A recent announcement by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) Chairman has brought Open-RAN (Radio Access Network) into the limelight. According to the Chairman, the use of Open-RAN and software-defined telecom networks potentially opens new avenues for Indian entities in the network equipment market. This article aims to break down the key aspects and potential benefits of this remarkable shift in mobile network architecture.
Understanding Open-RAN
Open-RAN is not a technology in itself but represents an ongoing evolution in mobile network architecture. The primary concept of Open-RAN centers around ‘opening’ the protocols and interfaces between various subcomponents, including radios, hardware, and software, within the Radio Access Network (RAN).
In contrast with single-vendor proprietary architectures, Open-RAN promotes an open, multi-vendor approach for mobile network deployment. It uses software strategies to coordinate hardware components produced by diverse manufacturers.
Insights into the Radio Access Network (RAN)
The Radio Access Network (RAN) serves as the connecting bridge between individual user devices and other network segments via radio connections. RAN is pivotal in establishing a connection between users and the core network. This connection can involve a range of user equipment, such as mobile phones, computers, or remotely controlled machines.
From a technical viewpoint, RAN functions as a disaggregated network system.
Elements of the Radio Access Network
There are three principal elements within the RAN. The Radio Unit (RU) is responsible for transmitting, receiving, amplifying, and digitizing radio frequency signals. Usually, the RU is situated near or integrated into the antenna.
The Distributed Unit (DU) houses the real-time, baseband processing functions. The location of the DU can be centralized or positioned close to the cell site. Lastly, the Centralized Unit (CU) generally contains the less time-sensitive packet processing functions.
Functioning of Open-RAN
Open-RAN focuses on the interfaces between the RU, DU, and CU. By opening and standardizing these interfaces, alongside others in the network, Open-RAN facilitates a more modular network design that is not reliant on a single vendor. This shift also paves the way for running the DU and CU as virtualized software functions on vendor-neutral hardware.
Drawbacks of Traditional RAN
In traditional RAN systems, the radio, hardware, and software are proprietary, meaning a single supplier usually provides a majority of the equipment. This setup restricts network operators from deploying a network using radios from one vendor with hardware and software from another. The mix-and-match approach can often lead to performance reductions and create high entry barriers for new market entrants due to vendor lock-ins.
Benefits of Open-RAN
The adoption of Open-RAN holds several promising benefits. Firstly, by enlarging the ecosystem with an array of vendors offering integral components, Open-RAN fuels innovation and presents more options for operators. Secondly, it opens up exciting opportunities for Indian entities to break into the network equipment market.
Additionally, the shift to Open-RAN fosters increased network agility and flexibility and brings significant cost savings. This approach is anticipated to enhance 5G flexibility and cost-efficiency. The potential for adding new services is another plus point for operators switching to Open-RAN.
Source: IE