Analog Devices introduces an ASIC-based radio platform for O-RAN-compliant 5G radio units designed to reduce time-to-market and meet the ever-expanding needs of 5G networks.
The O-RAN ecosystem uses open standards to unbundle the traditional network and enable greater flexibility and additional functionality in operator networks.
ADI's radio platform includes all the core functionality needed in an O-RAN-compliant 5G radio unit, including a baseband ASIC, software-defined transceivers, signal processing and power.
This advanced radio platform is designed to enable significant performance and form factor improvements to address the critical power consumption and cost challenges of next-generation networks, while reducing customer design cycles.
O-RAN reduces entry restrictions by providing new opportunities for current and emerging wireless providers.
ADI is engaging directly with participants in theecosystem to optimize its total efficiency, ensuring interoperability and promoting the potential of the industry.
Analog Devices' platform enables radio designers and manufacturers to optimize overall system performance for macro and small cell solutions.
The reference design will allow designers to build O-RAN compliant radios through the use of:
- Next generation ADI transceiver featuring advanced front-end digital signal processing (DFE), digital pre-distortion with support for PA GaN, crest factor reduction, digital channel up and down converters.
- A low-PHY baseband ASIC, offering a 7.2x compliant solution for LTE, 5G and NBIoT, including IEEE1588 Precision Time Protocol and an eCPRI interface.
- Complete solutions for clock and supply chain.
Comments
"O-RAN aims to enliven the traditional market by reconsidering network structure through open standards that will require new and innovative radio solutions," said Joe Barry, Vice President of Wireless Communications at Analog Devices. "ADI's new O-RAN-compliant solution is a fundamental step forward for the entire ecosystem, providing a radio platform with performance optimized for 5G."
"Bringing a low-PHY baseband ASIC to market is a big step forward for Open RAN. A clear path is now outlined for OEMs to build competitive systems for macro and small cells," said Andy Dunkin, Open RAN RF and Digital Platform Development Manager at Vodafone Group, concluding, "It is initiatives like this that help build a robust ecosystem."
"We are excited about ADI's commitment to facilitating entry into the O-RAN ecosystem by providing an excellent level of support aimed at wireless vendors," says Steve Papa, CEO of Parallel Wireless. "Solutions like this encourage the standardization of the 7.2 functional split option for easier interoperability integration."
