Professor Ramsdale was also party to the oral evidence presented to the Group by the Federation of Electronics Industries. Professor Ramsdale gave a presentation describing existing mobile phone networks and foreseeable future technological developments.
Networks consist of a series of hexagonal cells served by tri-sectored base stations.
Cells covering densely populated areas tend to be smaller, and when usage within a cell starts to approach the limit of capacity the operator will split the cell, resulting in an increase in the number of base stations, but a decrease in the power radiated from each site. Base Stations Traditional base stations have six antennas covering the three sectors, although the introduction of flat-panel antennas resulted in a requirement for only three antennas, which can often be packaged into a single tube. It is likely that with continued improvements in design, it will be possible to mount new antennas for third generation phones in existing tubes. Although antennas are often mounted on purpose-built masts, where possible they are mounted on or in existing structures such as tall buildings, churches, or water towers. The process of site selection is influenced by a number of factors.