Alternative Power

Motorola Inc. announced it would demonstrate a number of new alternative power technologies at the Mobile World Congress (News - Alert) including fuel cell and reflow batteries.

The company has been working towards the development of alternative power solutions, which are compatible with multiple wireless technologies ranging from GSM to high speed mobile broadband such as HSxPA and WiMAX (News - Alert).

“Following the success of the solar and wind powered cell site trials conducted in the UK and in Namibia, Motorola continues to develop technology that elevates the growing need of operators for alternative power sources from a theoretical possibility to practical and commercially viable solutions,” Fred Wright, senior vice president, Cellular Networks and WiMAX, Motorola (News - Alert) Home & Networks Mobility, was quoted as saying.

“Whether it’s because of a shortage of generating capacity or a lack of power grid infrastructure, the ultimate needs are very similar. Motorola’s alternative power offerings serve the needs of all operators irrespective of the technology they are using,” Wright added.

The new alternative power technologies are designed for installation in most wireless or mobile environments to enable voice and data, from 2G to WiMAX. Motorola will also demonstrate how a WiMAX base station can be powered by fuel cells. This technology requires no onsite hydrogen storage, thus ensuring rapid and easy installation.

Power storage is critical to future alternative power systems. Motorola’s Flow Battery will demonstrate how traditional batteries can be substituted with a more cost-effective and environment-friendly alternative.