On analyzing beamforming implementation in O-RAN 5G

Mustafa Mohsin, Jordi Mongay Batalla, Evangelos Pallis, George Mastorakis, Evangelos K. Markakis, Constandinos X. Mavromoustakis

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The open radio access network (O-RAN) concept is changing the landscape of mobile networks (5G deployment and 6G research). O-RAN Alliance’s suggestions that O-RAN can offer openness and intelligence to the traditional RAN vendors will enable the capability for multi-vendors to re-shape the RAN structure and optimize the network. This paper positions the main research challenges of the O-RAN approach in regards= to the implementation of beamforming. We investigate the O-RAN architecture and the configurations of the interfaces between O-RAN units and present the split options between the radio and distributing units in terms of O-RAN specification and 3GPP standards. From this point, we discuss the beamforming methods in O-RAN, addressing challenges and potential solutions, and suggest the introduction of the zero-forcing equalizer as a precoding vector in the channel-information-based beamforming method. This may be one of the solutions for achieving flexibility in a high-traffic communication environment while reducing the radio unit interferences caused by implanting the precoding in the open radio unit.

Original languageEnglish
Article number2162
JournalElectronics (Switzerland)
Volume10
Issue number17
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2021

Keywords

  • 5G
  • Beamforming
  • Massive MIMO
  • O-RAN
  • Open interface
  • Radio access network

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