Innovation driving 4G networks

We are fortunate to watch the evolution of new generation base stations which are playing an ever increasing role in delivering affordable broadband to masses. Commonly referred as compact base stations, are the latest base station design which was recently introduced in to the market by all major suppliers like Motorola, Huawei, ALU, Ericson, ZTE, Samsung etc. They bring 4G operators flexibility and cost savings, while retaining the performance of macro BTSs.

These new generation compact BTSs can be installed in single-sector or multiple-sector configurations as alternatives to Macro BTSs with remote radio heads (RRHs).Unlike traditional macro BTSs, compact BTSs do not require ground shelters and cooling equipment, yet they need not compromise on high-performance features such as support for multiple antennas and beamforming.

The new genre of base stations has the following characteristics which will help operators to remain profitable in data networks. The business of data networks is quite different than voice. Typically operators have to support 100 times more data delivery in almost similar ARPU as compared to Voice. Advancements in MIMO technology and larger chucks of spectrum are playing an important role in shaping evolution of mobile broadband networks; however the emergence of new generation of compact base stations is supporting operators to reduce capex and opex.

• Support for larger channel bandwidths upto 20 MHZ with typical processing capability of over 170 mbps per channel cards in baseband. Multiple 20 MHz carrier aggregation can be supported in this new genre of base stations with multiple channel cards and Remote radio heads.

• Support of the multi-carrier technology (With software configuration, one sector supports multiple carriers to provide larger capacity. In this way, the number of new sites required for capacity expansion decreases, and the capacity expansion cost is cut down.)

• The advancement in Power amplifiers efficiency has helped operator to reduce their power requirement at least by a factor of half.

  

• The Remote radio heads can be extended up-to 1 kilometers as their connectivity is based on CPRI/OBSAI interface and has fiber as a interface.

• New distributed base stations works in natural cooling mode without any cooler and reduces power consumption.

• Migration

  • WiMAX 16e to WiMAX 16m: This can be easily achieved by replacing the channel cards and upgrading the software to WiMAX 16m. If WiMAX 16e and WiMAX 16m use the same frequency, the RRH need not be replaced. Otherwise, the RRH must be replaced.

  • WiMAX 16e to LTE+/TDD: This configuration can be supported by replacing the channel cards and upgrading the software to LTE. If WiMAX 16e and LTE use the same frequency, the RRH may not be required to change. Otherwise, the RRH must be replaced.

• The new 4G base stations are compact ,light, and supports multiple installation modes to reduce the footprint and the labor cost. The RRH are mostly small and light (<21 kg), and thus it can be installed on a pole, tower, wall, or support. In addition, the RRH can be installed near the antenna system to decrease feeder length and loss so that the feeder cost is reduced.

• The Baseband units can be installed in the 19-inch cabinet such as the GSM cabinet or outdoor shelter to avoid extra investment, as shown in below figure.

  

An Excellent White paper written by Monica Paolini from Senza Fili Consulting highlightsing advantages operators can achieve by using these new compact base stations. With a smaller footprint, lighter weight, and much lower power consumption, they cost less to install and to operate. Operators can save 38% to 47% in capex and opex over a five-year period as per the report.

Download paper here

Picture Source: Motorola

Suggesting reading: Wireless access strategies for operators