Open RAN Terminology - Virtualization, Disaggregation & Decomposition

Nice video for Open RAN Beginners: Terminology – Virtualization, Disaggregation & Decomposition

Open RAN Terminology - Virtualization, Disaggregation & Decomposition

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:globe_with_meridians: Disaggregated RAN Architecture :satellite::wrench::

Disaggregated RAN (Radio Access Network) architecture is a modern approach to designing and implementing cellular networks by separating various RAN components to enable flexibility, scalability, and interoperability.

  1. Traditional vs. Disaggregated RAN :control_knobs::vs::twisted_rightwards_arrows::

1.1 Traditional RAN: The Baseband Unit (BBU), Remote Radio Head (RRH), and other components are tightly integrated within a single, proprietary hardware system.

1.2 Disaggregated RAN: The BBU, RRH, and other components are decoupled and can be implemented on different hardware platforms, enabling multi-vendor interoperability and a more flexible network design.

  1. Key Components :key::jigsaw::

2.1 Central Unit (CU): Manages control plane functions, such as radio resource management and mobility management :signal_strength::wrench:

2.2 Distributed Unit (DU): Handles data plane functions, such as baseband processing and radio signal transmission :satellite::dash:

2.3 Radio Unit (RU): Converts digital signals from the DU into radio frequency signals for transmission to user devices :iphone::satellite:

  1. Benefits :chart_with_upwards_trend::sparkles::

3.1 Flexibility: Decoupling RAN components allows operators to mix and match hardware and software solutions from different vendors, leading to more flexible and customizable networks :arrows_counterclockwise::hammer_and_wrench:

3.2 Scalability: Disaggregated RAN makes it easier to scale network capacity by adding or upgrading individual components as needed :chart_with_upwards_trend::signal_strength:

3.3 Cost Efficiency: By using open interfaces and off-the-shelf hardware, operators can reduce costs associated with proprietary systems :moneybag::+1:

3.4 Innovation: Open interfaces and multi-vendor support drive innovation, as companies can develop new solutions that work within the disaggregated RAN ecosystem :rocket::star2:

:star2:Example: An operator can deploy a disaggregated RAN architecture with a Central Unit from Vendor A, a Distributed Unit from Vendor B, and a Radio Unit from Vendor C, all working seamlessly together to provide efficient and flexible network performance.

LinkedIn: :point_down:

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