Transmitting Information: Facts about Cell Towers

If you can’t imagine life without your smartphone or any other gadget that connects to a cellular network, then you probably can’t live without cell towers as well. These structures, also referred to as base stations, transmit and receive radiofrequency (RF) signals that cellular phones use to send messages or call. Although cell towers are usually out of sight, since they have to be high enough to cover an area (around 50-200 feet high), it still pays to know a little bit about them given the vital role they play in telecommunications.

How do they work?

Whenever you use your cellular phone, it sends RF waves to nearby cell towers that transmit your call or message to its destination. Multiple carriers or providers can share the use of a single tower by placing their own equipment, or radio transmitters and receivers on the site.

Why are they valuable?

Other than their value in telecommunications, several landlords and investors actually consider cell towers as potentialiy lucrative opportunities. A tower located in a strategic areamakes it indispensable to numerous carriers. In fact, a number of cell phone companies would be willing to pay large rents just to maintain, or increase the scope of their service.