As a catalyst for improved network performance and user experience, 5G-A serves as a vital platform for exploring new business models and fostering growth, making it a key focus for operators seeking fresh prospects in a saturated market.
The transition from 5G to 5G-A is designed to be smooth and evolutionary for operators. The likely paths include: Software Upgrades, Hardware Enhancements and Network Optimization. (Operators can leverage network slicing and other optimization techniques to gradually integrate 5G-A features into their existing networks.)
For typical use cases such as passive IoT and RedCap, operators mainly make adjutsments to the front-end hardware through network optimization and software upgrades to ensure the best network performance and user experience.
5G-A builds on the foundation of 5G, but it introduces a number of key technologies that will enable faster speeds, lower latency, and greater network capacity. Some of the key technologies that are enabling the move to 5G-A include:
· RedCap evolution: RedCap is a core network function that dynamically allocates resources between users and devices. It resides within the 5GC and plays a crucial role in managing network traffic efficiently, especially for the diverse range of applications 5G-A will support.
· Multi-SIM: This will allow devices to have multiple SIM cards, which could be used to provide access to different networks or services.
· Multi-band Serving Cell (MBSC): MBSC allows a single cell site to utilize multiple frequency bands simultaneously. This provides greater flexibility and efficiency in spectrum usage. With 5G-A, MBSC can be further enhanced to intelligently manage and combine signals from different bands to deliver optimal performance for users based on their device capabilities and network needs.
· Self-Organizing Network/Minimization of Drive Test (SON/MDT): SON automates network configuration and management, while MDT streamlines network verification, reducing operational complexity and costs.
· Autonomous Driving Network (ADN)
· Smart Repeaters
· Expanded Positioniong
· Multicast Enhancement
· Passive IoT
...
By embracing 5G-A, operators can unlock a new era of network performance, user experience, and business opportunities, solidifying their position in a competitive market.
