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Indoor RAN

Shaping the future of in-building communication
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Why are indoor networks considered significant in the evolution of wireless communication?

The significance of indoor networks in wireless communication has surged as 80 percent of mobile traffic has moved indoors. Advanced in-building solutions are needed to overcome penetration challenges for 5G in mid- and high-band spectrums and to ensure uninterrupted indoor connectivity.

Empowering indoor connectivity: A call to action

As we stand at this crossroad, the imperative for dedicated inbuilding 5G coverage is undeniable. The future of mobile communication—not just for 5G but also for upcoming generations—demands a paradigm shift towards networks designed with indoor usage at their core. This shift promises not only to enhance user experiences but also to maximize return on spectrum investments for service providers.

  • How did wireless communications evolve from 1G to 5G?
  • What are the advantages and the flaws of the outdoor-toindoor (O2I)model for 5G?
  • Understanding and measuring propagation loss
  • Ways O2I spectral inefficiency harms your ROI and what to do instead

It's time to embrace the convergence of technologies, ensuring that the benefits of 5G extend into every corner of our indoor spaces. Learn how.

Read the paper
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Enhanced Mobile Broadband, hd voice, 5G, 4G

The journey of wireless communication: Transformations and innovations

As we stand at this crossroad, the imperative for dedicated in-building 5G coverage is undeniable. The future of mobile communication—not just for 5G but also for upcoming generations—demands a paradigm shift towards networks designed with indoor usage at their core. This shift promises not only to enhance user experiences but also to maximize return on spectrum investments for service providers.

There's a growing need to change cellular network evolution and user behaviors to meet the demands of today's applications more effectively.

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Mobile traffic by application category

Indoor, small cells, Radio Dot System, Ericsson Radio System, ERS, Dot, RDS, Indoor fusion, Cafe, Office

The struggle of 5G indoors: A battle against frequency and infrastructure

The outdoor-to-indoor model for 5G faces significant challenges due to propagation characteristics and the nature of building materials. As we move up in frequency, the coverage potential decreases, and signal penetration into buildings becomes more difficult.

Deficiencies of the outdoor-to-indoor model for 5G

Service providers try to satisfy both outdoor and indoor coverage needs through their macro networks. Meanwhile, spectrum needs have evolved toward ever higher frequency bands. The outside-in approach to indoor coverage is reaching its limits.

  • Where will the users for 5G be? Healthcare facilities, factories, warehouses, hotels and office buildings have solid walls and lots of them
  • The higher you go in spectrum bands, the smaller the coverage potential
  • Why you can have the highest data rates, hot spot capacity and complex use cases—and still not penetrate deep indoors

Millimeter wave and mid-band spectrum can provide high data rates, hotspot capacity and complex use cases. Their propagation characteristics, however, prevent deep indoor penetration where they are needed most.

Dedicated in-building solutions are vital for reaping the benefits of 5G in indoor environments.

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The keys to unlocking optimal indoor experience: A hybrid approach

Several technologies and solutions have emerged over the years to provide dedicated indoor coverage. Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) and Wi-Fi have gained traction. Each has its advantages and limitations. Small cells, like the Ericsson Radio Dot, have sought to overcome the complexities and shortcomings inherent to DAS and Wi-Fi.

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