KT Tests 5G Backhaul in E-Band with NEC

KT completed a 5G wireless backhaul proof of concept (PoC) in conjunction with NEC.

The test, which was conducted at Phoenix Park Ski World in PyeongChang, South Korea, used KT’s commercial mobile network infrastructure. NEC supplied its ultra-compact, iPASOLINK EX microwave communications system operating in E-Band spectrum (70-80GHz).  The microwave radios were used to interconnect KT’s LTE base stations.

NEC’s iPASOLINK EX supports ultra-multilevel modulation (256QAM) technology for high capacity transmission of up to 3.2Gbps. It also supports narrow band transmission (channel width of 250MHz and 500MHz).

KT aims to launch 5G trial services in 2018. This PoC is based on a collaboration agreement in the field of 5G networks signed between KT and NEC in August 2015. The carrier is considering microwave backhaul using E-Band spectrum for 5G services in mountainous areas, where it is difficult to lay optical fibers.

“We are honored to have contributed to KT’s 5G-related trial,” said Hideyuki Muto, Deputy General Manager, Mobile Wireless Solution Division, NEC Corporation. “NEC’s iPASOLINK EX can operate in harsh environments, and is easy to install at various outdoor locations without large scale installation works because it is compact and light weight. This joint PoC took advantage of these features in order to implement a high-capacity mobile backhaul network in snowy, mountainous areas very quickly. Going forward, NEC will strengthen its partnership with KT to contribute to the launch of their 5G trial services in 2018.”

http://www.nec.com