OpenRAN: a disaggregated approach to radio access networks
Radio access networks
A radio access network (RAN) is a major component of telecommunications infrastructure. It is the area of the wireless network that connects the mobile network to your cell phone or other devices on the edge of the network. To download our latest brochure click here
OpenRAN (Open Radio Access Network) is a set of initiatives and standards aimed at creating open, interoperable interfaces within the radio access network (RAN) of cellular systems, particularly for 5G. It allows for hardware and software components from different vendors to work together, promoting competition, flexibility, and innovation in the deployment of telecom networks.
Filtronic’s role in OpenRAN
Filtronic’s contributions to OpenRAN are rooted in our expertise in RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave solutions, which are essential for the wireless backhaul, fronthaul, and transmission infrastructure that OpenRAN systems depend on. OpenRAN architectures demand flexible, high-performance RF components to support multi-vendor environments, and Filtronic is well-positioned to offer these products:
Key products for OpenRAN
Transceivers
Filtronic designs and manufactures high-frequency transceivers, which are essential for wireless fronthaul, midhaul and backhaul (collectively known as XHaul) in OpenRAN systems. These high-frequency transceivers operate in the mmWave bands (60 GHz and above), providing the high capacity and low latency needed to support 5G’s demanding data throughput.
These transceivers are used to connect remote radio units (RRUs) to baseband units (BBUs) and in point-to-point links, which are vital for flexible and cost-effective OpenRAN architectures.
RF Filters and Diplexers
Filtronic’s RF filters help in managing interference and signal integrity in OpenRAN systems. OpenRAN, with its multi-vendor, multi-band setups, requires robust filtering solutions to ensure smooth communication between different frequency bands.
Our high-performance filters and diplexers are customisable for specific frequency ranges, making them suitable for the diverse and flexible nature of OpenRAN networks.
Power Amplifiers (PAs)
Filtronic offers power amplifiers that are critical for boosting RF signals in OpenRAN. Our amplifiers provide high linearity and efficiency, which are important in dense 5G environments where RF performance is paramount.
In OpenRAN, PAs are necessary to ensure that RRUs have adequate signal power to communicate effectively with base stations, especially in high-frequency bands.
Custom RF solutions
Filtronic is known for developing custom RF solutions tailored to specific requirements in the telecom sector. OpenRAN networks, with their modular and vendor-neutral nature, often require highly specialised components that are interoperable. Filtronic’s ability to create bespoke RF components & subsystems, positions us as a key supplier for OpenRAN deployments.
Experience in OpenRAN
Filtronic’s involvement in OpenRAN is an extension of our long-standing experience in telecom infrastructure and RF component design. While the OpenRAN concept is relatively new, Filtronic has a deep background in providing critical components to the telecom sector, including products used in traditional RAN setups. The company’s shift towards OpenRAN follows the broader telecom industry’s trend of embracing open, interoperable networks to reduce costs, increase competition, and encourage innovation.
Contributions to 5G and OpenRAN
High-frequency RF expertise
OpenRAN requires advanced high-frequency RF components to support 5G networks, especially as telecom operators move toward mmWave frequencies for increased bandwidth and lower latency. Filtronic’s expertise in mmWave solutions provides vital infrastructure for these high-frequency bands, which are essential in OpenRAN’s disaggregated network environment.
Scalability for telecom operators
OpenRAN’s scalability, flexibility, and ability to integrate solutions from multiple vendors are key benefits for telecom operators. Filtronic provides critical RF modules that are adaptable to varying network demands, ensuring that operators can easily scale their networks as they add more base stations and users.
Collaboration with OpenRAN providers
Filtronic works alongside telecom providers and infrastructure vendors who are part of the OpenRAN movement. This includes collaborating with system integrators and OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) to ensure that our RF components meet OpenRAN’s technical specifications and performance standards.
Importance of Filtronic’s solutions in OpenRAN:
- Interoperability: Filtronic’s RF products are designed to work seamlessly with a variety of other vendor components, a fundamental requirement in OpenRAN, where multi-vendor solutions must interact efficiently.
- Performance: With 5G pushing the limits of speed, latency, and capacity, Filtronic’s high-frequency solutions are integral to delivering the performance necessary in dense urban environments and other challenging network conditions.
- Cost-effectiveness: OpenRAN seeks to reduce the cost of network deployments, and Filtronic’s high-quality, customisable RF components contribute to lowering the overall cost of ownership for operators.
With a strong background in millimeter-wave technologies, Filtronic is well-equipped to help telecom operators deploy 5G networks that are more flexible, scalable, and cost-effective. Our products, such as transceivers, filters, amplifiers, and custom solutions, are key enablers in building and optimising OpenRAN infrastructure.