The current technological landscape is witnessing a significant shift towards enhancing in-building cellular networks. This change is largely propelled by the adoption of Open RAN (Radio Access Network) technologies. Among the leading voices championing this cause is CommScope, which has identified key drivers such as market opportunity, total cost of ownership (TCO), ecosystem support, and convergence. Luigi Tarlazzi of CommScope offers insightful perspectives on how the focus on in-building investments becomes more pronounced halfway through a cellular generation’s lifecycle. As 5G began its rollout around 2020, efforts are now geared towards upgrading the in-building cellular networks, particularly in crowded environments like stadiums and airports.
Key Drivers Propelling Open RAN Adoption
Market Opportunity and Total Cost of Ownership
The exponential growth in mobile data consumption and the increasing need for seamless connectivity within large venues present a lucrative market opportunity for Open RAN solutions. By addressing the demand for reliable in-building cellular networks, businesses and service providers can ensure a superior user experience. Traditional Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) have long been the go-to solution for such requirements. However, Open RAN presents a more efficient and cost-effective alternative.
Open RAN reduces the total cost of ownership by minimizing on-premises footprint and energy consumption. Unlike conventional systems, which often necessitate extensive hardware and infrastructure investments, Open RAN can operate with fewer physical resources. This reduction not only cuts initial expenditures but also leads to significant savings on operational costs over time. The leaner infrastructure of Open RAN makes it particularly advantageous for greenfield deployments where there are fewer legacy systems to integrate.
Ecosystem Support and Convergence
A robust ecosystem is crucial for the success of any technological innovation, and Open RAN is no exception. There is an established network of in-building specialists, including system integrators and managed service providers, that are well-equipped to support Open RAN deployments. These experts play a pivotal role in seamlessly integrating carrier solutions into enterprise infrastructures, ensuring that businesses can fully leverage the benefits of Open RAN.
Convergence is another significant trend driving the adoption of Open RAN. It involves the integration of public and private cellular networks on shared infrastructure, combining licensed and unlicensed spectrum, and running multiple software elements on unified hardware platforms. This approach enables more scalable and upgradable networks, where enhancements can be implemented through software updates rather than hardware changes. This flexibility is particularly appealing to enterprises that prefer a more IT-like management of their cellular networks.
The Future of Open RAN in In-Building Networks
Investment in Multi-Carrier Systems and Private Networks
Luigi Tarlazzi’s insights also highlight the future potential of Open RAN for multi-carrier systems and private networks. These systems are gaining traction due to their ability to support various carriers and provide customized network solutions tailored to specific enterprise needs. Greenfield deployments, in particular, are seen as low-risk ventures for mobile network operators, making them ideal for incorporating Open RAN technologies.
The user-friendliness of Open RAN cannot be overstated. Unlike traditional cellular networks that require specialized knowledge for maintenance and operation, Open RAN offers a more IT-oriented approach. Enterprises can source their own hardware and integrate the necessary software and RAN workloads, creating a more manageable and flexible network environment. This autonomy is especially beneficial for businesses that want to maintain control over their network infrastructure.
Scalability and Upgradability via Convergence
The concept of convergence plays a crucial role in the scalability and upgradability of modern cellular networks. By using shared infrastructure and unifying various network components, Open RAN creates a versatile platform that can accommodate future advancements. Software updates can be deployed to enhance network capabilities without the need for extensive hardware overhauls, making the process more efficient and less disruptive.
This convergence also supports a range of use cases, from enhancing connectivity in large public venues to providing tailored solutions for private enterprises. The ability to deploy a unified hardware platform that supports both public and private networks offers unmatched flexibility. Enterprises can benefit from a more cohesive and comprehensive network solution that meets their specific requirements while also preparing them for future technological developments.
Conclusion
The current tech landscape is experiencing a notable shift towards improving in-building cellular networks, driven by the adoption of Open RAN (Radio Access Network) technologies. CommScope stands out as a leading advocate in this field, focusing on key factors such as market opportunities, total cost of ownership (TCO), ecosystem support, and convergence. Luigi Tarlazzi from CommScope provides valuable insights, highlighting how investments in in-building networks become more significant around the midpoint of a cellular generation’s lifecycle. With the rollout of 5G starting around 2020, attention has now turned to enhancing in-building cellular networks, especially in high-traffic areas like stadiums and airports. These upgrades are crucial for accommodating increasing user demands and ensuring seamless connectivity in large venues. The push towards better in-building coverage reflects the broader goal of ensuring that advanced cellular technologies effectively meet modern communication needs, supporting both individual users and large-scale events effectively.
