Infrastructure Evolution: Preparing for 5G Deployment 

Join us for part 2 of C&D's series on 5G technology.

Executive Summary

The rollout of 5G technology marks a significant transformation in telecommunications infrastructure, delivering unprecedented speeds, ultra-low latency, and massive connectivity. As demand for seamless connectivity grows, the deployment of a robust and scalable 5G infrastructure is critical for Communication Service Providers (CSPs).

This white paper explores the essential components of 5G network infrastructure, including site architectures (macro and small cells), cloud-native principles, and the implications for energy consumption and backup systems. While 5G enhances energy efficiency per transmitted bit, overall energy consumption has increased due to denser infrastructure and rising data demands. C&D Technologies plays a pivotal role in this evolving landscape, providing innovative power solutions that enhance the reliability and efficiency of 5G networks. 

1. Introduction

5G technology is set to revolutionize communication across various sectors, including healthcare, transportation, and entertainment. With the demand for high-speed internet and real-time connectivity surging, robust infrastructure becomes increasingly essential. However, this transformation also brings significant energy challenges. The deployment of 5G necessitates a denser network of small cells and macro sites, which increases overall energy consumption despite improvements in energy efficiency per transmitted bit.

This paper outlines the critical components necessary for 5G deployment, the advantages of adopting cloud-native technologies, the significance of edge computing, and the integration of macro sites and small cells within the Radio Access Network (RAN). Additionally, it addresses the importance of energy management and the role of advanced energy storage solutions in ensuring a sustainable and resilient 5G network. 

2. RAN: Macro Cells and Small Cells

The Radio Access Network (RAN) is a crucial component of the 5G infrastructure, facilitating wireless connectivity between user devices and the core network. It comprises macro cells and small cells to ensure comprehensive coverage and capacity. 

2.1 Macro Cells. Macro cells are large-scale base stations that provide extensive coverage over wide geographic areas. They typically operate in the sub-6 GHz frequency bands (e.g., 600 MHz, 700 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz) and may also utilize millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies (e.g., 24 GHz, 28 GHz) for specific applications. Key Features 

• Massive MIMO: Enhances capacity and spectral efficiency by employing multiple antennas. 

• Coordinated Multipoint (CoMP): Optimizes signal reception in dense urban environments. 

2.2 Small Cells. Small cells are low-power radio access nodes designed to enhance network capacity in densely populated urban areas and indoor environments. They operate within a limited range and primarily use the same sub-6 GHz frequencies as macro cells, along with mmWave bands for high-capacity applications. Key Features 

• Dense Deployment: Clustered in high-traffic areas to alleviate the load on macro cells. 

• Edge Computing Integration: Reduces latency by processing data locally. 

3. RAN Architectures 

Within the RAN framework, two primary architectural models are utilized: Distributed RAN (D-RAN) and Centralized RAN (C-RAN). 

3.1 Distributed RAN (D-RAN). D-RAN represents the traditional architecture where the Baseband Unit (BBU) and the Remote Radio Head (RRH) are co-located at the same site. This configuration allows for localized processing, reducing latency and improving data handling efficiency, especially in rural or suburban areas. 

3.2 Centralized RAN (C-RAN). C-RAN decouples the BBU from the RRH, centralizing BBUs in a data center while keeping RRHs at the cell sites. This approach is advantageous in urban environments, allowing for resource pooling and reducing hardware redundancy. C-RAN enhances network performance through coordinated multipoint (CoMP) transmission and facilitates easier upgrades and maintenance. 

4. Core and Transport Architectures 

The 5G network architecture is underpinned by two additional critical components: the Core Network and the Transport Network. 

4.1 Core Network. The 5G Core Network adopts a cloud-native, service-based architecture (SBA), leveraging Network Function Virtualization (NFV) and Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC). This architecture enables modularity, scalability, and agility, supporting critical functions such as authentication, session management, and traffic aggregation. 

• Network Slicing: A key feature of the 5G core is network slicing, which allows multiple virtual networks to be created on a single physical infrastructure. Each slice can be tailored to meet specific requirements for different applications, ensuring optimal performance and resource utilization. This capability is essential for supporting diverse services, from IoT to high-bandwidth applications like virtual reality. 

4.2 Transport Network. The Transport Network integrates fronthaul, midhaul, and backhaul to connect the RAN and Core. It ensures high-speed, low-latency data transmission and supports technologies like Integrated Access Backhaul (IAB) and Ethernet-based interfaces.

5. Energy Efficiency vs. Total Energy Consumption 

• Kilowatts per Bit: 5G technology is engineered to transmit data more efficiently, meaning that it can deliver more bits of data per kilowatt of energy consumed. This metric is crucial for evaluating the efficiency of communication technologies, highlighting the advancements made in energy utilization. 

• Increased Infrastructure: The deployment of 5G necessitates a denser network of small cells and base stations to support its high-frequency bands, which have shorter ranges. This increased infrastructure leads to higher total energy consumption, even if the energy efficiency per bit is improved. 

• Data Demand: The exponential growth in data traffic driven by IoT devices, streaming services, and other applications further exacerbates energy use. As more devices connect to the network and demand higher data rates, the overall energy consumption rises, overshadowing the efficiency gains achieved through improved kilowatts per bit. 

• Massive MIMO and Edge Computing: Technologies like Massive MIMO are driving up energy consumption due to the increased number of antennas and radio resources required to serve multiple users simultaneously. Additionally, the integration of edge computing contributes to higher energy demands, as processing data closer to the user requires significant computational resources. This means that energy consumption is rising not only from the radio side but also from the compute side, necessitating careful management of energy resources. 

5.1 Implications for Roll-Out and Mission-Critical Services. The increased energy consumption associated with 5G networks has significant implications for their roll-out and the provision of mission-critical services: 

• Infrastructure Investment: Network operators must invest in more robust infrastructure and energy-efficient technologies to manage the higher energy demands. This need for investment may lead to increased operational costs, which could, in turn, affect pricing models for consumers and businesses. 

• Reliability and Resilience: As 5G networks become integral to mission-critical applications—such as telemedicine, autonomous vehicles, and smart city infrastructure—ensuring reliability becomes paramount. Any disruption in service can have severe consequences, necessitating a focus on resilient network design to withstand potential outages and maintain service continuity. 

• Back-Up Systems: The importance of reliable backup systems cannot be overstated. Organizations must implement robust contingency plans, including alternative power sources and failover systems, to ensure uninterrupted service during outages or peak demand periods. This is especially critical for sectors like healthcare, emergency services, and public safety, where downtime can lead to life-threatening situations. 

• Sustainability Goals: As energy consumption rises, network operators must also consider their environmental impact. The push for greener technologies and renewable energy sources will be crucial in mitigating the carbon footprint of 5G networks. Strategies may include integrating solar panels, wind energy, and energy-efficient designs to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. 

• Regulatory Considerations: Policymakers may need to establish guidelines and incentives for energy-efficient practices in the deployment of 5G networks. This could include promoting the use of renewable energy sources and encouraging innovation in energy-saving technologies, ensuring that the expansion of 5G infrastructure aligns with sustainability objectives. 

6. C&D Technologies' Role in Ensuring Resilient Networks

C&D Technologies is committed to addressing the challenges of backup power and network resilience in the 5G landscape through our advanced energy storage solutions. 

• Advanced Energy Storage Solutions: Our state-of-the-art battery systems are designed to provide reliable backup power for critical network infrastructure, ensuring continuous operation during outages. These systems are crucial for maintaining the integrity of 5G networks, particularly for mission-critical applications. 

• Scalability and Flexibility: C&D Technologies' energy storage solutions are scalable, allowing operators to adjust capacity based on demand. This flexibility is essential for adapting to the dynamic requirements of 5G networks. 

• Sustainability Focus: We are dedicated to promoting sustainability in telecommunications. Our energy storage solutions can be integrated with renewable energy sources, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting operators in meeting their sustainability goals. 

7. Conclusion

The transition to 5G technology necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the infrastructure components required for successful deployment. As explored, the RAN, macro sites, C-RAN, transport network, and core network are integral to this evolution, while cloud-native architectures and edge computing provide the agility and efficiency needed to maximize the benefits of 5G.

Furthermore, addressing energy consumption and implementing reliable energy storage solutions are essential for sustainable operations. C&D Technologies is well-positioned to support these advancements, offering innovative solutions that enhance network performance and reliability. 

About the author

Magnus Bjelkefelt is the Regional Sales Manager for Europe at C&D Technologies, bringing with him over 20 years of experience in the telecommunications, power electronics, and energy storage industries.

As a Subject Matter Expert in 5G networks, he has developed a deep understanding of the complexities involved in powering and backing up these advanced communication networks.