Designing 5G / LTE Base Stations

Distributed Unit (DU)
In a 5G network, the DU performs the classic modem functionality of a base station. A DU is typically deployed out in the field, although it may or may not be placed at the bottom of a cell tower.

5G demands much higher capacity (number of connections and bandwidth per connection) – as well as enhanced functionality like coordinated multi-point (CoMP) to fulfill the technology’s promises. Therefore, engineers building DUs face many conflicting constraints to provide orders of magnitude higher capacity at a fraction of the power and cost on a per bit basis.

Central Unit (CU)

In a 5G network, the CU enables consolidation of upper layer protocols and management across multiple DUs. Envisioned to be implemented in a datacenter type format, the CU enables cost-effective implementation of very high capacity networks.

• FPGAs: Lowest power mid-range density FPGAs with CPRI support
• Network Synchronization ICs: Network proven merchant solution for IEEE 1588 with phase, frequency and power profiles
• Ethernet: Highly integrated Ethernet switch / PHY for uplink
• Precision Crystal & SAW Oscillators: Highly stable, low cost, OCXO / TCXO

As a long-time supplier to the communications industry, Microsemi has considerable systems and communications networking expertise and is well-known for our high-reliability, high-performance solutions. We understand the design and deployment challenges of cellular infrastructure and offer innovative technologies to meet your most stringent requirements.

Contact your local Microsemi sales office today to find the right technologies and products for your base station design needs.