ARCATA-- Carlson debuted its second-generation white space radio, the RuralConnect IP Version II (RCIP VII), at the Super Wi-Fi Summit in Austin, Tex. on September 13. Carlson and spectrum-database administrator Telcordia came together to demonstrate the compatibility of the RCIP VII and Telcordia’s database system with resounding success. 

Not only did the demo show without doubt that the two technologies work harmoniously, but the positive reaction to Carlson’s newest product evolution exceeded everyone’s expectations.

The RCIP VII is a faster, more affordable software-defined radio designed to support access to vacant television bands, often referred to as White Spaces, released by the FCC in 2010. Carlson developed the second generation after an entire year of experimental trials with the original device they pioneered, the RCIP. Now, the RCIP VII offers data rates four times higher than the former model, with throughput up to 16Mbps depending on the frequency, modulation and distance. Additionally, Carlson was able to reduce the price of its second-generation radio more than a third, positioning it as a more affordable solution for all TV White Space uses.       

“We’ve broken through to the next level in both cost and performance,” said CEO Jim Carlson. “Our customers in rural communities told us what they need: affordability and full broadband capacity.”

Over the past year while awaiting FCC final designation, Carlson has participated in numerous tests in order to prove that its Rural Connect IP system meets all standards and non-line-of-sight requirements.   Moreover, the RCIP and its second generation are designed to be database-agnostic, operating seamlessly with the top database providers, such as Telcordia.

The RCIP VII can be used to create point-to-point or point-to-multipoint networks with priority-routing support for voice, data and video traffic. Its numerous applications include rural broadband Internet access, which is particularly important in the public safety arena. Other applications are IP video surveillance, well and pipeline monitoring, smart metering, and traffic signal communications.

Future demonstrations include another joint effort between Carlson and Telcordia at “WISPApalooza,” a trade event for wireless Internet service providers in Las Vegas, Nev. on October 10-12.