Comparing Optical Transport Technologies for X-Hauling 5G Small Cells in the Sub-6GHz

Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) are facing the roll out of 5G NR Small Cells in the next few years. High cell density will require “intensive” support of optical transport.. T There are multiple options for optical transport depending on cell configuration and capacity. Comparing these optical technologies in terms of capacity and cost is important to maximize return on the likely limited deployment budget. We developed a model that can be used by operators in the strategy and decision making planning phase, and present example results on outdoor 5G small cells using the sub 6 GHz spectrum bands. © 2019 Optical Society of America