Andrew Expands Integrated Cabinet Line for Wireless

(Product News, 18 Sep 2008)

CommScope Inc.'s communications products and systems division Andrew is expanding its integrated cabinet product line for wireless networks with multiple size offerings that feature unique cooling techniques for added protection at lower cost. Andrew's new full line of RBA Series integrated cabinets helps wireless operators and equipment manufacturers protect base station equipment from environmental conditions while reducing operating expenses and energy consumption.

The RBA Series cabinets are offered in four height sizes—48, 60, 72 and 84 inches—with each filling the same area at the base. This flexible, modular cabinet platform allows operators to buy only the amount of cabinet needed to fit current equipment installations.

In addition to the RBA Series integrated cabinets, Andrew is showcasing its EcoPower fuel cell backup power supply cabinets at the Intelec 2008 in San Diego, which provide environment-friendly DC backup power for wireless and wireline networks.

"As carriers contend with the responsibility of providing wireless service during power outages, Andrew offers an environmentally friendly backup power solution, as well as a modular solution that can significantly reduce annual operating expenses over comparable offerings," says Jerry Garrett, Vice President and General Manager, Cabinet Solutions, Andrew.

EcoPower cabinets have a cabinet design that is modular and flexible to meet the most stringent backup power needs. The cabinet's proton exchange membrane (PEM) hydrogen fuel cells, housed in a secure, weather resistant cabinet for outdoor deployment, offer a smaller footprint and more dense power backup than what has been available previously from competitors.

The RBA Series utilizes a unique combination of techniques to target cooling to specific areas within the enclosure instead of across the entire unit, minimizing operating expenses while maximizing protection of sensitive equipment. Four cooling options allow for environment-specific installations. Instead of cooling evenly across an entire rack, the RBA Series cabinets direct cooling to specific spots most affected by heatgenerating equipment. This is a more effective means of protecting equipment and minimizing expenditures in doing so.

"With the RBA Series, there is no need to buy an 84-inch rack cabinet when you only require 60 inches of protection," says Lindsay Allen, Director of Product Management and Marketing, Cabinet Solutions, Andrew. "Operators can save money by buying only what they need—and not wasting operating budget on cooling unused rack space."

The Andrew cabinets are an extension of the CommScope family of integrated cabinets, for years one of the top choices by North American telecommunications carriers for protecting network equipment. Andrew's full line of integrated cabinets address the unique requirements of wireless operators, connecting and protecting radio, power, amplifier and battery electronics while delivering industry leading acoustic and thermal performance. The RBA Series can support equipment from multiple suppliers in one enclosure for a given application. It is constructed of rugged 1/8th-inch thick aluminum, with UL50 and GR487 Zone 4 compliance, making it durable for outdoor usage. Its aesthetic design includes a louvered front door and three rear access panels, blending appearance and functionality.

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