Top Challenges in 5G Densification

摘要

The current report attempts to explore the top challenges that the MNOs need to overcome during 5G deployment in highly dense populated areas. Indica-tively, the MNOs are warned about site acquisition challenges and electrification/energy related needs for a huge number of sites that shall be installed discretely at street level, the demand for rigorous testing and measurements to ensure full network coverage and always-on operation so that even mission critical applications (such as automotive and e-health apps) are enabled, accompanied by associated cost factors. Provided that at the time of writing (beg/2021) little is the worldwide experience from operating 5G networks, potential actions are suggested towards a smooth and efficient short time-to-market 5G deployment. In addition, indicative 5G densification related figures (e.g. amount of h/w nodes and distances among them), are calculated based on a specific FiWi PtMP network solution aiming at supporting the ultra-broadband 5G NR fronthaul bandwidth, while alleviating the need to install fiber terminations at every Base Station site.