Global WiFi technology provider, Ruckus Wireless has entered the South African market and is driving smart WiFi systems to broadband operators and enterprises.
Although Ruckus Wireless started its South African operations in 2010, it was only last month that the telco opened its regional offices, ready to engage with the local market.
Michael Fletcher, Ruckus Wireless sales director, says the move will expand the company's footprint in Africa, particularly where wireless connectivity is prevalent. “WiFi presents an attractive option and complimentary technology for [mobile] operators looking to scale capacity, efficiency and [the] footprint of their existing macro networks.”
Fletcher explains that many different approaches have been made to smart antenna technology in the past; however, high cost and complexity inhibited the potential of this technology to offer reliable, high-quality WiFi.
He says Ruckus Wireless' patented BeamFlex technology is based on a large number of small and inexpensive antenna elements, which are digitally switched against a conventional, off-the-shelf WiFi chipset.
Unlike omni-directional antennas that radiate signals in all directions, BeamFlex directs energy towards the best path to the receiving device. It works by searching for the best signal quality, improves WiFi signal strength and expands WiFi coverage. It also minimises interference from nearby networks and devices.
Fletcher says spectrum licences, long lead times and complex configuration are not required for mobile operators who need the solution.
Arthur Goldstuck, MD of World Wide Worx, says: “Reliability and quality of WiFi depends on the backhaul connectivity. It's more a question of what technology makes more sense. It makes the most sense to use WiFi on-premise or in any environment that provides WiFi at no additional cost, and it makes sense in 3G where there is no WiFi.”
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