Sign in Subscribe

5g nr cell identity

Last updated on 

The 5G New Radio (NR) cell identity is a fundamental concept in 5G cellular networks. It is a unique identifier assigned to each cell in the network, allowing mobile devices to identify and connect to a specific cell. The cell identity is crucial for various network functions, including handovers, cell selection, and cell reselection. In 5G NR, the cell identity is part of the cell-specific information broadcast by the cell, allowing devices to discover and connect to the network.

Here's a technical explanation of the 5G NR cell identity:

  1. Cell Identity Format:
    • In 5G NR, the cell identity is represented as a 36-bit value.
    • The 36 bits are further divided into two parts: PLMN-Id (Public Land Mobile Network Identity) and NCI (NR Cell Identity).
  2. PLMN-Id (PLMN Identifier):
    • PLMN-Id is a PLMN identifier that uniquely identifies a PLMN (Public Land Mobile Network).
    • It consists of the Mobile Country Code (MCC) and Mobile Network Code (MNC).
    • The MCC is a three-digit code that identifies the country, and the MNC is a two- or three-digit code that identifies the specific mobile network within that country.
  3. NCI (NR Cell Identity):
    • The NR Cell Identity is the unique identifier for a cell within a PLMN.
    • It is a 36-bit value and is divided into two subfields: NR Cell Identity (NR-CI) and NR Cell Identity Group (NR-CI-Group).
  4. NR Cell Identity (NR-CI):
    • NR-CI is a 28-bit value representing the unique identity of the cell within the PLMN.
    • It is broadcast by the cell and is used by the devices to identify and connect to the specific cell.
  5. NR Cell Identity Group (NR-CI-Group):
    • NR-CI-Group is an 8-bit value that provides additional information about the cell.
    • It helps in grouping cells with similar characteristics, facilitating efficient cell reselection by devices.
  6. Broadcasting:
    • The cell identity information is broadcast periodically by the cell using system information blocks (SIBs).
    • Devices in the coverage area can decode this information to identify and connect to the cell.
  7. Mobility and Handovers:
    • The cell identity is essential for mobility management, including handovers between cells.
    • As a device moves through the network, it monitors neighboring cells and uses the cell identity information to decide when to perform a handover.

The 5G NR cell identity is a 36-bit value comprising PLMN-Id and NCI. It is broadcast by the cell to facilitate device connectivity, cell selection, and mobility management within the 5G network. The NR-CI uniquely identifies the cell, while the NR-CI-Group provides additional information for efficient cell reselection.