Patent attributes
Apparatus and methods for providing small cell backhaul are disclosed. A network node that acts as a gateway for a local communication network to a main communication network through a bonded link with the main communication network also provides a wireless communication module with a backhaul communication link to the main communication network through its bonded link. A switch module in the network node switches communication traffic between the local communication network, the wireless communication module and the bonded link to the main communication network. The network node may power the wireless communication module utilizing remote power provided by the main communication network, the local communication network, and/or a local source of power. Apparatus and methods for providing a transparent bonded link through a network access multiplexer are also disclosed, including management of the bonded link and of nodes subtending from the bonded link.
