Sign in Subscribe

open ran specifications

Last updated on 

Open RAN specifications may have evolved, and it's recommended to check the latest documentation for the most up-to-date information. Here's a technical overview of Open RAN based on the information available at that time:

  1. Centralized Unit (CU):
    • The Centralized Unit is responsible for non-real-time processing tasks, such as scheduling, resource allocation, and connection establishment.
    • It communicates with the Distributed Unit (DU) through open interfaces.
  2. Distributed Unit (DU):
    • The Distributed Unit is responsible for real-time processing tasks, such as radio processing and baseband functions.
    • It communicates with the Radio Unit (RU) and Centralized Unit (CU) through open interfaces.
  3. Radio Unit (RU):
    • The Radio Unit is responsible for converting digital signals into analog radio signals and vice versa.
    • It communicates with the Distributed Unit (DU) through open interfaces.
  4. Open RAN Interfaces:
    • Open RAN relies on open interfaces that enable interoperability between different vendors' equipment. Some key interfaces include:
      • E1 (FH) Interface: Between CU and DU for the control plane.
      • F1 (U) Interface: Between DU and RU for the user plane.
      • F2 Interface: Between DUs for coordination and synchronization.
      • A1 Interface: For the management and control of RAN resources.
      • E2 Interface: For coordination between CUs in a multi-cell environment.
  5. Standardization Organizations:
    • Various standardization organizations, such as ORAN Alliance and Telecom Infra Project (TIP), play a role in defining specifications for Open RAN.
  6. ORAN Alliance:
    • ORAN Alliance is a leading industry forum driving the development of open and intelligent RAN specifications. It defines technical specifications, APIs, and interfaces to facilitate interoperability among vendors.
  7. TIP OpenRAN Project:
    • Telecom Infra Project (TIP) OpenRAN Project is another initiative working on open and disaggregated RAN solutions. It focuses on developing interoperable and open RAN technologies.
  8. O-RAN Reference Architecture:
    • The O-RAN Alliance provides a reference architecture that guides the development and deployment of Open RAN solutions. This includes specifications for different functional elements and their interactions.