4G growth creates demand for network equipment - Network Accessories

Demand for computer cables and network accessories is set to rise as mobile network operators face an "explosion" of demand for mobile data.

Research by Virgin Media Business found the majority – 84 per cent – of mobile phone retailers think 4G licences will drive demand.

The company said operators need to think about employing technologies that will help them cope with demand and avoid any bottle-necking of services.

According to the study, by 2015 it's estimated people will be using 30 times more mobile data than they were in 2009.

In just two years, mobile usage has rocketed by 250 per cent as consumers increasingly turn to apps like iPlayer and YouTube – standard features on 83 per cent of handsets.

George Wareing, head of mobile and broadcast at Virgin Media Business, said mobile operators have a "big job" on their hands.

"Simply put, mobile data usage is like a bottomless pit, it’s expanding all the time," he explained.

“There is a delicate balance between customer demand, customer experience and costs. To avoid penalising people for watching their favourite shows or music videos on the move, operators are looking at fibre-based backhaul for cell sites. This can help to ease the strain and provide a permanent fix."

News provided by Comms Express, number one for network equipment on the net.