In the era of 5G, nothing can stop its momentum. Once again, major telecom operators have made significant adjustments in their network infrastructure. Tang Xiongyan, a senior expert at China Unicom’s Network Technology Research Institute, emphasized that the development of 5G networks will focus on optical communication. He stated that WDM (Wavelength Division Multiplexing) and OTN (Optical Transport Network) will become the dominant technologies in the future, offering the most efficient and scalable solution.
Additionally, Tang revealed that China Unicom is preparing to release a white paper on the 5G backhaul network in October. “The document is currently in draft form and will be officially launched next month,†he said. The image below illustrates how 5G relies heavily on optical technology, with WDM/OTN playing a central role in the future network architecture.
*Tang Xiongyan, Chief Expert of China Unicom Network Technology Research Institute*
**5G: A Major Opportunity for Network Reconfiguration**
Tang Xiongyan highlighted that 5G is more than just a new generation of mobile communication—it represents the convergence of various IT technologies and marks a major opportunity for network reconfiguration. “5G is not only a technological shift but also an industry transformation, driving cross-border expansion and creating new possibilities for the future,†he explained.
There are two main global definitions for 5G: ubiquitous connectivity and network intelligence. When comparing 5G to previous generations like 4G or 2G, Tang noted that 5G will bring more wireless innovations and spectrum expansion, moving from low-frequency to ultra-high-frequency bands.
From a network perspective, the evolution from 2G to 3G and 4G was primarily about transitioning from TDM to IP. However, the shift from 4G to 5G involves a more fundamental change, including large-scale cloud networking and a more flexible network architecture. These changes are considered revolutionary.
As the Internet of Everything continues to expand, industries are undergoing significant transformations. Currently, the OTT (Over-The-Top) model dominates, while traditional carrier ICT services are declining. For operators, 5G presents both opportunities and challenges, requiring them to adapt to a new technical and business environment.
**Key Aspects of 5G Networks**
Tang outlined several critical elements in 5G network development, including the reconstruction and cloudification of wireless functions, such as CU/DU separation, DU/AAU separation, and CU cloudification. Network slicing, NFV (Network Functions Virtualization), and SDN (Software-Defined Networking) will play key roles. Edge computing and the cloudification of the core network, including UP/DL separation and virtualization, are also essential.
Moreover, the overall cloudification of the network is closely linked to 5G. With all network elements being placed in data centers, the transmission and bearer systems must evolve to support this shift. This requires a more flexible transport network capable of handling new traffic patterns introduced by 5G.
**Challenges Facing 5G Bearers**
Tang identified five major challenges for 5G bearers:
1. **Uncertainty in 5G Architecture**: While the basic structure is defined, specific details remain unclear. Equipment forms, deployment strategies, and market growth are still uncertain.
2. **Diverse Business Scenarios**: eMBB (Enhanced Mobile Broadband), mMTC (Massive Machine Type Communication), and uRLLC (Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication) each have different requirements, leading to increased transmission costs.
3. **Diverse Transmission Methods**: 5G supports multiple transmission techniques, including fiber, WDM, OTN, IP, and PON. Choosing the right method remains a challenge.
4. **Cost Uncertainty**: Costs are dynamic and may decrease rapidly over time, especially for optoelectronic devices.
5. **Differences in Network Status**: Each operator has unique network infrastructures and technological capabilities.
**Pragmatic Approach to 5G Development**
At the conference, Tang proposed six guiding principles for 5G development, emphasizing the importance of being "pragmatic." These include:
1. **Demand-Driven**: Focus on meeting core 5G needs and addressing special requirements with tailored solutions.
2. **Practical Solutions**: Use mature technologies and industrial resources when available to reduce costs and improve performance.
3. **Simplify Network Architecture**: Prioritize stable, mature, and simple infrastructures.
4. **Cost Management**: Consider cost pressures and promote innovation to reduce high-frequency and optoelectronic device costs.
5. **Step-by-Step Implementation**: Avoid over-investment; adopt a gradual and tailored approach to 5G construction.
6. **Open Systems**: Encourage openness and flexibility to accommodate future advancements.
**Optical Communication as the Core of 5G Bearers**
Although 5G transmission is crucial, it is not the bottleneck. Optical communication can fully meet 5G demands, provided that costs are optimized. Based on bandwidth, latency, synchronization, and infrastructure considerations, Tang believes that an optical-based solution using WDM/OTN is the best choice.
For the front-haul, 25G port rates will become standard. In fiber-rich environments, direct fiber connection is ideal, while in low-fiber scenarios, WDM/G.Metro is recommended. Cost remains a key factor, so collaboration across the industry to develop affordable 25G optical modules is essential.
In the middle-haul, current IPRAN devices may lack sufficient bandwidth and dynamic performance. OTN, particularly 100G OTN, offers a reliable solution. Pe-OTN can handle L2 packet functions effectively.
For the backhaul, a three-layer system combining OTN with IP/MPLS/SR/EVPN and SDN is recommended. IP+Light is the preferred approach, with OTN enabling high-bandwidth transmission up to hundreds of Gbps or even Tbps. Network cloudification and SDN-based centralized control are essential, along with flexible scheduling via ODUflex, FlexO, and FlexE.
In conclusion, Tang emphasized that optical communication can meet 5G needs, and the key lies in selecting the most suitable technology based on local conditions. TCU (Total Cost of Ownership) and cost-performance are vital, and while innovation is important, a pragmatic approach is equally necessary.
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