Proof-of-Concept Prototype of Wideband VHF-based Video Streaming for e-Health Interventions in Remote Rural Areas

In this paper, we propose a 2-meter VHF radio system as an overlay over the 140~148 MHz frequency band for cost effective, long-range, high-data-rate wireless communication in remote rural areas. Referred to herein as the wideband VHF (W-VHF) system, the 140~148 MHz VHF band operation is attractive from the deployment cost standpoint due to the compact size of needed radios and antennas, while effectively facilitating long range communication. The 8 MHz bandwidth is desired to achieve high-data-rate transmission suitable for real-time video streaming desired for telehealth/telemedicine services. We also describe a proof-of-concept prototype of the W-VHF system tested in a lab setting. Our test results indicate that the quality of streaming video and embedded voice at the final destination is not much different than the quality of video and voice played at the source, and the proposed W-VHF system could effectively address the challenges in delivering telehealth/ telemedicine in remote rural areas around the world.