3G Mobile Coverage using Vodafone Sure Signal

Posted: 9th October 2016

By: WiRE Team

 

Vodafone UK wants to give another 100 rural community ‘hot-spots’ access to reliable 3G indoor mobile coverage for the first time.  Following on from its successful Rural Open Sure Signal programme, which has brought 3G coverage to more than 80 villages across the UK, Vodafone launched its Community Indoor Sure Signal (CISS) programme earlier in the summer.  We are now looking for your help to encourage more communities to put themselves forward and apply for the programme – and enjoy the benefits  that The Bear and Ragged Staff in Bransford, near Worcester is already enjoying

Why?

In rural and remote locations, supplying mobile coverage by traditional means can be difficult. This may be due to geography of the area, or difficulties with siting masts in places such as national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty.  This means many people in smaller, rural communities may not be due to receive upgraded coverage in their area for some time. 

What is CISS?

Our Community Indoor Sure Signal programme uses ‘femtocell’ technology called Sure Signal Plus.  The units are similar in size to a broadband router. They simply plug into an existing broadband router and a power source to provide mobile coverage throughout the building. Units are completely free to install and use, we only ask that the landlord is happy to cover the electricity costs. 

The unit is no bigger than your broadband router. 

Who could benefit?

Anyone who lives in or manages any of the following hubs, in the communities with whom you work and in which you live, could benefit their local friends and neighbours by installing on of these discreet and very low power units:

  • Rural pubs and shops
  • Village halls or social clubs
  • Visitor centres
  • Sports clubs
  • Scout huts
  • Doctor/vet’s surgeries

All applicants need is:

  •  an unlimited broadband package
  • download speeds of at least 4Mbps
  • upload speeds of 2Mbps
  • a domestic plug-in power point

Applications must be made by the broadband bill payer.

Want to know more? Further information and application details are available at vodafone.uk/CISS