Apr 5, 2022
Small cells – Understanding Network and Security for Far-Edge Computing
So far, we have been discussing macrocells. They are large arrays of antennas that are typically mounted on their own tower and meant to service all of a CSP’s customers for a radius measured in kilometers. The ever-growing demand for new mobile devices has driven a market in small cells. These are small, lower-powered access nodes that are deployed for specific uses.
CSPs add small cells to their existing networks to increase coverage in rural areas, to service more devices in an area of particularly dense usage, or to provide service indoors. Small cells are also found in most private 5G networks. Small cells are broken up into femtocells, picocells, and microcells – each of which has a different range and supports a different number of users.
5G frequency spectra
Unlike 4G/LTE, 5G frequencies are split into three range groupings, each in a different region of the spectrum:
Figure 3.27 – 5G frequency band utilization
Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X)
Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) is a set of specifications that encompass multiple types of wireless communication between a vehicle and its surroundings. This includes other vehicles, infrastructure, networks, and even pedestrians. V2X communication has the potential to revolutionize transportation, making it safer, more efficient, and more sustainable. C-V2X, however, is based on 5G (although it can use 4G/LTE in a more limited fashion).
V2X can be broadly categorized into four subtypes:
Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V): This communication occurs between vehicles on the road, allowing them to exchange information about their position, speed, and direction. This enables advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADASs) to prevent collisions, optimize navigation, and facilitate cooperative driving.
Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I): In this type of communication, vehicles interact with roadside infrastructure such as traffic signals, road signs, and smart city sensors. This allows for real-time traffic management, improved safety measures, and enhanced navigation guidance. China is leading the way in this area. Nearly 90 cities have already partnered with local wireless network operators, deploying tens of thousands of roadside units to demonstrate intelligent highways and urban intelligent networked roads.
Vehicle-to-Pedestrian (V2P): This type of communication occurs between vehicles and pedestrians or cyclists, using devices such as smartphones or wearable technology. V2P communication can help prevent accidents by providing alerts to both pedestrians and vehicle drivers about potential collisions.
Vehicle-to-Network (V2N): This type of communication connects vehicles to various networks, including the internet, cellular networks, and cloud-based services. V2N communication can provide vehicles with updates on traffic, weather conditions, and other relevant information to enhance their performance and safety.
Of note is that, unlike most other 5G technologies, C-V2X does not necessarily require an MNO’s infrastructure to function. It can operate without a SIM, without network assistance, and uses GNSS as its primary time synchronization source. Today, about 50-60% of vehicles in North America are equipped with a cellular modem. The decision-making process within the automotive industry on whether to standardize on DSRC/802.11p or 5G for V2X has been long and drawn out but has finally settled on using cellular as the standard going forward.
According to the 5G Automotive Association (5GAA), auto manufacturers that are currently producing C-V2X capable models include Audi, BMW, Daimler, Ford, Lexus, Nissan, and Tesla.
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