The Radio Access Network (RAN) in 5G is known as the New Radio (NR) RAN. It constitutes the part of the mobile network responsible for connecting user equipment (UE), such as smartphones and IoT devices, to the core network. The NR RAN is a fundamental component of the 5G architecture, providing the wireless interface for communication between UEs and the 5G network.
The key objectives of the NR RAN in 5G are to deliver high data rates, low latency, and improved reliability, addressing the diverse requirements of different use cases, including enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra-reliable low latency communication (URLLC), and massive machine-type communication (mMTC).
One distinctive feature of the 5G NR RAN is its use of a new air interface, the 5G New Radio. This air interface introduces advanced technologies, such as massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output), beamforming, and dynamic spectrum sharing, to enhance spectral efficiency, coverage, and capacity. Massive MIMO, for instance, involves the use of a large number of antennas to improve data rates and network performance.
The 5G NR RAN is designed to operate in multiple frequency bands, including sub-6 GHz and mmWave frequencies. This flexibility allows for a balance between coverage and capacity, with sub-6 GHz bands providing wide-area coverage, and mmWave bands offering high capacity in densely populated areas.
Furthermore, the 5G NR RAN architecture supports network slicing, allowing the creation of virtual networks tailored to specific use cases and applications. This enables efficient resource allocation and customization of the network to meet the diverse requirements of different services.
The deployment of small cells, such as microcells and femtocells, is another characteristic of the 5G NR RAN. These small cells enhance network capacity and coverage, particularly in high-density urban areas.
In summary, the 5G NR RAN, or New Radio Access Network, is the wireless interface that connects user equipment to the core network in 5G. It incorporates advanced technologies, operates in multiple frequency bands, supports network slicing, and deploys small cells to deliver high-performance, low-latency, and reliable communication services in diverse scenarios.