OBAN: Open broadband access network

• Research unit: EU RFP
• Project number: 03.0619

Key words (English)

Open access network; B3G; WLAN; UMTS; DSL

Alternative project number (English)

EU project number: 001889

Research programs (English)

EU-programme: 6. Frame Research Programme - 1.2 Communications technologies

Short description (English)

See abstract

Abstract (English)

The OBAN project addresses an innovative approach to establish a broadband mobile network in line with present B3G visions. The concept is based on an Open Access Network (OAN) approach such that private wireless LANs and broadband access lines are made available for public use. Private users continue to use their wireless LAN as before, while public users can access and maintain communication via these access points. Public and private users therefore share the capacity of private wireless LANs and access lines. It is assumed that the majority of private homes in a few years will have access to a broadband network over ADSL, VDSL, fibre, cable, radio, etc. and that wireless technology will be used for the in-house communication of both residential and business users. In urban areas, such privately owned micro-base stations will provide continuous radio coverage, allowing users to roam seamlessly through the landscape while maintaining their communication sessions. In comparison with a conventional cellular mobile network consisting of a limited number of optimally located out- door base stations and antenna masts, the OBAN network will consist of a much higher number of randomly located micro- base stations. To realise the concept, existing protocols and mechanisms will have to undergo fundamental .improvements. Accordingly, the following sub-objectives have been identified:
1) to develop/adapt access control and security mechanisms,
2) to develop/adapt appropriate mobility functionalities,
3) to develop/adapt appropriate QoS mechanisms,
4) to explore relevant legal and regulatory issue,
5) to explore/simulate the potential network coverage.
In a later stage of the project, integration with UMTS will be addressed. This will help ensure continuity of service where gaps occur in Open Access Network coverage occur.

References in databases (English)

Swiss Database: Euro-DB of the
State Secretariat for Education and Research
Hallwylstrasse 4
CH-3003 Berne, Switzerland
Tel. [phone]
Swiss Project-Number: 03.0619