Two major US carriers recently began noticing a decrease in network performance, dropped calls, and higher than normal churn rates. Troubleshooting at selected sites showed that both carriers had the same problem. In most cases, the worst performing antennas had been installed using poorly designed support systems. This, coupled with heavier loading and lighter weight structures, created unacceptable levels of twist and sway that skewed the antennas' beam patterns. Based on the findings, one carrier now suspects that as many as 1,000 additional sites may be under-performing due to poorly designed mounting systems.
Andrew was not entirely surprised by the findings. In fact, it is something we have anticipated for quite a while. As a result,our Universal Structural Support Solutions are uniquely designed, ensuring optimal performance and precision for microwave antennas.
Andrew's Universal Structural Support Solutions is a family of innovative support systems that provides the highest level of structural integrity for antennas mounted to virtually any tower, monopole, roof top structure, even water tank. It represents a significant departure from past antenna mounting solutions.
Leadership by Design
The designs of Andrew's Universal Structural Support Solutions are so thoroughly researched and engineered that the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) is working with Andrew to implement these same specifications, as well as to create a new set of industry standards for microwave antenna installation.
A Smarter Approach
For starters, our Universal Structural Support Solutions are the product of a totally new line of thinking, one that reinforces Andrew's position as an industry leader. Whereas other providers continue to design and fabricate antenna mounts based purely on price, our solutions are driven by engineering and performance. We know that any short-term CAPEX savings will be overshadowed by the long term OPEX costs of a poorly engineered mount.
Quality-Designed Antenna Mounts Lead to Better
Network Performance
Our unique designs not only completely support the antennas, they give the entire towers greater structural integrity. Less twist and sway means:
- Better antenna performance
- Higher spectrum efficiency
- Fewer dropped calls
- Lower cost of total ownership
- Reduced OPEX
Quality-Driven Processes and Materials
Our dedication to lowering your OPEX costs means that the materials and processes used to manufacture our Universal Structural Support Solutions are selected based on quality. As such, the manufacturing and quality of our processes conform to both AISC specifications and are ISO-9001 certified. Each individual solution is designed to meet or exceed the latest EIA/TIA code requirements.
A Design that Supports More than Your Antenna
Then there is the design itself; unique and holistic. For example, our tower face mounts feature a system of cross-structural supports and secure mounting channels that increase the stability of today's lighter towers and structures, not to mention creating a more secure mount for the antenna. As a result, these innovative support solutions minimize and, in many cases, eliminate twist and sway that can create antenna misalignment and erode network performance. By increasing structural integrity, this new family of mounting solutions allows the antennas to maintain the high level of performance and precision for which they are designed.
Installation Training that Ties it All Together
In addition to the structural support systems, the Andrew Steel and Microwave Groups have developed a comprehensive training program to teach installers the best practices for correctly and securely installing microwave antennas. Not surprisingly, many of these best practices were first developed by the experts at Andrew and our training program is now seen by many as an industry model.
Leadership is - Refusing to Sway When You See a Better Way
Sometimes being a leader means going it alone, doing what you know to be right until others understand the value of your decision. At Andrew we've never been afraid to stand apart. With our experience and broad perspective, we see things others don't. More times than not, we're right. We invite you to be the final judge.
Free Solutions Guide
To receive a free Andrew Structural Support Solutions Guide with more information on specifying the right structural support system for your antennas, click here.
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