A new niche technological solution for Open Radio Access Network (ORAN) base stations has been developed that is scheduled to facilitate high-speed and reliable connectivity at a cost that is viable for unconnected and far-flung areas.

The best-in-class ORAN base station solution has been designed and is under development for commercialisation by IIITB COMET Foundation (COMET), Bengaluru for creating spectral and energy efficient wireless communications technology for 5G and 5G-Advanced radio networks.

ORAN base station solutions, a critical component of next-generation telecommunications infrastructure, disaggregates the software and hardware components of the network infrastructure. ORAN based interfaces are like doors that provide access to different components of the network infrastructure making it easier, efficient and more economically viable to provide internet in remote areas.

The breaking down of the Radio Access Network (RAN) functions help in bringing down network cost and complexity. Open RAN removes vendor lock-in and can facilitate smooth interoperation between cellular network equipment provided by different vendors.

COMET, one of the 25 Technology Innovation Hubs (TIH) set up under the National Mission for Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) for enhancing the nation's capabilities in Advanced Communication Systems, is working on ORAN projects, and has emerged as a key player in the domain.

This has helped COMET to be at the forefront of development and implementation ORAN base station solutions in partnership with five leading academic institutes.  The institutes include IIIT Bangalore, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Bhilai, IIT Roorkee and IIIT-Naya Raipur.

The ORAN base station radio unit development led by Dr. Kiran Kuchi, Professor at IIT Hyderabad (IITH), introduced a revolutionary ORAN technology harnessing a multitude of antennas on cell towers. The breakthrough promises to not only enhance cell coverage but also boost capacity by an impressive 3-fold compared to existing 4G networks, thereby optimizing spectrum utilization.

Explaining COMET's role in driving the unique ORAN innovation Prof. Debabrata Das, Director of IIIT Bangalore and Chairman of the Board of IIITB COMET Foundation said, "COMET is proud to steer ORAN innovation and development, transforming cellular networks and also to foster collaboration. Our commitment will fulfil the future need of atmanirbhar telecom solutions in India, creating a global impact."

In order to ensure smooth functioning of the technology, COMET is also dedicated to nurturing skilled professionals in ORAN technology. Through various skill development programs, workshops, and training sessions, the foundation has empowered numerous individuals with the knowledge and skills essential for success in the 5G and beyond era.

Further, with 6G expected to be launched commercially by 2030, India is geared up by being actively involved in exploring emerging standards in 6G specifically in the area of Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS), as this technology is likely to play a key role in the emerging 6G Standard.

These endeavours fostering innovation, collaboration, and skill development in the field of Advanced Communication Systems signify a crucial step towards establishing India as a key player in the global telecom landscape and playing a crucial role in defining global standards of upcoming 6G.

They will help in significantly reinforcing the nation's self-reliance in Advanced Communication Systems and realising Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi ji’s vision of a digital India where access to information knows no barriers.