Ericsson has introduced three new scalable small cell solutions to help expand the small cell market and meet the growing demand for better connectivity in lieu of new 5G networks and the Internet of Things (IoT) applications. The three small cell solutions, Multi-Operator Dot and Multi-Dot Enclosure for indoor deployments and Strand-Mount Unit for outdoor micro radios will be exhibited at the inaugural GSMA Mobile World Congress Americas in San Francisco from September 12-14.
The Multi-Operator Dot solution delivers a set of Radio Dots that can be shared between multiple operators, with one operator managing the system while others provide radio frequency signals – similar to an active distributed antenna system (DAS). The new architecture allows up to four operators to broadcast over a single Dot solution; combining the multi-operator benefits of an active DAS solution with the performance, agility and cost-effective design of the Radio Dot System.
As its name suggests, the Multi-Dot Enclosure combines multiple Dots in a single enclosure. The enclosure has a minimal impact on building aesthetics, is useful for multi-operator deployments, and presents a cost-savings option in buildings that charge per box deployed.
The Strand-Mount Unit for outdoor micro radios makes it easier to install the radios on the existing grid, hung on aerial coax, fiber, or electricity cables. Aerial-strand deployments are critical for scaling outdoor small cells and can be deployed for both single and multi-operator usage. Ericsson’s new Strand-Mount Unit can support up to four micro radios, enabling multiple operators to utilize the same mount for cost-efficient deployments. The unit delivers superior outdoor coverage with zero foot-print.
The Multi-Operator Dot and the Multi-Dot Enclosure will enable service providers to offer their customers an aesthetically pleasing full multi-operator solution, capable of extending coverage and capacity indoors using LTE/5G tight interworking. The Strand-Mount Unit creates new opportunities for outdoor deployments for customers such as telecom operators, cable operators and tower companies.
5G readiness requirements and IoT strategies are becoming increasingly important factors in network planning. And with more and more non-traditional players entering the wireless marketplace, operators need to think outside the box and find more cost-effective means of deploying the number of small cells required to meet consumer demand.
The small cell solutions will be made available commercially from 2018 onwards.
