All about cellular networks

Mobile communications works by using low power radio waves necessary to carry speech and data. When a call is made, the signal is handed across a network of linked geographic areas called 'cells' until it reaches its destination.

A piece of equipment called a 'base station' transmits signals from one cell to the next, or to land-line networks. Each cell is the area that each base station covers. Base stations are often called masts, towers or cell-sites.

How do base station sites work?

Base station sites are essential to making mobile phones work. They house radio transmitters and receivers that pick up signals sent from your phone and transfer them to your network operator, so that you can be connected.

Base stations receive mobile phone signals from people at ground-level or in buildings. And send out signals that you receive as calls, messages, data and other mobile services.

Their construction requires:

• Structure for mounting antennas
• Antennas for exchanging signals
• Electronic equipment for processing signals

Antennas are typically placed high above the ground to transmit and receive signals between base stations. Masts and towers are often used to provide height. But you might also see antennas at the top of taller buildings. In some situations less visibly prominent base station designs are used.

Find out more about different base stations.