Specification of Classes of Service

Throughput analysis for 3GPP functional splits

Network slicing framework definition

Synchronization requirements analysis as well as synchronization distribution scenarios

Operation, Administration and Maintenance (OAM) requirements

IEEE 1914.1 scope covers architecture and requirements for various functional split options and transport network solutions

IEEE 1914.1 standard would help to design NGFI solutions with the following advantages:

High scalability

Enabling C-RAN/V-RAN deployments

Supporting optimized fronthaul bandwidth scaling proportionally with user traffic

High resource utilization

On air interface by supporting cooperative techniques like CoMP and MIMO

On transport interface allowing statistical multiplexing

High flexibility

Supporting 5G as well as legacy deployments

Enabling SW upgrades of mobile nodes

Low cost

Facilitating open RAN interfaces

Being transport-technology independent

Leveraging mature standard transport solutions like Ethernet, IEEE 1588, SyncE

Unifying management and control solution, common networking protocols, and universal network elements

“As the 5G tests and trials are moving into top gear in the industry, it is really nice to see that the requirements on the fronthaul networks are finally being consolidated. There is no doubt on the importance of the fronthaul for 5G. The development of the fronthaul requirements will point to a clear direction for fronthaul technology selection/development. We are very happy to see that the IEEE 1914 WG is leading on this front and share their progress with the industry partners in a timely manner, which enhances the industry synergy”, said Dr. Chunfeng Cui, Director of Green Communication Research Technology Center from China Mobile Research Institute.

“We consider NGFI working group as a place where experts on fronthaul can jointly define future xhaul networks. It is important to bring together mobile network operators and telecom vendors to evaluate requirements and solutions for fronthaul or xhaul networks. Ethernet is indeed a transport solution that can optimize fronthaul deployments”, said Dr. Aleksandra Checko, Project Manager and Senior Systems Engineer from MTI Radiocomp, currently serving as an editor of IEEE 1914.1 standard.

Currently the draft is under working group review process, which is to be finished by Q3 2018.

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc. (IEEE)