초록 ▼

An improved modular masthead for use in cellular communications networks is described. The masthead unit includes a power amplifier, a duplexer and a local power supply that supplies the power amplifier. The power amplifier is arranged to amplify outgoing communication signals received from a base s

An improved modular masthead for use in cellular communications networks is described. The masthead unit includes a power amplifier, a duplexer and a local power supply that supplies the power amplifier. The power amplifier is arranged to amplify outgoing communication signals received from a base station. In a preferred embodiment, the masthead also includes a low noise amplifier for amplifying incoming communication signals and passing the amplified incoming communication signals to an associated base station. With this arrangement, the masthead forms a modular unit that is distinct from the base station such that the modular masthead may be replaced independently of the base station. With this arrangement the range of a cell within a cellular network may be changed by simply swapping an existing masthead unit with a second masthead unit having a different power supply thereon and making software changes in the system. Thus, the range of the cell within the cellular network may be changed without changing any hardware in the base station.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A modular masthead for use in a cellular communications network including a mobile switching center, a base station controller, a base station and an antenna, wherein the mobile switching center communicates with the base station controller, the base station controller

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A modular masthead for use in a cellular communications network including a mobile switching center, a base station controller, a base station and an antenna, wherein the mobile switching center communicates with the base station controller, the base station controller communicates with the base station and the base station transmits communication signals to the antenna for transmission, the modular masthead being a separate unit from the base station that is configured for insertion in a communications path between the base station and the antenna, wherein the modular masthead is arranged to communicate with the antenna via an antenna line and to communicate with the base station via distinct transmission and receiver lines, the modular masthead comprising:a power amplifier arranged to amplify the power of outgoing communication signals received from the base station via the transmission line, and to output a power amplified transmit signal;a duplexer configured for electrical communication with the antenna via the antenna line, the duplexer being arranged to,receive the power amplified transmit signal from the power amplifier and output the power amplified transmit signal to the antenna line, andreceive incoming communication signals from the antenna line and output the received incoming communication signals on the receiver line that is distinct from the transmission line; anda power supply for supplying power to the power amplifier; andwhereby the modular masthead forms a modular unit that is distinct from the base station such that the modular masthead may be replaced independently of the base station.