This section identifies the options available for mobile operators to share passive infrastructure elements of their wireless access networks. The provider of the infrastructure can either be one of the operators or a separate entity set up to build and operate it, such as a tower company. The passive infrastructure in a mobile network is composed mainly of:
- Electrical or fibre optic cables;
- Masts and pylons;
- Physical space on the ground, towers, roof tops and other premises; and
- Shelter and support cabinets, electrical power supply, air conditioning, alarm systems and other equipment.
Passive Mobile Sharing:
Options Available in Site Sharing
Source: Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), Recommendations on Infrastructure Sharing
A collection of passive network equipment in one structure for mobile telecommunications is generally called a “site.” Therefore, when one or more operators agree to put their equipment on (or in) the same site, it is called “site sharing” or “collocation.”
In site-sharing arrangements, operators might share space on the ground or on a tower or rooftop. Depending on the location, operators could install antennas directly on the structure (for example, a water tower or roof-top) or share a mast. The next degree of cooperation would involve sharing support systems at the site, such as power supply and air conditioning (often integrated in a site support cabinet, or SSC). Telecommunication plant (antennas and transmission equipment) is considered active infrastructure, which is discussed in section 7.5.5. Operators often welcome site sharing as cost-effective, because new sites can be costly, capital intensive, cumbersome to maintain and environmentally risky.