New iGR white paper discusses the process of moving to a Cloud RAN architecture

Sponsored by CommScope, the white paper also discusses the specific advantages of edge data centers


AUSTIN, TX--(Marketwired - October 25, 2016) - Mobile network infrastructure, such as the Radio Access Network (RAN), has traditionally used industry-specific hardware owned and operated by mobile operators. Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Network Function Virtualization (NFV), and Cloud Radio Access Network (C-RAN) are among the initiatives breaking that tradition. The result is that the RAN and Evolved Packet Core (EPC) applications are adapting to run on centralized off-the-shelf IT infrastructure that utilizes fronthaul connections to connect to the RAN nodes.

iGR, a market research consultancy focused on the wireless and mobile industry, has explored the process of moving from today's conventional Remote Radio Head (RRH) deployment, where the Baseband Units (BBU) are deployed at the base of the cell tower, to an architecture in which the BBUs are deployed in one or more centralized locations.

"As part of the move to 5G, the mobile network architecture will continue to evolve," said Iain Gillott, president and founder of iGR. "Cloud RAN environments, where clusters of BBUs are housed together, provide many benefits, including both cost savings and flexibility."

In its most recent white paper, Moving to Cloud RAN and the Potential of Edge Data Centers, iGR discusses the typical phases needed to move to a Cloud RAN architecture, the benefits of such an architecture, and the additional benefits of edge data centers.

The following key questions are addressed in the white paper:

  • What does a traditional Remote Radio Head deployment architecture look like?
  • What is the difference between a centralized RAN architecture and a cloud RAN architecture?
  • What is CPRI? What are its requirements and why are they important?
  • What are the benefits of a cloud RAN architecture?
  • How can edge data centers be used for Baseband Unit (BBU) hosting?

iGR's new white paper, Moving to Cloud RAN and the Potential of Edge Data Centers, can be downloaded at no charge directly from iGR's website.

About iGR

iGR is a market strategy consultancy focused on the wireless and mobile communications industry. Founded by Iain Gillott, one of the wireless industry's leading analysts, in late 2000 as iGillottResearch, iGR is now in its sixteenth year of operation. iGR continuously researches emerging and existent technologies, technology industries, and consumer markets. We use our detailed research to offer a range of services to help companies improve their position in the marketplace, clearly define their future direction, and ultimately improve their bottom line.

iGR researches a range of wireless and mobile products and technologies, including: smartphones; tablets; mobile wearable devices; connected cars; mobile applications; bandwidth demand and use; small cell and het-net architectures; mobile EPC and RAN virtualization; DAS; LTE; VoLTE; IMS; NFC; GSM/GPRS/UMTS/HSPA; CDMA 1x/EV-DO; iDEN; SIP; macro-, pico- and femtocells; mobile backhaul; WiFi and WiFi offload; and SIM and UICC.

A more complete profile of the company can be found at www.igr-inc.com.

About CommScope

CommScope helps companies around the world design, build and manage their wired and wireless networks. Our vast portfolio of network infrastructure includes some of the world's most robust and innovative wireless and fiber optic solutions. Our talented and experienced global team is driven to help customers increase bandwidth; maximize existing capacity; improve network performance and availability; increase energy efficiency; and simplify technology migration. You will find our solutions in the largest buildings, venues and outdoor spaces; in data centers and buildings of all shapes, sizes and complexity; at wireless cell sites; in telecom central offices and cable head ends; in FTTx deployments; and in airports, trains, and tunnels. Vital networks around the world run on CommScope solutions.

Contact Information:

Contact iGR
Iain Gillott