SDR Applications--Solving the Interference Issue

There's a saying in business--find the customer pain and then solve it. While it may be oversimplifying the case for building a business it's not a bad place to start. In the world of Software Defined Radio the corollary is find the interference and then solve it.

Solving interference in the wireless network seems to be one of the over arching themes for SDR companies today. If a technology can solve an interference issue, then there's a definite business opportunity for that technology. Governments around the world are trying to unify their networks to work with other countries and enable inter communications. This is another pain point that SDR could potentially solve.

Other applications include:

Ability to access spectrum during time of emergency.

Interfacing with non-public safety systems. The Minnesota bridge collapse is one example. Bystanders of that disaster could provide photos back to the public safety groups through the use of their cell phones giving first responders additional information.

-- Implementing lower cost broadband service in rural areas with little or no wireless infrastructure. Using SDR to reuse existing networks.

-- Expanding coverage indoors in large buildings through femtocells.

-- Managed access systems for prisons. These can capture cellphone calls and allow only legitimate calls to go through.

-- Assisting in harmonizing the regulatory treatment of satellite signals in countries around the world.

-- Providing backhaul for the satellite industry through broadband and mitigating wireless interference from Wimax systems.

These are just a few of the applications that SDR proponents hope to accomplish.

Best regards,

Hall T.