App helps document Idaho cellular dead zones

BOISE — The state of Idaho’s broadband team, LinkIDAHO, invites residents from around the state to utilize a mobile application that tests performance of mobile networks to accurately map mobile wireless coverage and document problem zones in areas that are relevant to the citizens and their communities.

“The results of this project will allow state planners to work with wireless carriers for the improvement of mobile broadband coverage based on the input of users,” said state broadband coordinator Mike Field.

As part of the national effort to map broadband availability, the state of Idaho has been working with providers since 2009 to develop broadband coverage maps that can be used as a baseline for improving the availability of broadband in rural areas and to better support services such as police and fire that depend on mobile wireless networks. This mobile test app provides an opportunity for the public to participate in this endeavor. “This is a powerful tool that enables the general public to anonymously document mobile network performance in their communities. For the first time, we are providing an effective communication channel for anyone with a smartphone to tell providers where mobile broadband needs to be improved” said Paul Reyes, project coordinator.

The “LinkIDAHO Mobile Test” app is free and available for download through the Apple and Google Play app stores. The app is installed in the same manner as any other app and can be used on smartphones and tablets.

Once the app is installed it runs automatically in the background but it also allows the user to perform manual tests in areas of specific interest. The app only uses 100 MB of the data plan, which is roughly 10 percent of a traditional data plan of 1 GB. Residents with very small data plans should not install the app.

Hank Ebert, economic development specialist with the Department of Commerce, said the app will play a large role in rural communities’ ability to portray problematic network areas and will provide valuable information to help address those problems.

“This app will help accurately identify ‘cellular dead zones’ in rural Idaho,” said Ebert.

The LinkIDAHO team hopes to see thousands of volunteers joining this effort because participants will be eager to provide valuable feedback regarding the status of mobile coverage network in areas where they live, work and play. The more local tests performed, the better the maps and analysis.

Test results from this project will provide a common view of coverage that will help continue the dialog between carriers and state planners. Additionally, this project will allow cell tower companies to make better informed decisions for the location of future towers.

Karen Ballard, chief tourism officer, Idaho Commerce, has joined efforts to promote this app to state travelers and encourage their valuable participation. The app can be installed and uninstalled at any time and consumes minimal resources from the phone.

For questions about the testing app or to participate in this project contact Paul Reyes at paul.reyes@cio.idaho.gov or 208-353-6675. For general questions about LinkIDAHO or for more information, please contact Mike Field at mike.field@irp.idaho.gov or 208-780-5149 or visit www.linkidaho.org.