3gpp split options
The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) is a collaboration between telecommunications standards development organizations that develops protocols and specifications for mobile telecommunications. The term "split options" typically refers to the division of functions between different network elements in a 5G architecture.
In 5G, the RAN is divided into two main components: the Central Unit (CU) and the Distributed Unit (DU). The split options define how the functionality of these units is distributed. There are two main split options:
- Option 2: Non-Standalone (NSA) Deployment:In Option 2, the DU and CU are connected via a high-capacity interface called the Fronthaul. This split allows for the reuse of existing LTE infrastructure, making it easier to deploy 5G in areas where LTE is already available.
- Radio Unit (RU): The RU is responsible for the radio transmission and reception. It includes the antenna and the analog/digital components necessary for radio frequency processing.
- Distributed Unit (DU): The DU performs the lower layer functions of the radio protocol stack. It handles tasks such as channel coding, modulation/demodulation, and various radio resource management functions.
- Central Unit (CU): The CU is responsible for the upper layer functions of the radio protocol stack. It handles tasks such as packet scheduling, connection establishment, and mobility management.
- Option 7: Standalone (SA) Deployment:In Option 7, the split between the CU and RU is done at a higher layer, simplifying the network architecture. This split is designed for scenarios where a new 5G network is deployed without reliance on existing LTE infrastructure.
- Radio Unit (RU): Similar to Option 2, the RU handles radio transmission and reception.
- Central Unit (CU): In Option 7, the CU takes on both lower and upper layer functions of the radio protocol stack, combining the responsibilities of the DU and CU in Option 2.