Fronthaul / Midhaul / Backhaul for 5G / LTE C-RAN

For a few years now, mobile operators have started deploying radios and base stations in Centralized/Cloud Radio Access Network (C-RAN) configuration, even for 4G / LTE. In C-RAN configuration, operators deploy one base station for multiple radios. To enable this, radio traffic is carried over a CPRI connection over a fiber for a few kilometers distance to a base station.

With 5G, by splitting the base station into Distributed Unit (DU) and Centralized Unit (CU) boxes, the CRAN concept is expected to take things one step further. In 5G CRAN, radio to DU connections convert into an Ethernet-based format called eCPRI, and is either implemented over point-to-point fiber or over a “fronthaul” network. Similarly, the connection between DU and CU becomes Ethernet, and implemented over an Ethernet-switched network called “midhaul.” The CU connection back to the network core retains its classic name of “backhaul,” as it is in 4G / LTE.

Each part of the network – fronthaul, midhaul and backhaul – can use a wide range of equipment and take different forms, depending on specific operator preferences and available connectivity at a given location. However, network performance requirements, especially for fronthaul, are driving stringent demands on the equipment specifications and architecture, including latency, time stamp accuracy and frequency/phase synchronization.

Microsemi technologies are engineered to meet converged network needs for mobile access, wired anwireless backhaul, and cloud access. Our portfolio for designing mobile network equipment is designed to address your carrier challenges including:

• End-to-End Synchronization: Many networks, particularly mobile networks, require sub-10 nanosecond accurate timing in order to function. Microsemi’s VeriTime™ technology delivers the highest accuracy IEEE 1588 timing for IP Edge networks. Microsemi’s industry-leading timing and synchronization products enable end-to-end coordination and synchronization of timing for heterogeneous networks (HetNets) with IEEE 1588, Synchronous Ethernet and GPS systems.
• Extreme Energy Efficiency: Microsemi products are specifically designed to reduce heat dissipation and minimize power consumption.
• Microsemi FPGAs deliver up to 50% lower total power consumption relative to comparable FPGA from other suppliers;
• Microsemi Ethernet switches consume significantly lower power, thanks to hardware embedded functionality for CE and MEF feature sets;
• Microsemi also offers an innovative portfolio of Power over Ethernet (PoE) solutions that are inherently much more energy-efficient.
• Security: Microsemi’s ICs and FPGAs are uniquely positioned to secure design and deployment of mobile network equipment at multiple levels.
• Compact Form Factor: Low power consumption of Microsemi products with specially designed small form factor packaging enables the most compact form factor mobile network equipment.

Our leading-edge solutions portfolio for building and deploying mobile network infrastructure includes:

• Ethernet PHYs
• Ethernet Software
• Ethernet Switches
• FPGA & SoC
• Low-range density FPGAs & SoCs
• Mid-range density FPGAs
• GPS Timing
• IEEE 1588 PLLs & Software
• OTN Processors
• Precision Crystal & SAW Oscillators

A long-time supplier to the aerospace, communications, defense/security and industrial markets, Microsemi is well-known for its high-reliability, high-performance solutions. Leveraging our technology and expertise, we can help drive innovation in your next-generation network equipment designs that address your carrier customers' needs.

Contact your local Microsemi sales office today to speak to an expert about your 5G / LTE CRAN design and deployment needs.