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WRAN wireless regional area network

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Wireless Regional Area Network (WRAN), also known as White Space Network (WSN), is a wireless communication network that operates in the TV White Space (TVWS) spectrum. TV White Spaces refer to the unused or underutilized frequency bands in the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) and Very High Frequency (VHF) bands, which were originally allocated for television broadcasting.

WRAN leverages these vacant frequency bands to provide wireless broadband connectivity over larger geographic areas, making it suitable for rural and remote areas where traditional wired broadband infrastructure is limited or not cost-effective to deploy.

Key Characteristics of WRAN:

  1. Use of TV White Spaces: WRAN utilizes the TV White Space frequencies, which are typically in the range of 470 MHz to 698 MHz in the UHF band. These frequency bands offer excellent propagation characteristics, enabling signals to travel over longer distances and penetrate obstacles like buildings and vegetation.
  2. Dynamic Spectrum Access: The availability of TV White Spaces varies depending on the location and time. WRAN devices incorporate dynamic spectrum access mechanisms that enable them to detect and use vacant TVWS channels without causing interference to licensed TV broadcasters or other primary users.
  3. Cognitive Radio Technology: WRAN devices often use cognitive radio technology, which allows them to sense the spectrum and adapt their transmission parameters, including frequency, power, and modulation, based on real-time spectrum conditions. Cognitive radio helps ensure efficient and interference-free use of the available TVWS spectrum.
  4. Long-Range Connectivity: WRAN technology provides extended coverage compared to traditional Wi-Fi networks. It can cover larger geographical areas, making it suitable for connecting remote communities, farms, and other underserved regions.
  5. High Data Rates: WRAN can offer relatively high data rates, making it capable of delivering broadband internet services to users in rural areas.
  6. Interoperability: WRAN devices are designed to adhere to standard regulations and guidelines set by regulatory authorities to ensure interoperability and coexistence with other wireless devices and services.

Applications of WRAN:

  1. Rural Connectivity: WRAN is particularly beneficial for connecting rural and remote communities where traditional wired broadband infrastructure is not economically viable.
  2. Internet of Things (IoT): WRAN can support low-power, long-range connectivity for IoT devices, enabling applications such as smart agriculture, environmental monitoring, and smart infrastructure in remote areas.
  3. Disaster Recovery and Emergency Communications: WRAN can serve as a reliable communication network in disaster-stricken areas where the traditional communication infrastructure has been damaged or disrupted.
  4. Public Access Networks: WRAN can be deployed as public access networks in parks, public squares, and other outdoor areas where providing wired connectivity is challenging.

Regulatory Considerations:

The utilization of TV White Spaces for WRAN is subject to regulatory guidelines and spectrum management policies set by the respective regulatory authorities in each country. To prevent interference with licensed TV broadcasters, WRAN devices must incorporate robust spectrum sensing and dynamic spectrum access mechanisms. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has established rules and regulations for the use of TV White Spaces.

Conclusion:

Wireless Regional Area Network (WRAN) is a wireless communication network that operates in the TV White Space spectrum. It leverages unused or underutilized frequency bands originally allocated for TV broadcasting to provide wireless broadband connectivity over larger geographical areas. WRAN is particularly valuable for connecting rural and remote communities and supporting various applications, including IoT, disaster recovery, and public access networks. By making efficient use of TV White Spaces, WRAN plays a significant role in expanding internet access and bridging the digital divide in underserved regions.