CommScope has announced open interfaces, virtualized RAN functions, and new radio points for its OneCell small cell to provide an innovative and open approach for operators to deploy 5G networks in enterprises and venues.
The enhanced OneCell solution enables mobile network operators to meet the growing demand for reliable LTE and 5G services indoors. The innovative cloud-RAN small cell architecture creates a single intelligent “super” cell inside commercial buildings and public spaces. No individual cell borders means no handovers or interference, for high-capacity, high reliability and ultra-low latency performance. OneCell deploys over standard Ethernet LANs.
With OneCell, wireless operators can meet the soaring demand for mobile data while offloading traffic from their macro networks. This is a traditionally under-served use case but one that will be critical for operators to address enterprise needs.
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 US, and 3.5 GHz bands in Europe and the rest of the world.
Virtualized 5G NR baseband functions
this 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. For example, capacity-related functions can be centralized for efficient pooling, while data and media delivery can be pushed to the edge for low latency.
O-RAN 7.2x fronthaul interface
This allows fronthaul over Ethernet. CommScope implements 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.
Open Network Automation Platform (ONAP) framework support
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.”
