Verizon Communications announced a suite of technological innovations designed to restore connectivity faster and more safely than ever before. Verizon leverages high-resolution 3D imagery captured by tens of thousands of drone missions and artificial intelligence in its detailed digital network modeling. Immediately after a storm passes, specialized drones can take to the skies to capture 'after' imagery of the same cell sites and equipment.
By comparing the 'before' and 'after' models, advanced software can instantly and automatically identify the exact location of any damage to antennas, cables, or other equipment with pinpoint accuracy. By identifying needs virtually, engineers can prepare the exact equipment required and prioritize repairs, significantly speeding up network restoration. This technology allows Verizon to reduce the need for tower climbs and field visits when creating recovery plans.
Engineers can virtually visit and inspect cell sites, compare network design blueprints to on-the-ground reality, and make decisions faster than ever before. Verizon is currently testing permanent satellite backhaul as a failover solution at storm-prone macro cell sites across the Southeast, adding an additional layer of resiliency to Verizon?s network. By combining 100% backup battery power and back-up generator power with permanent satellite connectivity, these sites are designed to continue processing cellular traffic even if both commercial power and fiber lines are lost.
Verizon now possesses a fleet of 2,600 total satellite assets?which includes satellite-linked mobile deployable cell sites, mobile satellite link kits, and permanent satellite links for facilities. Verizon is introducing the 'Multi-Orbit Off-Road Trailer,' a new high-clearance, off-road vehicle that can use both Geosynchronous (GEO) and Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites that replaces older pavement-bound assets and is purpose-built for off-road environments. This vehicle offers flexible connectivity as the first asset designed to toggle between Geosynchronous (GEO) and Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites for reliable disaster-zone connections.
The Multi-Orbit Off-Road Trailer is also capable of Multi-Mission Deployment, allowing it to act as a mobile hub that drops off 5G low earth orbit connection kits for first responders to create localized hotspots while the vehicle moves on to restore a larger cell site.
