Broadband Internet Access Basics - Data Validation

Contributor: John Determan

Armed with an arsenal of test equipment and data, we go out in the field and spend countless hours determining how closely each platform above is accurately displayed on the Minnesota maps.  In other words, our engineers validate a sampling of the data broadband providers submit to confirm coverage areas and broadband speeds.

As I explain what I'm doing with this equipment to folks I meet, they’re generally surprised and supportive of the validation activities.  Many people can't believe we’re so well equipped to verify a provider or platform service area.

To see an example of a typical Connected Nation field validation performed by ETS member Dwayne Goodman in a community just south of Dallas, Texas, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tNMEQKHbDIs

A spectrum analyzer is one of the many pieces of equipment we use in the field. In short, this device allows us to detect a radio frequency signal and determine if broadband is present.

John Determan serves as a Senior Wireless Engineer for Connected Nation’s Engineering & Technical Services Division.  John works with each of the state's broadband providers to gather the vital data needed to create detailed maps of broadband coverage.  He also responds to broadband inquiries posted by residents of Minnesota at the Connect Minnesota website (http://www.connectmn.org/broadband-inquiry

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