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Developing low-cost, portable ICT infrastructure using Software Defined Radios (SDRs) and OpenBTS to enable wireless communication and internet access in Pakistan's rural and remote areas
Explore Technology
This groundbreaking project develops low-cost, portable ICT infrastructure using Software Defined Radios (SDRs) and OpenBTS technology to enable wireless communication and internet access in Pakistan's most remote and underserved areas.
Our initiative bridges the digital divide by enhancing access to education, healthcare, and emergency services through innovative wireless communication solutions that can operate in challenging rural environments without traditional infrastructure.
Our comprehensive rural ICT development targets Pakistan's unconnected remote regions, providing essential communication infrastructure through innovative Software Defined Radio solutions.
Providing reliable wireless connectivity to two unconnected remote sites using advanced SDR technology.
Extending Pakistan Education & Research Network connectivity to previously unreachable rural areas.
Introducing e-learning, e-health, and emergency communication services to local communities.
Compact, self-powered network systems designed for deployment in areas without electrical infrastructure.
Lead Institution: UET Lahore (KICS)
Principal Investigator: Dr. Imran Javed
Network: PERN Extension
Focus: Rural Digital Inclusion
Advanced SDR technology enabling flexible, programmable wireless communication systems
Open-source base transceiver station software for GSM/LTE network implementation
Interconnected base stations using WiFi and Ethernet for extended coverage
Complete communication services including voice calls and text messaging
High-speed mobile data connectivity for internet access and e-services
Open-source software development toolkit for signal processing applications
Planned and scoped the system architecture, procured and configured SDR equipment for comprehensive lab testing and deployment readiness.
Developed GSM/LTE software modules using YateBTS and GNU Radio to enable complete communication services and network functionality.
Tested voice calls, SMS, and data services within and between base stations using WiFi/Ethernet backhaul connections.
Optimized GSM systems for mobile data and upgraded to LTE for improved performance and broader service capabilities.
Prepared for deployment in remote areas with equipment upgrades including power amplifiers and antennas for extended range.
Planned workshops and APAN participation to share outcomes, foster collaboration, and build technical capacity.
Al-Khawarizmi Institute of Computer Science - Lead implementing organization and technical development
International collaboration partner providing technical expertise and research support
Local academic partner supporting research and development activities
Educational partner promoting digital inclusion and capacity building
Pakistan Education & Research Network - Connectivity and infrastructure provider
Trans-Eurasia Information Network Coordination Center - Technical coordination and support
Successfully developed a cost-effective GSM/LTE base station using SDR technology and open-source tools for rural deployment.
Enabled local and extended communication capabilities using WiFi/Ethernet backhaul connections between SDR base stations.
Successfully upgraded system from GSM to LTE technology for faster mobile data and improved overall network performance.
Designed compact, self-powered network solutions specifically for deployment in off-grid rural and remote areas.
Planned integration of power amplifiers and high-gain antennas to significantly expand rural network coverage areas.
Scheduled workshops and APAN sessions to share research results and foster regional collaboration in rural ICT development.
Scaling our rural ICT solutions across Pakistan and similar developing regions through enhanced technology deployment and sustainable implementation strategies.
Deploy systems in selected rural regions with upgraded RF components for comprehensive real-world testing and validation.
Add power amplifiers, LNAs, and high-gain antennas to extend coverage and improve signal quality in remote areas.
Launch e-learning, e-health, and emergency communication services using the established network infrastructure.
Train local personnel for system operation, maintenance, and long-term sustainability of rural communication networks.
Secure PTA licensing to enable full legal operation of GSM/LTE networks in target rural and remote areas.
Expand and replicate solutions to other unconnected rural communities across Pakistan and similar developing countries.