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How we communicate with others

Mobile communications work by using low power radio waves necessary


to carry speech and data. When a call is made, the signal is handed
across a network of linked geographic areas called cells - hence the
term cellphone - until it reaches its destination.
A piece of equipment called a base station transmits signals from one
cell to the next, or to land-line networks. Each cell is the area that each
base station covers. Base stations are often called masts, towers or cellsites.

All about base stations


Base station sites come in a range of shapes and sizes and are essential
to making mobile phones work. They house radio transmitters and
receivers that pick up signals sent from your phone and transfer them
to your network operator, so that you can be connected.
Base stations receive signals from mobile phones at ground-level or in
buildings and send out signals that you receive as calls, messages, data
and other mobile services.
Their construction requires:
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Structure for mounting antennas


Antennas for exchanging signals
Electronic equipment for processing signals
Antennas are typically placed high above the ground to transmit and
receive signals between base stations. Masts and towers are often used
to increase height but you might also see antennas at the top of taller
buildings. In some situations, less visibly prominent base station designs
may be used.

Different situations, different designs


There are three main types of base station:
Masts or cell-sites

Tall structures that provide the main network coverage. Free-standing


masts may be placed at the road-side, in open spaces or wooded areas.
Existing buildings are also used so that new construction work is not
always needed. Where possible, the visual and environmental impact is
limited by slim-line designs, and by trying to make them blend in with
the surroundings by painting them, or carefully placing them on existing
structures or among trees.
Microcells
Smaller installations that provide extra capacity and fill in gaps in
network coverage. They may be incorporated as building features, or
fitted to street-lighting posts or other street features. The visual impact
of antennas can be reduced by integrating them with an existing
structure.
Other base stations
Small base stations are normally used inside buildings, transport
terminals or shopping centers. They use very low power levels, and
boost reception where coverage is poor or where there are large
numbers of users. Differences in operation mean that 3G networks will
need more base stations that are closer to each other, but typically with
smaller antennas.
Location, location, location
So, where do mobile communications transmitters get located? Three
main factors affect the positioning of base station sites:
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Coverage - the area that a base station can service


Capacity - the level of user demand for service within an area
Environment - how a site might affect its surroundings
Each of these is affected by a number of other factors:
Range
Using your phone nearer a base station typically needs a lower signal
strength, helping to prolong battery life and reducing radio interference
with neighbouring network cells.
Distance

The farther you move away from a transmitter, the weaker the signal.
Signals are not more intense directly beneath a transmitter, as some
people may believe. Radio waves travel outwards from antennas, rather
than upwards and downwards. This is why buildings or trees can
obstruct the signals.
Landscape
Environmental features such as hills and trees reduce the strength of
radio signals. Towers located on top of hills help boost coverage in such
situations.
Population
More base stations are needed in towns and cities, where there are
more concentrated numbers of mobile phone users. When base stations
are needed closer together, they operate on lower power. All mobile
phone signals are controlled and regulated so that they do not interfere
with emergency service communications, or TV and radio broadcasting.
Who decides?
Different countries have different regulations and conventions for
deciding the location of base stations. As a general guide, these are the
main groups who would have a say.
Operators/Carriers
Network operators carefully plan where to site base stations. They
need a broad understanding of the properties of radio waves,
legislation and public attitudes towards mobile communications.
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Operators try to share sites where possible. This can help them
ensure that the number and height of masts within a local area best
meets the needs of the community. Differences between networks
mean this is not always possible.
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Authorities
Local governments and planning authorities are often involved in
decisions. It is important for the authorities and operators to cooperate closely together.
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Site owners
Many sites are placed on leased sites in cooperation with the property
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owners . Property owners will normally require clear assurances on the


safety and security of the site.
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... and you.
Like water and electricity supplies, mobile communications is a utility
provided for the common good. The mobile network industry is
encouraged to consult people who live, work or travel near a base
station site. And you can normally express your views in a number of
ways, helping to ensure that this service is provided in the best way.

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