In the era of 5G, nothing can stop its momentum. Major telecom operators are already making strategic adjustments in network development. Tang Xiongyan, a senior expert at China Unicom's Network Technology Research Institute, emphasized that China Unicom will focus on 5G optical communication as a key area. He highlighted that WDM/OTN technology is set to become the mainstream solution for future 5G networks.
Additionally, Tang revealed that China Unicom is preparing to release a white paper on the 5G transport network in October. “The document is currently in the drafting stage and is expected to be officially launched next month,†he said.
Tang Xiongyan, Chief Expert of China Unicom Network Technology Research Institute
**5G: A Major Opportunity for Network Reconfiguration**
5G has become a major topic across industries. According to Tang Xiongyan, “5G is not just a new generation of mobile communication; it represents the integration of various IT technologies and is a significant opportunity for reconfiguring the network. It’s not only a technological shift but also an industry transformation and cross-border expansion. The potential for future innovation is immense.â€
There are two global definitions of 5G: one focuses on ubiquitous connectivity, while the other emphasizes network intelligence.
When comparing 4G to 5G, and 2G to 3G to 4G, Tang believes that the 5G era will bring substantial wireless technology advancements and broader spectrum usage, ranging from low-frequency to ultra-high-frequency bands. “From a network perspective, the evolution from 2G to 3G/4G was from TDM to IP, with limited infrastructure changes. However, the transition from 4G to 5G is revolutionary—networks are moving toward large-scale cloud computing, and the overall architecture remains wireless access-based.â€
As the Internet of Everything continues to expand, the business model is evolving rapidly. Currently, the internet industry dominates, with OTT services leading the way, while traditional carrier ICT sectors are experiencing a decline.
Tang noted that for operators, 5G presents both opportunities and challenges, requiring a new technological and business environment.
He outlined several key aspects of 5G network development, including wireless function reconstruction and cloudification, such as CU/DU separation, DU/AAU separation, and CU cloudization. Edge computing, core network cloudification (UP/DL separation), and virtualization are also critical. Additionally, the bearer network will see new developments beyond direct 5G-related elements.
The overall cloudification of the network is indirectly linked to 5G. “Since all network elements must be placed in data centers, the transmission and bearer of the entire cloud network relate to 5G. As 5G develops, it brings about network changes, introducing new traffic patterns. While not directly tied to 5G, the transport network must adapt to cloud environments, requiring a more flexible system.â€
**5G Bearers Face Five Challenges**
“Before 5G is fully rolled out, the bearer network must be ready,†Tang emphasized. He outlined five key challenges:
1. **Uncertainty in 5G Architecture**: Although the basic structure of 5G is fixed, specific details remain unclear. The form of wireless equipment is still under development, and the construction plan is uncertain.
2. **Diverse Business Scenarios**: Different use cases like eMBB, mMTC, and uRLLC have varying network demands, potentially increasing transmission costs.
3. **Diverse Transmission Methods**: 5G supports multiple transmission methods, including fiber, WDM, OTN, IP, and PON. Choosing the best option becomes complex during decision-making.
4. **Cost Uncertainty**: Cost is a critical factor, and it can change rapidly. Some high-cost components today may become cheaper quickly.
5. **Network Status Variability**: Each operator has different network infrastructures and technologies, leading to varied challenges.
**5G Development: Embrace Pragmatism**
At the meeting, Tang shared six suggestions for 5G development, emphasizing the importance of being "pragmatic."
1. **Demand-Driven Approach**: Focus on meeting the fundamental needs of 5G development, using special methods for extreme requirements.
2. **Practical Solutions**: Use mature technologies and existing resources where possible, aiming for cost efficiency and performance improvement.
3. **Simplify the Network**: Aim for stable and mature infrastructure by keeping the network design simple.
4. **Focus on Cost**: Operators face ongoing cost pressures. 5G development should prioritize cost reduction through innovation and scale.
5. **Step-by-Step Implementation**: Avoid over-investment. Tailor the network construction to local conditions and proceed gradually.
6. **Open Systems**: Embrace openness as a trend, allowing room for future innovations.
**5G Bearer: Light-Based, WDM/OTN as the Future**
Although 5G transmission is crucial, it is not the main bottleneck. Optical communication can meet 5G needs, provided costs are managed effectively.
Based on bandwidth, latency, synchronization, and infrastructure considerations, Tang suggested that “light-based, WDM/OTN-driven bearer technology is the optimal solution for 5G.†For the front-haul, 25G ports are essential, with fiber or WDM solutions depending on the scenario. For the mid-haul, OTN is ideal, especially 100G systems, which are well-established. In the backhaul, large bandwidths will require OTN, combined with SDN, IP, and optical technologies for flexible scheduling.
Ultimately, Tang concluded, “Optical communication can meet 5G needs, and there are many options available. The key is to choose the most suitable technology based on local conditions, ensuring a balance between cost and performance. Innovation must go hand in hand with pragmatism.â€
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