CommScope announced open interfaces, virtualized RAN functions, and new radio points for its OneCell small cell to provide an open approach for operators to deploy 5G networks in enterprises and venues, the company said in a release.
The enhanced OneCell solution leverages the latest open RAN and management frameworks to deliver in-building wireless services.
CommScope highlighted that in-building wireless services is a traditionally an under-served use case, but one that will be critical for operators to address enterprise needs.
CommScope said that the OneCell small cell now offers 5G mmWave and sub-6 GHz bands support. The addition of these bands to the OneCell RP5000 Series of radio points enables operators to address 5G in-building needs. This includes 28 GHz and 39 GHz mmWave bands, CBRS and C-band in the U.S., and 3.5 GHz bands in Europe and the rest of the world, according to CommScope.
The OneCell offering also will include virtualized 5G NR baseband functions, which allows baseband functions to run on x86-based server platforms anywhere in the network to support 5G network slicing – virtual end-to-end networks customized for each application requirement.
New innovations also include O-RAN 7.2x fronthaul interface, which allows fronthaul over Ethernet. CommScopesaid it has implemented further innovations, such as single cell operation across multiple radio points to maximize user QoE, and cell virtualization to increase spectral efficiency. These are critical to meeting the requirements of enhanced mobile broadband and ultra-reliable low latency communication 5G use cases, the company added.
Open Network Automation Platform (ONAP) framework support is the latest innovation added to the OneCell small cell, according to the vendor. This enables native management of OneCell under the O-RAN Alliance’s O1 Operations and Maintenance (OAM) interface specification. ONAP simplifies on-boarding, provisioning, orchestration and management for operators by providing a common framework across all network elements and services.
“CommScope fully supports open interfaces to stimulate innovation,” said Upendra Pingle, vice president of distributed coverage and capacity solutions for CommScope’s venues and campus networks segment. “We are delivering solutions for in-building cellular coverage that enable operators to realize the potential of their 5G networks for all types of subscribers and use cases.”
To support the surge of 5G rollouts around the world, CommScope also recently announced several antenna solutions, connectors and power options to make it simpler and faster for wireless operators to build their networks.
