6 reasons why 5G and XR optics are the perfect duo

Telecommunications operators are currently in the process of upgrading their network infrastructure to support the new features, higher bandwidth levels and increased performance required for 5G deployment. The new standard places specific expectations on them. These include:  

• More dynamic bandwidth patterns with the ability to relocate bandwidth as services become time-of-day dependent. 
• Advanced RAN techniques such as M-MIMO (massive multiple-input multiple-output), driving the need for an xHaul architecture with a frontthaul domain. 
• An increase in the number of RUs of devices that are supported on a shared xHaul access network, driven by the density of base station locations. 

• Support for new network capabilities such as MEC (Multi-Access Edge Computing). 
• Meeting performance requirements in terms of low latency and time synchronization and distribution. 

These functions boil down to the implementation of a flexible network, which will allow for quick response – in case of the need to suddenly increase, or relocate portions of the bandwidth. 

In order to meet customer expectations while offering competitive prices, operators must implement optimal solutions that can benefit now and in the future.  One of the options many network operators are considering is an architecture built on point-to-multipoint XR optics, fitting into the traffic pattern created by 5G xHaul networks. 

The new technological approach must not only be interesting from an engineering point of view, but must also bring tangible benefits to the network operator and end customers. Here are 6 reasons why 5G and XR optics are the perfect combination. 

New dimension of network economics 

The first and most important reason is the significant reduction in capital costs for implementing new network technology. XR optics brings Capex savings of up to 70%. Not only does this help the business economics of 5G transport, but the lower cost base potentially opens up opportunities for new xHaul services and other applications that previously, due to lack of cost-effectiveness, were not considered.  

Reduction in space occupied, less energy consumption 

XR optics makes it possible to change a previously suboptimal network model, to an architecture that fits into its scheme, resulting in a significant reduction in the required hardware, and thus space and power consumption.  

Compared to traditional network design, the difference is dramatic. In an aggregation location, there is no need for either optical inserts or special aggregation equipment – all that is needed is the simplest optical splitter, which combines signals from client locations and the combined signal, transmits to the HUB location. This represents a significant advantage in terms of operating expenses due to reduced space and power requirements in the network. A network based on XR optics frees up critical space and power, which can then be used for key 5G transition requirements such as MEC and DU/CU processing. 

It is also worth mentioning that the use of such a network design reduces the number of necessary visits to sites to increase or relocate bandwidth in given relationships. 

Support for new point-to-multipoint architectures 

XR optics enables network operators to migrate to a point-to-multipoint transport infrastructure that better matches traffic demands across all xHaul domains. While this is a key enabler of the economic benefits described above, it also has benefits in terms of network planning and the ability to handle asymmetric transmissions in mobile networks – matching actual traffic. 

Use of existing PON optical infrastructure 

Mobile transport networks often have to support a single-fiber working infrastructure at the edge of an optical network (PON access network). XR optics provides network operators with the tools they need to bring high-bandwidth services to this infrastructure – services that require coherent optics, through a high-throughput coherent DWDM network. XR optics also provides the opportunity to support asymmetric transmissions.  

Support for multi-generation retrofits 

A general advantage of all XR optical networks is the ability to support multi-generation upgrades, where upgrades are only required at nodes that need more capacity, rather than at all locations in the network. This is a particular advantage in 5G transport networks, as the impact of unnecessary upgrades could be noticeable in the case of optics installed in equipment located in base stations, which can be very expensive to upgrade. 

Automation of capacity allocation 

With XR optics, network operators can automate the value of the initial bandwidth and its further expansion with advanced automation and software-configurable bandwidth. With XR optics mounted to support the base station, it is possible to remotely deliver additional bandwidth via software, a particular advantage in 5G transport networks. 

XR optics is an open technology initiative supported by network operators, equipment manufacturers and subsystem manufacturers. Infinera’s ICE-XR portfolio, can offer significant benefits to network operators planning high-throughput xHaul networks to support 5G. Infinera will begin testing ICE-XR in the second half of this year, with general availability expected by the end of the year and volume expansion in the first half of 2023. 

About FCA & Infinera

Infinera is a global provider of innovative network infrastructure solutions with more than 40 years of experience in the telecommunications industry. It holds more than 2,000 patents for carrier-grade products and services. Infinera brand solutions are dedicated to governments, enterprises and cloud operators. With them, they can easily increase the capacity of their networks, introduce automation of operations and thus accelerate the innovation of their services.

The collaboration between FCA and Infinera is about realizing the shared value of providing unlimited bandwidth and a reliable transport network. Our portfolio includes Infinera’s active WDM technology systems that enable rapid business growth by maximizing the capacity of existing bandwidth.