What's Happening?
AT&T is conducting tests on Ericsson and 1Finity small cell radios within its open radio access network (RAN) in Dallas. This benchmark study, carried out by Signals Research Group, aims to evaluate the performance of these vendors' small cells as part
of AT&T's broader network rollout strategy. The tests involve 1Finity (formerly Fujitsu) 5G small cell radio units (RUs), Ericsson small cell RUs, and distributed units (DUs) in a 5G non-standalone (NSA) network architecture. The findings indicate that the performance of 1Finity RUs is largely on par with Ericsson's, setting the stage for larger scale deployments later this year. The deployment is described as 'borderline commercial,' with smartphones able to connect to the network, though it is still undergoing testing and adjustments.
Why It's Important?
This development is significant as it represents a key step in AT&T's strategy to modernize its wireless network infrastructure. By testing and potentially deploying a mix of Ericsson and 1Finity equipment, AT&T aims to enhance its network capacity and coverage, particularly in major markets. The move away from Nokia to other vendors like 1Finity could signal a shift in vendor relationships and influence the competitive landscape in the telecommunications industry. Successful implementation of open RAN could lead to more flexible and cost-effective network solutions, benefiting both the company and its customers through improved service quality and potentially lower costs.
What's Next?
AT&T plans to expand the deployment of these small cell open RAN systems to at least two major markets later this year. This expansion will involve replacing low-power small cells from another vendor with 1Finity's mid-power small cell RUs. The future network configuration will include a combination of mid-power small cell RUs from 1Finity and high- and low-power RUs from Ericsson, along with Ericsson DUs. Further testing is anticipated to assess the performance improvements post-expansion, which could provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of open RAN deployments.
Beyond the Headlines
The adoption of open RAN technology by AT&T, despite skepticism about its true openness, could have broader implications for the telecommunications industry. It challenges traditional vendor lock-in models and promotes interoperability among different equipment suppliers. This could lead to increased innovation and competition, potentially driving down costs and accelerating the deployment of advanced network technologies. However, the success of such initiatives depends on overcoming technical and operational challenges associated with integrating equipment from multiple vendors.
