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5G OpenRAN: Advantages and Disadvantages

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This page explores the advantages and disadvantages of 5G OpenRAN, outlining its benefits and potential drawbacks.

What is 5G OpenRAN?

Introduction:

  • 5G OpenRAN is a 5G solution leveraging the OpenRAN architecture.
  • OpenRAN represents an open ecosystem of GPP (General Purpose Processing) based RAN. It decouples software from hardware vendors, capitalizing on the benefits of GPP capabilities at both the software and FPGA levels.
  • OpenRAN is essentially a virtualized RAN solution. Virtualization allows for the simulation of hardware platforms in software. All functionalities are separated from the hardware and simulated as a virtual interface, operating similarly to traditional hardware.

Open RAN System Image Courtesy: blog.3g4g.co.uk

  • Thanks to its virtualized RAN architecture, 5G OpenRAN can deliver key 5G features such as network slicing, edge computing, NFV (Network Functions Virtualization), and massive MIMO.
  • Separating software from hardware provides RAN flexibility, enabling operators to deliver customized services more cost-effectively.
  • Compared to traditional RAN, Open RAN offers four main advantages: it is software-defined, unbundled (disaggregated control/data open APIs), programmable, and flexible.

Benefits or Advantages of 5G OpenRAN

The following are the benefits or advantages of 5G OpenRAN:

  • Reduced CAPEX and OPEX: Operators can lower both capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX). This is because the integration, deployment, and operation of the RAN become possible using components, subsystems, and software from multiple suppliers, all connected using open interfaces.
  • Increased Flexibility: The 5G OpenRAN architecture is inherently very flexible.
  • Cost-Effective Services: Operators can deliver more cost-effective services to consumers.
  • Opportunities for Small Vendors: Small vendors can deliver COTS (Commercial Off-The-Shelf) hardware according to telecom carrier and OEM specifications, potentially increasing their sales. Contractors will also find increased installation work.
  • Leverages GPP (General Purpose Processor): Utilizing GPPs provides several benefits, including:
    • Economy of Scale: Achievable due to large volumes.
    • Faster Innovation: Driven by a software-centric approach.

Drawbacks or Disadvantages of 5G OpenRAN

The following are the drawbacks or disadvantages of 5G OpenRAN:

  • Less Generic Integration Skills: The skills required to perform integration activities become less generic. Carriers may not be able to rely on general IT personnel and might need specialists with specific OEM experience. This could lead to speciality companies losing integration business.
  • Slower Performance Compared to SPP: GPP architecture-based Open RAN systems can be slower compared to SPP (Single Purpose Processor) systems. This is because SPPs run a limited number of functions and are optimized for a specific area or algorithm.
  • Higher Power Consumption: GPP-based Open RAN systems tend to consume more power compared to SPP-based systems.