The roll-out of the TIP-based tech in live networks began in Turkey and supports speeds up to 100Gbps
Vodafone is deploying new disaggregated cell site gateway (DCSG) routers to cut the cost of upgrading 4G cell sites to 5G and of bringing new ones online. The routers link mobile sites to the core network.
DCSG routers are based on the same principles as Open Radio Area Network (RAN) equipment. They work using open software and hardware from multiple vendors, and for the first time, interconnect with cell sites running on radio equipment from both new Open RAN and traditional vendors.
The routers’ hardware and software can be sourced independently from multiple vendors and are based on open architecture and standard APIs. They will replace single-supplier routers to give the operator more flexibility in building transport networks.
TIP efforts
The routers can transport traffic over mobile backhaul fibre links and enterprise customers’ dedicated connections, at speeds of up to 100Gbps to support the expected growth in mobile data and internet usage.
Vodafone pioneered the development and testing of DCSG routers in the Telecom Infra Project (TIP) with initial technical trials in Romania and South Africa, in partnership with Vodacom, during 2020 and 2021. The trials proved that the DCSGs can support any mobile technology and interwork with Vodafone’s suppliers.
After further tests in Turkey earlier this year, Vodafone is installing them within the live network, starting deployment in South Marmara that will eventually cover the across the rest of the country.
Mixing it up
Vodafone is using hardware from Edgecore Networks Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Taiwanese company Accton Technology Corporation and a provider for the latest open networking Technology, together with software from the German networking and software company ADVA, for the roll-out in Turkey. The Vodafone DCSG router is easy to install, and subsequent software changes and capacity upgrades can be made automatically, making it more cost effective to extend 5G to more people.
Santiago Tenorio, Director of Vodafone Network Architecture, said, “The dynamic and growing nature of internet traffic continually tests the capacity limits of cell sites everywhere. By opening the door to greater vendor diversity and network automation, we can stay ahead of the curve and bring new mobile sites online more quickly and cheaply.”