The Shared Rural Network recently took another step forward by undertaking Carrier Wave Testing in the Fort William area.

Technical consultants, Plum Consulting, headed to the Scottish Highlands to undertake a week’s worth of testing that will help engineers further develop radio plans for the programme.

A temporary mast and a roaming vehicle were deployed in the area to test how well a 4G mobile signal is transmitted and received in a rural location, taking into consideration the landscape and rural features. Sampling was carried out in a range of locations in the area, including Spean Bridge, Glen Nevis and Loch Arkaig.

By using the data gathered in this testing phase, the programme engineers will then be able to find the optimal radio coverage model frequency to get the best possible signal for mobile devices and will help better plan mast locations.

Paul Young, SRN Programme Director, said ‘

"Completing the testing is a significant milestone for the programme. Partnering with Plum has provided us with the tangible data for us to further develop our radio plans, based on actual radio transmissions within the Highlands. Using this data, we will calibrate our planning tools ensuring our preferred locations provide the optimum radio coverage based on the terrain."

For further information about the Shared Rural Network vist www.srn.org.uk