New Industry Products

Remote Combiner Powers Small-Cell Telecom System Networks

September 23, 2014 by Jeff Shepard

Creating a first-of-its-kind solution to deliver consistent and reliable power to dozens of cellular communications nodes spread across heavily populated venues, such as a stadium or campus, GE today introduced its new Power Express Remote Combiner. GE's Remote Combiner and line of Power Express NEC Class 2 distribution systems improve wireless capacity and service by ensuring that even the most remote small-cellular (small-cell) communications node on the network receives enough power to handle peak voice and data requirements.

As part of GE’s Power Express system, the new Remote Combiner provides power to non-Class 2 loads on the network by combining up to eight discrete Class 2 power circuits to deliver reliable, bulk -48-Vdc power. This approach also ensures power circuits are not connected in parallel, conforming to National Electric Code (NEC) requirements for Class 2 power systems.

Conventional approaches to providing wireless service are not effective at providing high-bandwidth data services in densely populated yet small venues such as office buildings, convention centers, campuses or sports facilities. By deploying a DAS or small-cell overlay in the venue, telecommunications carriers are able to expand the bandwidth capacity of the network, enhancing users’ experience on-site.

Small-cell/DAS communications nodes, which send and receive wireless signals, can be powered by low-voltage NEC Class 2 100-VA circuits. The cabling for Class 2 power circuits, similar to Class 2 data circuits for large area networks (LANs) or USB cables, can be deployed in a data-cable raceway instead of a separate electrical conduit, reducing material and installation times and costs. This means that if a hybrid/fiber power cable is deployed, power and data can be delivered in one step, speeding deployment of the high-bandwidth network.

“The challenge is that some remote nodes cannot accommodate Class 2 power because they need more power or the nodes are not configured to handle multiple, discrete Class 2 power feeds,” said Terrell Moorer, product line manager, GE’s Critical Power business. “The Power Express Remote Combiner can bundle up to eight Class 2 power circuits to deliver a reliable, bulk -48-Vdc power on any small-cell/DAS node regardless of location or power requirement.”