Telecom network and software maker Nokia today announced the launch of a light and compact 4G network — based on small cell technology — for business-critical services.

Nokia claims that telecom operators can utilize the compact 4G network to provide voice, video and data services in emergency situations, remote locations and events, and act as a hotspot for public safety organizations, industries and operators.

The compact 4G network is designed to provide indoor and outdoor 4G coverage with a range of 75 km for up to 400 users. In remote, underserved areas it can provide capacity and coverage, and can utilize cable, satellite or microwave technologies for backhaul to extend an operator’s existing macro network.

# A rapidly deployable network means voice, video and data services are available within minutes of arriving on site.

# Embedded LTE core network for Evolved Packet Core functions eliminates the need for additional equipment when establishing a closed mobile broadband network.

Mansoor Hanif, director of RAN at EE, said: “EE had the opportunity to trial Nokia’s latest innovation, the Ultra Compact Network, in indoor and outdoor environments in May 2016. It is an ideal solution for disaster recovery and to deliver temporary coverage both for public and private sector customers.”

Telecom network operators can set up the compact and light 4G network from Nokia to offer high speed Internet services in remote industrial sites such as mines, petrochemical plants and oil rigs. Mobile operators can also use the technology to bridge network coverage gaps or provide temporary additional coverage and capacity in high-traffic locations and events such as outdoor music festivals.

Nokia said the Ultra Compact Network — built around Nokia’s Flexi Zone Small Cells family – weighs approximately 5kg and requiring a power supply of about 100 W. Telecom network operators set up the compact 4G network by powering by a car-based inverter or small portable generator to support up to 400 active users across a cell range of 75 km.

Thorsten Robrecht, head of Advanced Mobile Networks Solutions at Nokia, said: “The need for rapidly deployable 4G solutions is closely linked to the explosion of video and data usage in public safety scenarios.”