Mobile networks have undergone a major transformation in recent years, shifting from primarily delivering voice and text services to transporting data and connecting to the Internet. In many mobile networks today, data traffic already constitutes more than 97% of the total bits transmitted. Demand for data continues to be strong, driven by high take up and ease of use of smartphone, tablets, and related devices.

Long term evolution (LTE) promises one answer to the impending data capacity crunch, with lightening fast data rates and impressive spectral efficiency. However, this new technology – even with associated new spectrum – won't come close to satisfying forecast demand.

The industry now recognizes that the greatest capacity gains will be achieved by spectrum reuse through deployment of large numbers of small cells. A variety of radio technologies including 3rd Generation (3G), (LTE), and wireless fidelity (WiFi) will be relevant depending on device capabilities, spectrum availability, and price point.

No longer is femtocell technology considered purely as a coverage solution for the home. Today, it is difficult to find a network operator that does not have small cells somewhere on their roadmap.

Over the next five years, we can expect to see a major shift in network equipment investment. Analyst research already points to the majority of new cell-site investment moving across from macrocells into small cells in that timeframe. With some $50 billion of CapEx spent annually on mobile access networks, that will create both significant industry re-alignment and tremendous opportunity.