The right 5G strategy with help from digital twins
As the 5G rollout gathers pace there are a host of challenges that needs addressing. It starts with new spectrum bands which have different propagation models and require expert understanding, tools and practices for managing 2D and 3D environments. Beamforming optimization and selection of optimum beam set per sector demands careful consideration. Network slices, 4G and 5G, will need careful design and optimization for the best return of investment. It is also a fact that 5G non-stand-alone (NSA) architecture performance will rely on a stable 4G network due to its multi-connectivity architecture. Hence, taming the connectivity challenge is crucial. Finally, 5G use case(s) pose latency (e.g. URLLC) and throughput (e.g. eMBB) issues. This transformational shift is not seamless and the sheer complexity of 5G network planning, design and optimization cannot be solved by conventional techniques.
Nokia has adopted a novel approach by creating a digital replica of the network, also known as a digital twin. Digital twin and data monitoring systems and algorithms can visualize ‘what if’ scenarios to design and optimize end-to-end network performance. From the RAN to the Core before the actual physical implementation. This technique is extremely useful for a deep analysis of the network and to find coverage gaps and revenue leakage by using analysis of traffic dynamics. For a European CSP, employing a digital twin, Nokia’s offer provides for 44 percent higher revenue than the traditional method.
Digital twin-based analytics can be used to create digital design and investigate the future scalability of the network with the help of propriety tools which makes it possible to digitally model 5G-specific use cases. It can also analyze the selection of optimum beam sets in a 3D recreated environment. For a customer based in North America, Nokia’s design provided for 30 percent lower TCO than its own design baseline.
Nokia also offers comprehensive optimization services. Right from Radio Network Assessment to 5G services use case optimizations such as latency optimization module for an ultra-low latency environment. Nokia has created a comprehensive analysis process as well, which apart from analyzing several RAN OSS KPI/counters for latency, applies specific methods to measure and troubleshoot the e2e latency specific to the network scenario. For a 5G deployment in New York, our optimization helped in ‘Time on 5G’ by 15 percent. Thanks to Nokia’s robust expertise and tool prowess.
Contact us today to find out how Nokia can help you with digital services in planning design and optimization.
