Mobile data traffic is growing dramatically as networks transition from GSM to UMTS/LTE, making bandwidth a priority for operators. Combining traditional microwave and E-band microwave, Huawei is ready to help operators prepare for the gigabit transmission enabled by LTE. Huawei is also enhancing network architecture & high-capacity backhaul to provide an end-to-end packet-based transport network solution that meets changing operator demands.
Huawei's Microwave Marketing Manager, Leonida Macciotta, introduces the impact of large-scale LTE deployment on microwave backhaul, along with Huawei's roadmap. Macciotta sees no clear solution yet for small cell mobile backhaul, as there are not only technical requirements but also site implementation requirements in terms of device shape and size. What he does foresee is a mix of technologies that consist of near-line-of-sight and non-line-of-sight point-to-multipoint backhaul, including possible millimeter wave. Huawei will try to combine all available spectrum, including licensed LTE TDD spectrum, point-to-multipoint analog backhaul, and point-to-point line-of-sight microwave.
For Huawei’s 2012 microwave roadmap, Macciotta illustrates two examples. One is fully-outdoor microwave, which uses the same frequencies as the industry standard but is optimized by eliminating cabinets in the installation unit, with the base station and microwave apparatus connected by a single wire. The second is E-band, which uses the 71-86GHz spectrum to enable extremely high-capacity backhaul. With spectrum resources limited, operators are expecting E-band microwave to offer native gigabit-level throughput, delivering ultra-broadband networking, with enhanced reliability, operability, and service features.
