Table 24: The ICT Value Chain in Myanmar with an Explanation of Key Terms Fibre optic cable Fibre optic cables allow for digital information to be transmitted over long distances and at high speeds. These cables are typically installed underground in trenches or underwater along ocean seabed for international Internet connectivity. Tower companies Tower companies are responsible for site acquisition i.e. leasing land from landowners. They often sub-contract tower construction (including civil work and tower erection). In some cases they can also manage power generation (diesel generators or hybrid with battery). Once the tower is built, they lease space on the tower to network operators who install their equipment on the tower. Power generation Power is required for base-transceiver stations (BTS) located at tower sites. Power is also required for larger data centres used in telecommunications. Depending on the business model, separate companies can provide and maintain diesel generators or hybrid diesel generator battery combinations for tower sites. These companies are responsible for fuel. In some cases, companies also sub-contract security to protect against tampering or fuel theft. Network equipment providers The role of the network vendor (or active network equipment suppliers) is typically to build, and in some cases manage, the telecommunication infrastructure that provides the basis for all fixed and mobile communications, including calls and data. A network vendor’s main customers are telecoms operators (see below). A network vendor ensures that connectivity occurs across services, operators, and borders, and also ensures that the network is capable of handling the increasing demands for data and access, by supplying what is known as the “radio network”. A vendor may also provide physical hardware, known as the “core network”, to perform specific tasks, such as lawful interception. 3 Once towers are constructed, the network vendor companies then fix their radio signal receiver and transmitter equipment on the tower. Transmitters can also be housed in nearby base stations, which are normally a few feet away from the tower. Mobile phones continually emit signals that are picked up by the nearest receiver on the nearest cell towers when a call is made or a text message sent. Once the call is connected, the transmitters in base stations then carry the information (such as a conversation) to the mobile phone of the intended recipient. When the user is in transit (for example on a bus) and moves out of range of one tower, the connectivity is maintained because the next closest tower picks up the communication. CHAPTER 3: SECTOR-LEVEL IMPACTS 87