Nokia demonstrates XGS-PON for mobile fronthaul
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Nokia Bell Labs has announced the first successful demonstration of ultra-low latency 10G passive optical networks (PON) for mobile fronthaul.
In the demonstration, Nokia Bell Labs showed how it is possible to use a commercial next-generation PON to transport ultra-low latency CPRI streams via a standard single fiber running between the Baseband Unit (BBU) and the Remote Radio Head (RRH).
The proof-of-concept demonstration indicates how existing fiber networks can be used to cost-effectively transport mobile traffic, which could accelerate the transition to 5G.
The trial used XGS-PON technology that runs on existing fiber access networks and allows operators to use GPON platforms to deliver high-capacity services.
“This is an important milestone in the industry and in the advancement of 5G, showing for the first time how a PON network can effectively be used to support very high capacity, low latency applications,” Nokia Bell Labs head of access research Peter Vetter said.
“It demonstrates the flexibility of PON to support traditional CPRI and evolving mobile specifications, such as fronthaul over simpler native Ethernets, and validates the readiness of PON for the 5G era.”
Questions & Answers
Q.What specifically did Nokia Bell Labs demonstrate in this trial?
What specifically did Nokia Bell Labs demonstrate in this trial?
Nokia Bell Labs demonstrated the first successful use of an ultra-low latency 10G passive optical network to transport CPRI streams for mobile fronthaul. This was achieved using a commercial next-generation PON over a standard single fiber between a BBU and an RRH.
Q.Which technology was used to conduct this demonstration?
Which technology was used to conduct this demonstration?
The demonstration utilised XGS-PON technology, which operates on existing fiber access networks. This allows operators to use their current GPON platforms to deliver high-capacity services, indicating a cost-effective approach for mobile traffic transport.
Q.What is the main benefit or implication of this successful demonstration?
What is the main benefit or implication of this successful demonstration?
The main implication is that existing fiber networks can cost-effectively transport mobile traffic, which could speed up the transition to 5G. It also shows PON's flexibility to support both traditional CPRI and new mobile specifications like fronthaul over native Ethernets.