CommScope has launched a new architecture for in-building wireless systems. The ION-E is a unified wireless infrastructure platform designed around IT-based structured cabling architecture, making it friendly to both wireless operators and business enterprises alike. The flexibility, scalability and simplicity of the system resolve the issues associated with rapidly changing indoor coverage and capacity demands.

The ION-E brings together licensed wireless and power plus Gigabit Ethernet for WiFi into one unified wireless network that can scale to building size and is technology and spectrum adaptive. Unlike any other offerings available today, it features multi-band, multi-operator and multi-technology capabilities and uses the standard IT structured cabling infrastructure common to most commercial buildings. The ION-E is currently available for operator trials in Europe and will be made available in other regions in the second half of 2014.

Morgan Kurk, senior vice president, Wireless, CommScope, says, “It combines the capability and flexibility of cloud RAN while making DAS simple and unifying the local area and wide area networks. This intelligent transport system can finally fulfill the promise of small cells.”

The ION-E simplifies implementation by using the structured cabling systems familiar to IT installers, along with providing a simple user interface for setup and configuration with minimal input.

Today’s modern buildings require flexibility to handle floor space layout changes, the relocation of users, or other changes that would require an extensive rework of the wireless system. As a multi-band, multi-operator and multi-technology platform, the ION-E employs a standard grid approach and supports on-demand software defined frequencies to flexibly adapt to changing requirements.

The ION-E platform easily scales to support buildings from 5,000 to 500,000 square meters. It is frequency agile and technology agnostic, eliminating the need for costly infrastructure and equipment upgrades.