New software from NSN claims to double the uplink capacity in existing LTE networks, without any additional hardware, by linking centralized RAN links of multiple base stations and turns mitigating interference. The capability is especially relevant in areas with high concentrations of smart phones, such as stadiums, where people tend to upload a lot pictures and videos.
NSN said its Centralized RAN links multiple LTE base stations to work directly with one other to reduce interference between neighboring cells. This can double the average uplink capacity across a cell, while uploads at the cell edge can be up to ten times faster. It also helps extend battery life as smart devices no longer need to transmit at high power to cut through the interference.
NSN also announced two new software features for its Liquid Radio Software Suite to allow operators to steer LTE-capable smart devices onto 4G more quickly, freeing up WCDMA capacity.
The first feature is Measurement-based LTE layering, which ensures LTE capacity is available before devices are steered, even when LTE and WCDMA sites are not co-located. Also launched is Smart LTE handover, which enables smooth handover from WCDMA to LTE with low delay.
“Our Centralized RAN is capable of enabling operators to convert interference into useful traffic and all without additional hardware or even having to modify their existing base station structure,” said Thorsten Robrecht, vice president, Mobile Broadband portfolio management, NSN. “Apart from this, our two new Liquid Radio software features allow operators to ensure top class mobile broadband experience for their LTE subscribers. These features are valuable in any areas with fluctuating network traffic or densely populated by subscribers, as they are adding more capacity whenever needed, even during special events.”
