25G for 5G: Combating Fronthaul Fiber Scarcity

25G for 5G: Combating Fronthaul Fiber Scarcity

As we prepare to launch our expanded 25G portfolio for 5G applications this week, we’re taking a closer look at what some of these deployments might look like. In this article, we’ll take a look at how simple passive filters can play a huge role in helping network operators get the most out of their future 5G deployments.

The Anatomy of a 5G Network

One of the key differences between 4G and 5G networks is the splitting of the BBU into a central unit (CU) and distributed unit (DU). In this design, the CU enables network operators to take advantage of the operational benefits of “cloudification.” As such, this separates traditional fronthaul into midhaul (between the CU and DU) and fronthaul (between the DU and each active antenna unit, or AAU). It is in this new fronthaul that passive filters can play a key role.

How Passives Can Help

In a 5G deployment, passive mux/demuxes function exactly as they would in any other application. These simple, high-reliability devices can mux together 25G DWDM signals from multiple antennas, allowing network operators to conserve fiber.

Champion ONE will soon be offering 25G DWDM transceivers that can be paired with our passive mux/demuxes in 5G fronthaul applications. To learn more about these solutions, contact us today.

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