Infrastructure provider CommScope has unveiled a new platform for in-building wireless network architectures based on the key 5G design concept of centralized baseband processing and virtualized network functions.
The new platform CommScope Era is an all digital C-RAN antenna system that allows operators to deploy a centralized headend that serves multiple buildings and can tap capacity from an operator's existing C-RAN hubs.
Era uses a wide-area integration node that resides in the C-RAN hub and routes baseband capacity to a distribution point within the served building or campus.
Baseband capacity is allocated where it is needed, which CommScope said has the potential to reduce the amount of onsite head-end equipment and the amount of fiber needed for signal transport by up to 90%.
Access points are available with copper or fiber connectivity and outdoor or plenum ratings to allow the platform to serve a wide range of venue types.
The platform supports interleaved multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) that promises to offer up to 80% of the speeds of MIMO over a single-input-single-output infrastructure.
“New systems like CommScope Era respond to operators’ need for options that will make in-building wireless more affordable for building owners and commercial real estate companies,” Mobile Experts principal analyst Kyung Mun commented.
“Driving down costs and barriers to in-building wireless implementation will be critical for supporting the emerging demand for connected smart buildings.”