expansive telecommu-
nications networks. Widely deployed in carrier, CLEC,
enterprise, and global networks worldwide, ADTRAN
products support all major digital technologies including
fiber, T3, T1, E1, wireless T1/E1, ATM, Frame Relay,
VPN, SHDSL, SDSL, HDSL, HDSL2, ISDN, and DDS.
According to Gartner/Dataquest and IDC, ADTRAN
has gained the leading market position in enterprise
integrated access devices and HDSL, while maintaining
its leadership position for the fourth year in a row in T1
and subrate DSU/CSUs, Frame Relay/DDS extension,
and ISDN extension. ADTRAN equipment serves the
major Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers, interexchange
carriers, ISPs, Competitive Local Exchange Carriers,
international service providers, public and private enter-
prises, and original equipment manufacturers.

ADTRAN, Inc.
901 Explorer Boulevard
Huntsville, Alabama 35806
P.O. Box 140000
Huntsville, Alabama 35814-4000

800 9ADTRAN 256 963-8000 voice

256 963-8004 fax
256 963-8200 fax back
info@adtran.com e-mail
www.adtran.com web site

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Business Enterprises (WBE) and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBE) whenever
possible and practical for procurements supporting ADTRAN and our customers.

© 2001 ADTRAN, Inc. All rights reserved. ADTRAN is a registered trademark of ADTRAN, Inc.
All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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