Planning reconfigurable network segments: motivation, benefits for operators and manufacturers, and strategies

The migration of telecommunications towards the B3G era is characterized by the convergence of mobile communication systems and IP networks, in order to better adapt to the - continuously increasing - user demands. Reconfigurability is a key concept facilitating such convergence. This paper emphasizes on the potential benefits reconfigurability may hold far operators and manufacturers, and also presents some business models describing its penetration into the global market. Moreover, the introduction of such concept can change the way wireless networks are designed. In this context, the paper also discusses on some strategies for the dynamic planning and management of reconfigurable network segments, including some simulations and indicative results