On this episode of HetNet Happenings, host Sean Kinney discusses the nuances of LTE-U, self-optimizing networks as related to small cells and deployment and more with Renuka Bhalerao, principal systems architect for software and solutions at Radisys.
“LTE-U … it is all about adding more capacity, making use of the unlicensed spectrum. We all know that spectrum currently … is expensive, it’s scarce. Everybody is excited about taking a look at the unlicensed spectrum. Radisys is not staying behind. One is to take a look at how the LTE-U, or the pre-standard version, is shaping up. North America is readying for it.”
On small cells and LTE-U: “You combine the small cells licensed spectrum with the Wi-Fi-related … unlicensed spectrum that is available, which today is being used by the Wi-Fi industry. So combine that in a small cell environment and add more capacity for our users.”
Bhalerao said Radisys is cognizant of the need to ensure that potential interference between Wi-Fi and small cells sharing unlicensed spectrum is mitigated or otherwise managed.
“As with any new concept, there are challenges. It’s a spectrum that is already being used. Yes, we have to have our play within that boundary, not have a major impact on those existing players, but tap into this whole aspect of unlicensed spectrum and take advantage of it. It is something that the whole ecosystem has to solve as a combined problem. I wouldn’t say it’s not feasible to get past it.”
Bhalerao predicted LTE-U would become a component of heterogeneous network ecosystems. “Everything will come together. I think North America and Korea will find their way to implement LTE-U,” which will lay a foundation for LAA.
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