MINNEAPOLIS, Minn., June 6 -- ADC and Infrared Communications Systems Inc. have successfully completed a laboratory trial demonstrating that digitized radio frequency (RF) signals can be transported via free-space optics. The application offers licensed wireless service providers a means to locate wireless coverage and capacity in areas where fiber is not currently available or in locations that present a legal hassle, the company said. It is also ideal for situations that do not justify a long-term capital investment, such as providing temporary coverage for major sporting events.
    "This use of technology should solve many issues when quick deployment is critical," said Jeff Quiram, president of ADC's Broadband Infrastructure Division. "Often, wireless carriers can't wait for fiber to be buried where they need coverage or it is cost prohibitive to do so. In addition, the regulatory approval process for adding new base stations to add or expand coverage can be extremely difficult. ADC's patented digitized optical RF transport coupled with free-space optics will allow carriers to achieve their coverage goals faster and without the legal delays often associated with regulatory approval of new sites or burying of fiber."