AT&T has started selling portable cellular antennas which can be used by organizations, or even private individuals who have the resources, to provide their own cellular signal even in areas where coverage is very weak or non-existent.
The US telecoms giant revealed on Monday that two antennas, one called the Remote Mobility Zone and a smaller antenna often classed as “femtocells”, are now available for purchase.
The Remote Mobility Zone fits in a suitcase which can be carried around easily and also comes with a separate satellite dish for connection.
The Remote Mobility Zone is designed to let organizations provide cellular coverage for remote areas and could also be deployed when disasters knock-out regular coverage in an area.
According to AT&T, the Remote Mobility Zone can provide coverage up to half a mile from its location which can handle 14 simultaneous voice calls and provide internet access at below broadband speeds.
AT&T says that the unit, which relies on outside power to work, can also be mounted on vehicles.
Femtocells, on the other hand, are smaller antennas which can be installed in homes to boost wireless coverage. The units will cost within a range of $15,000 to $45,000 plus monthly fees, AT&T said.
