Ulf Ewaldsson

5G Physical Layer (5G Series - Part 17) In 5G, radio resources are flexibly assigned in both time and frequency, allowing for optimized connectivity. For instance, with subcarrier spacing (like 15kHz in a numerology of 0), we see how downlink resources are allocated, beginning with essential signals: Synchronization Signals: Help users initially access the network. SSB (Synchronization signal block) consists of PSS, SSS, PBCH & PBCH-DMRS. Multiple SSB used in NR for different beams with distinguished pattern. It can also be used by the UE for RSRP and RSRQ measurements. Broadcast Channels: Provide vital network information. Control Channels: Manage scheduling and coordination. Shared Channels: Deliver user data, aided by reference signals that assess channel quality. To illustrate, let’s look at a high-frequency band (50MHz channel bandwidth) with a 10ms frame. Visualizing it on a grid: X-axis (time) shows OFDM symbols (slots). Y-axis (frequency) represents resource blocks (RBs), which vary with subcarrier spacing (e.g., 66 RBs at 60kHz spacing). 5G's flexible resource allocation, tailored by channel needs and spacing, is pivotal for enhanced connectivity and performance. To learn about 5G technology in detail, visit - https://lnkd.in/eSYuK9V7 #telecom #technology #learning #platform #itelcotech #academia

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I’ve written another piece on US #spectrum policy & #mobile bands - and what should be done in preparation for #WRC27 over the next 3 years. This is part of my ongoing focus on global spectrum-sharing policy, as well as my advisory work with SFTF. This time it has been published via Fierce Network. My view is that the US should directly engage with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) process at multiple levels, to push for greater understanding and technological innovation in sharing approaches. In particular the focus of IMT (ie #5G & #6G) spectrum should be on regulators assuming a “sharing-native” future in the 2030s, instead of the historic focus of assigning exclusive licences. This should be reflected in any figure IMT identifications & footnotes. In addition, it should be a core part of the various study groups and working parties’ efforts. There also needs to be far more realism about mobile traffic on the international stage - its flattening growth, the many non-credible forecasts, its localisation to specific areas & the impact of aspects such as FWA and indoor use. A critical aspect is dealing with the proposed IMT study bands for WRC-27, which seem “coincidentally” to be exactly the same as those used within NATO for military communications. At the moment, the US #CBRS band is one of the leading examples of dynamic spectrum sharing in practice. The work by NTIA & NSF is also advancing the technological base, including the role of AI. It should be advocating this work more globally, especially at ITU. But first, the mainstream US mobile industry needs to get onboard. #spectrumpolicy #telecompolicy #technology #regulation

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Some big announcements this week related to the use of #AI in Telco Mobile Networks. Timing couldn't be better as Spectrum Effect was just this week awarded the patent for the use of AI and Machine Learning Models for classifying interference types in Mobile Operator RAN networks. I have strong conviction on AI's ability to drive more efficient and effective operations of mobility networks and ultimately better outcomes for consumers of the services that mobile networks enable. We are in fantastic company to be joined on this journey with the NVIDIA, Ericsson, Nokia, and T-Mobile announcing their intentions to invest in this space. https://lnkd.in/ebB4BM9X

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The future of wireless services of all types is likely to involve more spectrum-sharing and other more sophisticated approaches to #spectrum assignment and management. This applies to #5G, #6G, #WiFi, #satellite, audiovisual and various classes of aviation and martime networks, as well as government and defence usage. Sharing will occur based on multiple dimensions - location, duration, directionality, power and obviously frequency. That, in turn, will require a range of key enablers, including technological components such as spectrum databases, sensing systems, better transceivers, mapping tools, cross-technology signalling and much more. There will also need to be streamlined regulatory processes, spectrum marketplaces, and a whole variety of use-cases for AI + spectrum. There will also be a need for more international cooperation and (hopefully) eventual harmonisation. The evolution of spectrum-sharing is a central theme for me at the moment, and something that regularly crops up in my discussions with regulators, operators, vendors and investors. I've written a guest article for my client CRFS (a spectrum-sensing vendor) which discusses this in more detail. https://lnkd.in/esxTh_Yf

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JUST RELEASED: stc's white-paper highlights 5G network densification as a strategy to enhance connectivity, coverage and capacity through macro and small cells, supported by AI, Machine Learning, beamforming, and massive MIMO. It presents AI-driven planning strategy to address the challenges of providing 5G connectivity to urban, suburban and remote areas. Furthermore, it motivates discussion on ways to enable new use cases, such as IoT, AR/VR, and autonomous systems. Please, enjoy your reading. 💟 Reach out to us to discuss growth opportunities in the telecom industry 💟 To gain monthly insights on #technology and #innovations, subscribe to #global5gevolution newsletter (https://lnkd.in/ge9gsyjE) and tune in for the latest edition on “5G Monetisation” 💟 Or subscribe to #global5gevolution YouTube channel (https://lnkd.in/g8M7YvKq) and tune in for the latest episode on “Cyber Space Robotic 5G” ; click comment box #5G #6G #AI 💟 Follow us on Kaneshwaran Govindasamy & Global 5G Evolution

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Dynamic Spectrum Sharing and Multi-RAT Spectrum Sharing Through O-RAN Architecture The challenge of limited spectrum availability complicates the transition from 5G to 6G. To address this challenge, simplifying spectrum migration is essential. The integration of Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) within the O-RAN ALLIANCE O-RAN architecture through the use of RIC and SMO offers a promising approach to managing spectrum efficiently as mobile networks evolve. By leveraging advanced RIC AI/ML algorithms and comprehensive data analytics, O-RAN enables dynamic and intelligent spectrum sharing between 5G and 6G. ◼ Implementation of DSS in O-RAN O-RAN facilitates this through its RIC and SMO components. Steps to Implement DSS in O-RAN Step 1: Policy Development and Communication Non-RT RIC: Develops and updates long-term DSS policies based on broad and historical network data, traffic patterns, and predictions. Communication: These policies are communicated to Near-RT RIC via the A1 interface. Step 2: Real-Time Decision Making Near-RT RIC: Receives policies and translates them into actionable, real-time decisions using xApps (applications running in the RIC). It handles the immediate adaptation of spectrum allocation between for example 4G and 5G networks. Step 3: Configuration and Enforcement RAN via E2 interface: Implements the DSS decisions to configure network elements for dynamic spectrum sharing, ensuring efficient resource utilization and optimal service delivery. Integration with SMO SMO Role: Manages overall orchestration and lifecycle management of network functions and service capabilities. It also plays a crucial role in gathering and disseminating data across RICs and network elements. ◼ Training Dataset and Data Collection in SMO/RIC Accurate and comprehensive datasets are essential for training the AI/ML models deployed within the RIC to predict traffic patterns, manage resources, and make informed DSS decisions. The effectiveness of DSS heavily relies on the quality and comprehensiveness of these datasets. Data Collection in SMO/RIC Non-RT RIC Long-Term Data Collection: Aggregates extensive historical network performance data, user mobility patterns, and service usage statistics. Data Sources: Includes external databases, network logs, and telemetry from various network elements interfaced through the O1 and O2 protocols. Near-RT RIC Real-Time Data Collection: Focuses on real-time network states, quality metrics like SINR, throughput levels, and user equipment reports. Dynamic Adaptation: Utilizes this real-time data to adapt and optimize the spectrum sharing dynamically, supporting the continuous tuning of DSS policies. DSS and MRSS capabilities will be essential for the deployment of 5G and beyond, as it ensures that existing services are not disrupted while new services are rolled out. #SpectrumEngineering #ORAN #OpenRAN #SpectrumSharing #DynamicSpectrumSharing #MultiRATSpectrumSharing #6G #SMO #RIC #SpectrumEfficiency

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The dawn of 6G mobile networks brings forth the potential to revolutionize how we perceive our surroundings and interact with objects, opening doors to groundbreaking applications. The question arises: is this advancement a practical and promising endeavor, or merely a ploy to entice telecommunications companies into further investments? As the industry continues to ponder the implications of 5G, the anticipation and skepticism surrounding the capabilities of 6G persist. #5G #6G #TechnologyEvolution

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Transmis par James Bennett (https://lnkd.in/eKjSzn9W) : I hope all is well with you. I would like to introduce our latest research report on private 5G networks. Unlike our previous publications on private LTE/5G networks, which cover both LTE and 5G technologies, the "Private 5G Networks: 2024 – 2030" report exclusively focuses on the market for private networks based on 3GPP-defined 5G specifications. In addition to detailed market analysis and forecasts, the report also includes our Q2'2024 updated database of over 7,000 global private cellular engagements, including more than 2,200 private 5G installations. Let me know if you would like to view an extended sample or wish to acquire the full report. The key findings of the report can be viewed here: https://lnkd.in/eReSn9e4

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Excellent post by Javier Domínguez Lacasa about spectrum policy for midband Midband is the lifeline for Telcos to provide high-speed and reliable data services. There is no other spectrum band that offers the reach, bandwidth, and properties like midband. Unfortunately, this is a scarce resource and extremely expensive. As a scarce resource, regulators need to prioritize the benefits of the majority of users who connect daily to these services. Consider this: effective spectrum allocation can enhance network capacity by up to 50%, which directly improves service quality and user satisfaction. With 5G technology expected to cover one-third of the world’s population by 2025, the efficient use of midband spectrum becomes even more crucial. This band is essential for enabling advancements in IoT, smart cities, and autonomous vehicles, and its optimal use could significantly boost these developments. Moreover, the economic implications are substantial. A 10% increase in mobile broadband penetration can lead to a 1.5% rise in GDP in developing economies. This highlights the critical role of midband spectrum in driving not only technological innovation but also economic growth and digital inclusion. https://lnkd.in/gYtybk_s #Telecommunications #Midband #SpectrumPolicy #Connectivity #Innovation

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In Ericsson's latest results on TelecomTV. Vonage suffered a 7% year-on-year decline in revenues to SEK3.8bn ($361m). https://lnkd.in/eViatYkS Back in Q1 2022 Vonage’s total revenue was $359M, almost the same, which split into: * Consumer – $62M. Shrinking as they transition to a pure business focus. * VoIP/UC/CC – $123M * API (SMS, voice, video) – $162M of which the bulk (90%) is likely SMS * Product revenues as businesses still need phones – $12M Reviewed here: https://lnkd.in/eHpZzQp8 In 2020/2021/2022 programmable communications was growing at 30+%. Growth has slowed to 5% for the likes of Twilio. And Vonage is back to Q1 2022 revenue numbers! The hope is network APIs will change the situation for Ericsson/Vonage. I've explained why that is a false hope. There will be NaaS (Network as a Service) revenues, https://lnkd.in/eHpZzQp8, where Network APIs augment existing NaaS solutions. I had a fun conversation with an 'app' developer yesterday that had been interviewed by a vendor pushing P5G and Network APIs to telcos. They summarized the interview as, 'they didn't like what I had to say.' Ericsson, all you had to do was follow my blog.

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Ofcom's just published its Connected Nations report, which says that average traffic per fixed line is 531 GB. Ofcom notes that this figure is not comparable to prior years (eg 535 GB last year) because "For 2024, we collected data usage measurements aggregated at the Optical Line Terminal (OLT) or headend, rather than on a ‘per line’ data usage basis as in previous years". I admit I'm not clear on the significance of this change. Can anyone illuminate why this approach would give different numbers, and if those numbers would likely be higher or lower than those from the previous methodology?

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The "AI Telco energy savings" paradox AI for Telcos offers amazing efficiencies, such as potentially slicing up to 10%-20 off base station energy consumption. On the other hand, it feeds an ever-growing beast—AI data centers—projected to devour a staggering 25% of US energy by 2030. It's much like turning off the lights to save electricity, only to power a small town with your backyard carnival every night. AI effectiveness in optimizing networks is unmatched, but we must also confront the shadow it cast: a voracious energy appetite that could undermine Telco sustainability goals. https://lnkd.in/gydmwaFy

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Support from countries representing 60% of the global population is significant and sets the stage for more countries to identify the 6 GHz band for mobile/IMT. Inclusion of the band in national spectrum roadmaps for IMT is crucial for mid-band spectrum needs for future (at least till 2030) and industry confidence to continue to invest in 5G, 5G advanced and ultimately towards 6G. #spectrum #6GHz #5G #DigitalIndia

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For a green field operator (mobile or converged), going for 5G is a relatively straightforward decision. But for a brownfield operator, the decision is based on multiple factors, including but not limited to, existing investments (2G, 3G, 4G), O&M complications and cost of running parallel networks, spectrum and regulatory issues, compelling use cases (consumer (ex:- smart home, CIoT), enterprise (IT), industrial (OT) (ex:- IIoT)). I agree with you David on the actionable insights you shared in our panel. Given that 5G is E2E IP and virtualized by design, moving from VNFs to CNFs (Cloud Native) and Open{Source, RAN, API, ..} will make things easier to deploy, manage, and scale while keeping the TCO down. However, going in that direction requires, especially for incumbent/brownfield operators, a talented team (or a trusted partner) who has skills, knowledge, education, and more importantly the confidence to run this type of system. Given the vibrant ecosystem we now have around "open", this is not a big challenge, provided the operator has visionary and brave leadership.

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Quantum technology will be enormously disruptive. #Quantum computers have the potential, for instance, to accelerate drug development and help enterprises increase energy optimization, but quantum computing will also create new security threats unless we innovate quantum-safe encryption and introduce quantum-secure networks.   Nokia is at the forefront of quantum research. Watch our Michael Eggleston, Data & Devices Group Leader for Nokia Bell Labs talk about the central role of #networks in a quantum future.

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Technology-neutral licensing or Technology-neutrality (commonly known as spectrum refarming) is the ability to refarm spectrum used for legacy networks (#2G and #3G) for #4G and #5G services, at a pace driven by market demand. In general terms, technology neutrality refers to the repurposing of spectrum bands to more efficient technologies. Technology neutrality is an important enabler of legacy network sunsets. The initial rollout of 4G in many pioneer markets was based on technology neutrality and spectrum refarming. As of the middle of the last decade, nearly half of 4G deployments globally were running on refarmed 2G and 3G spectrum. Between 2015 and mid-August 2023, a total of 91 networks were shut down, of which 43 were 2G networks and 48 were 3G networks. At least 148 networks will be shut down between Q4 2023 and 2030, based on announced plans from operators.

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Ericsson's Special issue Nov Edition: Telecom evolution toward #6G Key Highlights 🧊5G evolution toward 5G Advanced: An overview of 3GPP releases 17 &18 3GPP has already announced its decision to recognize Rel-18 as the first release of 5GAdvanced to highlight the significant evolution of the 5G System (5GS) that it represents The path toward 5G Advanced begins with Rel-17, which includes significant enhancements to several RAN functionalities that are already deployed in live NR networks -Beamforming & multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) -Dynamic spectrum sharing -User equipment power savings -Positioning -Ultra-reliable, low-latency communication -NR coverage -Small data transmission -Non-public networks -Edge computing -Data networks analytics -Reduced-capability user equipment -Non-terrestrial networks (NTN) -NR beyond 52.6GHz -Multicast and broadcast service 3GPP release 18 – introducing 5G Advanced -Key enhancements for e-MBB use cases -Key enhancements for non-eMBB use cases -Cross-domain functionalities for both MBB & non-MBB use cases 🧊6G network architecture– a proposal for early alignment Network architecture in the 6G time frame of 2030; fall into four main categories 1. Enablers of monetization and exposure 2. Automation of network operations 3. Cloud-native design & deployment 4. Network architecture evolution Three main aspects of network architecture evolution that require early industry alignment: 1. Migration & spectrum aggregation 2. Radio-access network architecture evolution 3. Core network architecture evolution Ericsson believes that 6G should be specified in standalone mode only* 🧊Beyond bit-pipes – new opportunities on the 6G platform The role of network platforms -Communication is a cornerstone of all forms of digital business, with networking capabilities setting the boundaries for what can be achieved. Beyond serving as communication tools, today’s networks can also provide: • Tailored & engineered connectivity services, such as QoS guarantees • Information services from traditional positioning information to potential network-based radio-sensing services, the ability to understand the communication status and predicted performance • Value-adding auxiliary services such as computational device offloading or AI as a service, services for distributing large amounts of data, or supporting digital twins Creating a bridge between the connectivity & application business ecosystems is a key objective for 6G 🧊Approaching AI-native RANs through generalization & scalability of learning A holistic vision of an AI-native RAN would be a system designed for AI algorithms, in which a single AI algorithm could learn and govern most networking operations, ranging from the physical layer to Radio Resource Management (RRM) 🎯Follow us on Kaneshwaran Govindasamy & Global 5G Evolution 🎯Check out this month's conference #5g #monetization debate 👇🏽 🎯Click comment box subscribe our #youtube channel #5G

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Download the report on CPaaS API vs Network APIs     This report, written by Dean Bubley at Disruptive Analysis, clears the industry's confusion about CPaaS APIs vs. #NetworkAPIs and explains their roles in unleashing programmable network capabilities.

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