
Parallel Wireless adds 2G capabilities to 3G/4G end-to-end SDR
With 2G added to the SDR system from Parallel Wireless, 40 percent of emerging markets who will still use 2G in 2020 (according to GSMA) will benefit, as well as developed markets refarming 2G spectrum for use in NB-IoT.
Peter Jarich, VP and Chief Analyst, Global Data said: “There are still many markets around the world where 2G deployments continue and will need to be supported into the future. 2G R&D, however, is not always a priority for every network vendor. Support for 2G is a logical move for Parallel Wireless, building on their 3G/4G deployments and an architecture designed for flexibility. For operators looking to serve emerging markets while investing in future network expansions, the capabilities will be welcomed.”
This system utilizes two main components from Parallel Wireless:
- HetNet Gateway (HNG) – a 3GPP-compliant 2G/3G/4G network orchestrator that virtualizes essential network functionalities on one platform to enable network simplification and automated maintenance. By unifying and orchestrating any G on a software-upgradable platform, HNG also paves the way for 5G;
- Converged Wireless System (CWS) – the first 2G/3G/4G base station built using commodity silicon combines Baseband Unit (BBU), Remote Radio Head (RRH), edge router, and flexible backhaul in one small form factor. CWS can provide any combination of 2G/3G/4G access simultaneously and delivers the highest RF output to cover the furthest distance for roughly half the price.
With the intelligence of HetNet Gateway and the flexibility of CWS, global operators get the benefits of cost-effective network upgradability via software-defined radio (SDR) functionality. Furthert, by integrating GSM, UMTS, and LTE on the same form factor, operators can provide 2G access and seamlessly migrate to 3G/4G capabilities at their own pace and budget with a software upgrade from HNG, without replacing the equipment onsite.
Since all traffic, licensed or unlicensed, is orchestrated by HetNet Gateway’s virtualized real-time 2G/3G/4G SON, this system allows end-users to switch between cellular and Wi-Fi technologies automatically without impacting their experience.
Through HNG’s Network Function Elimination (NFE) approach, operators can combine 2G, 3G, 4G gateway functionalities on one platform to simplify deployment and maintenance of any G networks. Real-time SON on HetNet Gateway automates ongoing maintenance via self-optimization capabilities.
Easy installation and the ability to run 2G/3G/4G on one system along with flexible in-band relay/meshing backhaul reduces operators’ CAPEX. Lowest power consumption and network automation reduces OPEX, so operators can increase profitability throughout the entire network lifecycle.
Rajesh Mishra, Founder and CTO, Parallel Wireless, said: “As part of our mission to connect the unconnected and improve people’s lives, providing reliable, cost-effective 2G coverage is essential. By adding 2G capabilities to our solution, we can now offer cost savings and network simplification for any G cellular network to make it economically viable for operators to connect the unconnected. With the ability to cost-effectively upgrade from 2G to 4G, this solution also creates a network architecture that is 5G-ready today.”
