Communication system and communication method

Abstract

A communication system and a communication method, relating to the technical field of communications. The communication system comprises a baseband module, a first module, and a first radio frequency module. The baseband module sends a digital baseband signal to the first module, and the first module converts the digital baseband signal into an analog radio frequency signal, and sends the analog radio frequency signal to the first radio frequency module. Compared with schemes in which transmission is performed using CPRIs or eCPRIs on the basis of digital signals, the scheme in which transmission is performed on the basis of the analog signal can support better utilization of a channel capacity for transmission, thereby enhancing the capability of data transmission between the first module and the first radio frequency module. When there is a need for high-capacity data transmission between the baseband module and the first radio frequency module, because the capability of data transmission between the first module and the first radio frequency module is enhanced, it is unnecessary to select an optical module that supports a higher transmission rate, thereby reducing transmission costs.

Description

A communication system and communication method

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510198947.6, filed on February 21, 2025, entitled "A Communication System and Communication Method", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and more specifically, to a communication system and a communication method. Background Technology

[0003] A base station is a device used to assist mobile devices in accessing wireless networks. A base station consists of a baseband unit (BBU) and a radio unit (RU). The BBU and RU communicate via a common public radio interface (CPRI) or an enhanced common public radio interface (eCPRI). The BBU and RU are connected via optical fiber.

[0004] When there is a large data transmission requirement between BBU and RU, transmission based on CPRI or eCPRI requires the use of optical modules that support higher transmission rates, such as upgrading from optical modules that support 25Gbps to those that support 100Gbps, which will result in a large transmission overhead. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a communication system and communication method that can reduce transmission overhead when transmitting large amounts of data.

[0006] In a first aspect, a communication system is provided, comprising: a baseband module, a first module, and a first radio frequency module. The baseband module is used to transmit digital baseband signals to the first module; the first module is used to: receive the digital baseband signals, convert the digital baseband signals into analog radio frequency signals, and transmit the analog radio frequency signals to the first radio frequency module; the first radio frequency module is used to receive the analog radio frequency signals.

[0007] Based on the above architecture, the first module converts the digital baseband signal into an analog radio frequency (RF) signal and transmits the analog RF signal to the first RF module. Compared to CPRI or eCPRI schemes that transmit digital signals, the analog signal-based transmission scheme can better utilize channel capacity, thereby enhancing the data transmission capability between the first module and the first RF module. When there is a need for high-capacity data transmission between the baseband module and the first RF module, the enhanced data transmission capability between them eliminates the need to select an optical module supporting higher transmission rates, thus reducing transmission costs.

[0008] In some implementations of the first aspect, the first module is the second radio frequency module. This allows the aforementioned architecture to be applied to macro base stations to enhance their transmission capabilities. Furthermore, it enables macro / pole / micro convergence, reducing reliance on HUB modules and achieving lower deployment costs.

[0009] In some implementations of the first aspect, the first module is a hub module. This allows for the utilization of hub modules already used in microsites, thereby reducing costs.

[0010] In some implementations of the first aspect, the first radio frequency module includes at least one radio frequency unit. This allows the at least one radio frequency unit to be distributed across one or more areas with data transmission needs, thereby improving signal coverage. Furthermore, when the first radio frequency module includes at least one radio frequency unit, this enables the application of the aforementioned communication system in scenarios such as blind spot coverage and hotspot addition.

[0011] In some implementations of the first aspect, the communication system further includes a core network device that communicates with the first radio frequency module. This enables the first radio frequency module to transmit data with the core network device.

[0012] In some implementations of the first aspect, the first module is further configured to map a first carrier to a first radio frequency (RF) channel, wherein the first carrier carries a digital baseband signal and the first RF channel carries an analog RF signal. The first carrier comprises M carriers, and the first RF channel comprises N RF channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1. Thus, the first RF module may not include devices for implementing the function of mapping carriers to RF channels, thereby reducing the cost of the first RF module.

[0013] In some implementations of the first aspect, the first module includes a first communication interface, a first processing unit, and a second communication interface. The first communication interface is used to receive digital baseband signals, the first processing unit is used to convert the digital baseband signals into analog radio frequency signals, and the second communication interface is used to send analog radio frequency signals to the first radio frequency module. Thus, the first module can send analog radio frequency signals to the first radio frequency module.

[0014] Secondly, a communication system is provided, comprising: a baseband module, a first radio frequency (RF) module, and a second RF module. The baseband module is used to transmit digital baseband signals to the first RF module via a first carrier wave. The first RF module is used to: receive the digital baseband signals via the first carrier wave, convert the digital baseband signals into digital RF signals, map the first carrier wave to a first RF channel, and transmit the digital RF signals to the second RF module via the first RF channel. The first carrier wave includes M carrier waves, and the first RF channel includes N RF channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1. The second RF module is used to receive the digital RF signals.

[0015] Based on the above architecture, the first RF module maps the carrier used to carry the digital baseband signal to the corresponding RF channel, and then sends the digital-analog signal to the second RF module through the RF channel. Thus, the second RF module can be free of components for implementing the carrier-to-RF channel mapping function, thereby reducing the cost of the second RF module.

[0016] In some implementations of the second aspect, the first radio frequency module includes a first communication interface, a first processing unit, and a second communication interface. The first communication interface is used to receive a digital baseband signal via a first carrier wave. The first processing unit is used to convert the digital baseband signal into a digital radio frequency signal and to map the first carrier wave to a first radio frequency channel. The second communication interface is used to transmit the digital radio frequency signal to the second radio frequency module via the first radio frequency channel. Thus, the first radio frequency module can transmit the digital radio frequency signal to the second radio frequency module via the first radio frequency channel.

[0017] In some implementations of the second aspect, the communication system further includes core network equipment, which communicates with the second radio frequency module. This allows the second radio frequency module to transmit data with the core network equipment.

[0018] Thirdly, a communication system is provided, comprising: a baseband module, a first radio frequency (RF) module, and a second RF module. The baseband module is used to transmit analog baseband signals to the first RF module; the first RF module is used to: receive analog baseband signals, convert analog baseband signals into analog RF signals, and transmit analog RF signals to the second RF module; the second RF module is used to receive analog RF signals.

[0019] Based on the above architecture, compared to CPRI or eCPRI schemes that rely on digital signals for transmission, the analog signal-based transmission scheme can better utilize channel capacity, thereby enhancing the data transmission capability between the baseband module and the first RF module. When there is a need for high-capacity data transmission between the baseband module and the second RF module, the enhanced data transmission capability between the baseband module and the first RF module eliminates the need to select an optical module supporting higher transmission rates, thus reducing transmission costs.

[0020] In some implementations of the third aspect, the baseband module includes a second processing unit and a third communication interface. The second processing unit is used to convert digital baseband signals into analog baseband signals; the third communication interface is used to send analog baseband signals to the first radio frequency module. Thus, the baseband module can convert digital baseband signals into analog baseband signals and send them to the first radio frequency module, thereby enhancing the data transmission capability between the baseband module and the first radio frequency module.

[0021] In some implementations of the third aspect, the first radio frequency module is further used to map the first carrier to the first radio frequency channel. The first carrier is used to carry an analog baseband signal, and the first radio frequency channel is used to carry an analog radio frequency signal. The first carrier includes M carriers, and the first radio frequency channel includes N radio frequency channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1. Thus, the second radio frequency module may not include devices for implementing the function of mapping the carrier to the radio frequency channel, thereby reducing the cost of the second radio frequency module.

[0022] In some implementations of the third aspect, the first radio frequency module includes a first communication interface, a first processing unit, and a second communication interface. The first communication interface is used to receive analog baseband signals, the first processing unit is used to convert the analog baseband signals into analog radio frequency signals, and the second communication interface is used to send analog radio frequency signals to the second radio frequency module. This structure enhances the data transmission capability between the first and second radio frequency modules.

[0023] In some implementations of the third aspect, the first processing unit is further configured to map a first carrier to a first radio frequency (RF) channel. The first carrier carries an analog baseband signal, and the first RF channel carries an analog radio frequency (RF) signal. The first carrier comprises M carriers, and the first RF channel comprises N RF channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1. Thus, the second RF module may not include devices for implementing the carrier-to-RF channel mapping function, thereby reducing the cost of the second RF module.

[0024] In some implementations of the third aspect, the communication system also includes core network equipment, which communicates with the second radio frequency module. This allows the second radio frequency module to transmit data with the core network equipment.

[0025] In combination with either the second or third aspect, the second radio frequency module includes at least one radio frequency unit. This allows the at least one radio frequency unit to be distributed across one or more areas where data transmission is required, thereby improving signal coverage.

[0026] In conjunction with any one of the first to third aspects, the duplex mode supported by the second radio frequency channel in the first radio frequency module is the same as the duplex mode supported by the third radio frequency channel in the second radio frequency module, or the duplex mode supported by the second radio frequency channel in the first radio frequency module is different from the duplex mode supported by the third radio frequency channel in the second radio frequency module. This allows for flexible configuration of the duplex modes supported by the first and second radio frequency modules.

[0027] In conjunction with any one of the first to third aspects, the first radio frequency module includes a first number of radio frequency channels, and the second radio frequency module includes a second number of radio frequency channels, wherein the first number is different from the second number, or the first number is the same as the second number. This allows for flexible configuration of the number of radio frequency channels included in the first radio frequency module and the number of radio frequency channels included in the second radio frequency module.

[0028] In combination with any one of the first to third aspects, the first RF module supports a first bandwidth, the second RF module supports a second bandwidth, the first bandwidth is different from the second bandwidth, or the first bandwidth is the same as the second bandwidth. This allows for flexible configuration of the bandwidth supported by the first RF module and the bandwidth supported by the second RF module.

[0029] Fourthly, a communication method is provided, comprising: a baseband module sending a digital baseband signal to a first module; the first module receiving the digital baseband signal and converting the digital baseband signal into an analog radio frequency signal, and sending the analog radio frequency signal to a first radio frequency module.

[0030] It should be noted that the description of the beneficial effects in the fourth aspect can be found in the description of the beneficial effects in the first aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0031] In some implementations of the fourth aspect, the method further includes: a first radio frequency module receiving the analog radio frequency signal.

[0032] In some implementations of the fourth aspect, the method further includes: a first module mapping a first carrier to a first radio frequency channel, the first carrier being used to carry digital baseband signals, the first radio frequency channel being used to carry analog radio frequency signals, the first carrier including M carriers, the first radio frequency channel including N radio frequency channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1.

[0033] It should be noted that the descriptions of the first module and the first radio frequency module in the fourth aspect can be found in the relevant descriptions in the first aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0034] Fifthly, a communication method is provided, comprising: a baseband module transmitting a digital baseband signal to a first radio frequency module via a first carrier; the first radio frequency module receiving the digital baseband signal via the first carrier, converting the digital baseband signal into a digital radio frequency signal, mapping the first carrier to a first radio frequency channel, and transmitting the digital radio frequency signal to a second radio frequency module via the first radio frequency channel, wherein the first carrier includes M carriers, the first radio frequency channel includes N radio frequency channels, and M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1.

[0035] It should be noted that the description of the beneficial effects in the fifth aspect can be found in the description of the beneficial effects in the second aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0036] In some implementations of the fifth aspect, the method further includes: a second radio frequency module receiving a digital radio frequency signal.

[0037] It should be noted that the descriptions of the first and second radio frequency modules in the fifth aspect can be found in the relevant descriptions in the second aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0038] In a sixth aspect, a communication method is provided, comprising: a baseband module sending an analog baseband signal to a first radio frequency module; the first radio frequency module receiving the analog baseband signal, converting the analog baseband signal into an analog radio frequency signal, and sending the analog radio frequency signal to a second radio frequency module.

[0039] It should be noted that the description of the beneficial effects in the sixth aspect can be found in the description of the beneficial effects in the third aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0040] In some implementations of the sixth aspect, the method further includes: a second radio frequency module receiving an analog radio frequency signal.

[0041] It should be noted that the descriptions of the baseband module, the first radio frequency module, and the second radio frequency module in the sixth aspect can be found in the relevant descriptions in the third aspect, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0042] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a base station architecture.

[0043] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0044] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first module provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0045] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the mapping relationship between a carrier and a mapping channel provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0046] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first radio frequency module provided in the embodiment of this application.

[0047] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the interaction flow of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0048] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of another communication system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0049] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the interaction flow of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0050] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of another communication system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0051] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the baseband module provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0052] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the interaction flow of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0053] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following points will be explained first.

[0054] 1. Unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more. "At least one" means "one or more".

[0055] 2. Unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions in different embodiments of this application are consistent and can be referenced in each other. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationships.

[0056] III. The various numerical designations used in this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. The order of the serial numbers used in this application does not imply the sequence of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic. For example, the terms "first (1)", "second (2)", and other various terminology (if present) in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. Such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments described herein can be implemented in a sequence other than that illustrated or described herein.

[0057] Furthermore, any embodiment or design described in this application as "exemplary" or "for example" should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a concrete manner for ease of understanding.

[0058] IV. The terms “comprising” and “having” and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, for example, a process, system, product or device that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units that are expressly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not expressly listed or that are inherent to such process, product or device.

[0059] The communication system of the present application embodiment is described below.

[0060] The communication system disclosed in this application can be applied to various communication scenarios, including but not limited to: Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) systems, LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD) systems, Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) systems, Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) systems, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) systems, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) systems, and 5G (5G) systems. th Generation (5G) communication systems or future communication networks, etc. All of the above communication systems include base stations; see Figure 1 for a description of base stations.

[0061] As shown in Figure 1, the base station includes a BBU, a hub module, and multiple RUs. The BBU connects to the multiple RUs (RU1, RU2, and RU3 are used as examples below) through the hub module. For example, the BBU connects to the hub module, the hub module connects to RU1 via fiber optic cable 1, to RU2 via fiber optic cable 2, and to RU3 via fiber optic cable 3.

[0062] In Figure 1, the BBU and HUB modules transmit data based on CPRI or eCPRI, and the HUB module and RU also transmit data based on CPRI or eCPRI. However, CPRI or eCPRI-based transmission methods result in significant transmission overhead when performing large-capacity data transmission. Therefore, this application provides a communication system and method to reduce transmission overhead when performing large-capacity data transmission. A description of this communication system can be found in Figure 2. The communication system shown in Figure 2 can also be understood as a communication device, which includes the modules in the communication system shown in Figure 2. Therefore, the communication system shown in this application embodiment can be interpreted broadly, without limiting the deployment form or device form of the communication system.

[0063] As shown in Figure 2, the communication system includes a baseband module, a first module, and a first radio frequency (RF) module. The baseband module is connected to the first RF module via the first module; that is, the baseband module is connected to the first module, and the first module is connected to the first RF module. The baseband module is used to transmit digital baseband signals to the first module. The first module is used to receive digital baseband signals, convert the digital baseband signals into analog RF signals, and transmit analog RF signals to the first RF module. The first RF module is used to receive analog RF signals.

[0064] Optionally, the first radio frequency module can also process analog radio frequency signals and radiate the signals obtained from processing the analog radio frequency signals.

[0065] In Figure 2, the baseband module is used to perform baseband signal processing functions, such as generating or outputting digital baseband signals. In one example, the baseband module includes a BBU. The first radio frequency (RF) module is used to perform radio frequency (RF) signal processing functions, such as outputting or processing analog RF signals. In one example, the first RF module includes an RU. The first module is used to perform signal relay functions, such as processing digital baseband signals. For example, the first module processes the digital baseband signals as follows: digital-to-analog conversion, carrier modulation, up-conversion and frequency synthesis, filtering and amplification, etc. (see existing solutions for details), and sends the analog RF signal obtained by processing the aforementioned digital baseband signal to the first RF module.

[0066] Based on the architecture shown in Figure 2, the first module converts the digital baseband signal into an analog radio frequency (RF) signal and transmits the analog RF signal to the first RF module. Compared to CPRI or eCPRI schemes that transmit based on digital signals, the analog signal-based transmission scheme can better utilize channel capacity, thereby enhancing the data transmission capability between the first module and the first RF module. When there is a need for large-capacity data transmission between the baseband module and the first RF module, the enhanced data transmission capability between them eliminates the need to select an optical module supporting higher transmission rates, thus reducing transmission costs.

[0067] In one possible implementation, the first module is further configured to map a first carrier to a first radio frequency (RF) channel. The first carrier carries a digital baseband signal, and the first RF channel carries an analog RF signal. The first carrier comprises M carriers, and the first RF channel comprises N RF channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1. M is greater than N, or M is less than N, or M = N.

[0068] After the baseband module sends a digital baseband signal to the first module via the first carrier, the first module maps the first carrier to the first radio frequency channel through the following steps, such as modulation and frequency shifting (see existing solutions for details), and sends the analog radio frequency signal corresponding to the digital baseband signal to the first radio frequency module through the first radio frequency channel.

[0069] In this embodiment, the mapping relationship between the first carrier and the first mapping channel includes: one carrier mapped to one radio frequency channel; one carrier mapped to multiple radio frequency channels; and multiple carriers mapped to one radio frequency channel. A description of the mapping relationship between the carrier and the radio frequency channel can be found in Figure 3.

[0070] As shown in Figure 3(a), the first carrier includes carrier 0 and carrier 1 (M=2), and the first radio frequency channel includes radio frequency channel 0 and radio frequency channel 1 (N=2). Carrier 0 is mapped to radio frequency channel 0, and carrier 1 is mapped to radio frequency channel 1, meaning the mapping relationship between carriers and radio frequency channels satisfies a "one-to-one" relationship. As shown in Figure 3(b), the first carrier includes carrier 0 (M=1), and the first radio frequency channel includes radio frequency channel 0 and radio frequency channel 1 (N=2). Carrier 0 is mapped to both radio frequency channel 0 and radio frequency channel 1, meaning the mapping relationship between carriers and radio frequency channels satisfies a "one-to-many" relationship. As shown in Figure 3(c), the first carrier includes carrier 0 and carrier 1 (M=2), and the first radio frequency channel includes radio frequency channel 0 (N=1). Both carrier 0 and carrier 1 are mapped to radio frequency channel 0, meaning the mapping relationship between carriers and radio frequency channels satisfies a "many-to-one" relationship. For a description of how carriers are mapped to radio frequency channels, please refer to existing schemes; further details are omitted here.

[0071] Based on the above structure, the first radio frequency module may not include devices for implementing the function of mapping the carrier to the radio frequency channel, thereby reducing the cost of the first radio frequency module.

[0072] One possible implementation involves the first module mapping some or all of the digital baseband signals carried on multiple carriers to corresponding radio frequency (RF) channels when the digital baseband signal is carried on multiple carriers. For example, digital baseband signal 1 is carried on a first carrier, and digital baseband signal 2 is carried on a second carrier. The first module receives digital baseband signal 1 via the first carrier and digital baseband signal 2 via the second carrier. The first module maps the first carrier to the corresponding RF channel but does not perform any mapping on the second carrier. The first module transmits the analog RF signal corresponding to digital baseband signal 1 through the RF channel corresponding to the first carrier, and transmits the analog RF signal corresponding to digital baseband signal 2 through the second carrier. This improves the flexibility of the first module when sending signals to the first RF module.

[0073] One possible implementation is that the first radio frequency module includes at least one RU. When the first radio frequency module includes multiple RUs, the transmission between these multiple RUs can be based on analog signal transmission, or on CPRI or e-CPRI transmission, without limitation. When the first radio frequency module includes at least one RU, this allows the at least one RU to be deployed distributed in one or more areas with data transmission requirements, thereby improving signal coverage.

[0074] The structure of the first radio frequency module in Figure 2 is described below with reference to Figure 4. The description takes the first radio frequency module, which includes RU0, RU1, and RU2, as an example. As shown in Figure 4(a), RU0 is connected to the first module, RU1 is connected to RU0, and RU2 is connected to RU1; that is, the connection relationship between RU0, RU1, and RU2 is a chain topology. As shown in Figure 4(b), RU0, RU1, and RU2 are all connected to the first module; that is, the connection relationship between RU0, RU1, and RU2 is a star topology. Furthermore, in Figure 4(b), RU0 can also connect to multiple RUs, such as RU0 connecting to RU01, RU01 connecting to RU02, etc. Similarly, in Figure 4(b), RU1 can also connect to multiple RUs, such as RU1 connecting to RU11, RU11 connecting to RU12, etc.

[0075] Furthermore, the transmission methods between the first module and the first radio frequency module include, but are not limited to, fiber optic, microwave / air interface, etc. This allows for transmission between the first module and the first radio frequency module in multiple ways. Additionally, this supports flexible deployment and adaptability to a wider range of scenarios.

[0076] In this embodiment of the application, the first module can be different devices or modules.

[0077] One possible implementation is that the first module is the second radio frequency (RF) module. When the first module is the second RF module, it can be understood as the parent RF module, and the first RF module as the child RF module. This allows the above architecture to be applied to macro base stations, enhancing their transmission capabilities. Furthermore, it enables macro / pole / micro convergence, reducing reliance on HUB modules and achieving lower deployment costs. Additionally, it allows the communication system to be applied to scenarios such as wireless backhaul.

[0078] One possible implementation involves using a hub module as the first module. This hub module supports analog signal transmission. This would allow the use of existing hub modules in the microcell, thereby reducing costs.

[0079] When the first module is the second RF module, the configuration of the first RF module and the second RF module in terms of duplex mode, number of RF channels and supported bandwidth can be flexible.

[0080] One possible implementation is that the duplex mode supported by the second RF channel in the first RF module is the same as the duplex mode supported by the third RF channel in the second RF module, or the duplex mode supported by the second RF channel in the first RF module is different from the duplex mode supported by the third RF channel in the second RF module. This allows for flexible configuration of the duplex modes supported by the first and second RF modules respectively.

[0081] For example, the duplex mode supported by the second RF channel is different from the duplex mode supported by the third RF channel. For instance, the second RF channel supports time division duplexing (TDD) mode, while the third RF channel supports frequency division duplexing (FDD) mode; or, the second RF channel supports both TDD and FDD modes, while the third RF channel supports either TDD or FDD mode.

[0082] For example, the duplex mode supported by the second radio frequency channel is the same as that supported by the third radio frequency channel. For instance, the second radio frequency channel supports TDD mode and the third radio frequency channel also supports TDD mode, or the second radio frequency channel supports both TDD and FDD modes and the third radio frequency channel supports both TDD and FDD modes.

[0083] When both the first RF module and the second RF module include multiple RF channels, the embodiments of this application do not limit whether the multiple RF channels support the same duplex mode.

[0084] One possible implementation is that the first RF module includes a first number of RF channels, and the second RF module includes a second number of RF channels, where the first number is different from the second number, or the first number is the same as the second number. This allows for flexible configuration of the number of RF channels included in each of the first and second RF modules.

[0085] One possible implementation is that the first RF module supports a first bandwidth, and the second RF module supports a second bandwidth. The first bandwidth is different from the second bandwidth, or the first bandwidth is the same as the second bandwidth. In this way, the bandwidth supported by the first RF module and the second RF module can be flexibly configured.

[0086] In one possible implementation, the communication system also includes core network equipment that communicates with the first radio frequency module. This would enable the first radio frequency module to transmit data with the core network equipment.

[0087] The structure of the first module in Figure 2 will be described below with reference to Figure 5.

[0088] As shown in Figure 5, the first module includes a first communication interface, a first processing unit, and a second communication interface. The first communication interface receives digital baseband signals sent by the baseband module and sends these signals to the first processing unit. The first processing unit processes the digital baseband signals to obtain and sends analog radio frequency (RF) signals to the second communication interface. The second communication interface sends analog RF signals to the first RF module. Thus, the first module can send analog RF signals to the first RF module. The processing procedure for the digital baseband signals by the first processing unit can be found in the description of the processing procedure for the digital baseband signals in the first module, and will not be repeated here.

[0089] Based on the structure shown in Figure 5, when the first module has the function of mapping the first carrier to the first radio frequency channel, the first module can implement the above function through the first processing unit. For example, the baseband module sends a digital baseband signal to the first module through the first carrier, the first communication interface receives the digital baseband signal through the first carrier and forwards the digital baseband signal to the first processing unit, the first processing unit maps the first carrier to the first radio frequency channel (the specific process can be found in the previous description), and carries the analog radio frequency signal to the first radio frequency channel. Further, the first processing unit transmits the analog radio frequency signal carried in the first radio frequency channel to the second communication interface, and the second communication interface sends the analog radio frequency signal to the first radio frequency module through the first radio frequency channel.

[0090] The descriptions in Figures 2 to 5 above use the signal transmission path from the baseband module to the first radio frequency module as an example. However, the scenario is not limited to the signal transmission path being from the first radio frequency module to the baseband module. For example, the first radio frequency module sends an analog radio frequency signal to the first module, the first module converts the received analog signal into a digital baseband signal, and sends the digital baseband signal to the baseband module, which then processes the digital baseband signal.

[0091] The following description, with reference to Figure 6, describes a communication method applicable to the communication systems shown in Figures 2 to 5. As shown in Figure 6, the method includes:

[0092] S601, the baseband module sends digital baseband signals to the first module.

[0093] S602, the first module receives digital baseband signals and converts digital baseband signals into analog radio frequency signals.

[0094] Optionally, in S603, the first module sends an analog radio frequency signal to the first radio frequency module. Correspondingly, the first radio frequency module receives the analog radio frequency signal.

[0095] Using the above method, the first module converts the digital baseband signal into an analog radio frequency (RF) signal and transmits the analog RF signal to the first RF module. Compared to CPRI or eCPRI schemes that transmit based on digital signals, the analog signal-based transmission scheme can better utilize channel capacity, thereby enhancing the data transmission capability between the first module and the first RF module. When there is a need for large-capacity data transmission between the baseband module and the first RF module, because the data transmission capability between the first module and the first RF module is enhanced, it is not necessary to select an optical module that supports a higher transmission rate, thus reducing transmission costs.

[0096] Figures 2 to 5 illustrate the use of the first module supporting analog signal transmission as an example. The following description, in conjunction with Figure 7, illustrates another communication system provided by an embodiment of this application. The communication system shown in Figure 7 can be applied to macro base station scenarios.

[0097] As shown in Figure 7, the communication system includes a baseband module, a first radio frequency (RF) module, and a second RF module. The baseband module is connected to the second RF module via the first RF module; that is, the baseband module is connected to the first RF module, and the first RF module is connected to the second RF module. The baseband module transmits a digital baseband signal to the first RF module via a first carrier wave. The first RF module converts the received digital baseband signal into a digital RF signal, maps the first carrier wave to a first RF channel, and transmits the digital RF signal to the second RF module via the first RF channel. The second RF module receives the digital RF signal transmitted by the first RF module. The first carrier wave comprises M carrier waves, and the first RF channel comprises N RF channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1.

[0098] Optionally, the second radio frequency module can also process digital radio frequency signals and radiate the signals obtained from processing the digital radio frequency signals.

[0099] Based on the architecture shown in Figure 7, the first RF module maps the carrier used to carry the digital baseband signal to the corresponding RF channel, and then transmits the digital RF signal to the second RF module through this RF channel. Thus, the second RF module can be free of components used to implement the carrier mapping to the RF channel, thereby reducing the cost of the second RF module.

[0100] For a description of the mapping of the first carrier to the first radio frequency channel shown in Figure 7, please refer to Figure 3.

[0101] One possible implementation is that the second radio frequency module includes at least one radio frequency unit. When the second radio frequency module includes at least one radio frequency unit, these at least one radio frequency unit can form a chain topology or a star topology. For details, please refer to Figure 4 for the description of the connection method between the at least one radio frequency unit included in the first radio frequency module, which will not be repeated here. Furthermore, the embodiments of this application do not limit the transmission method between the at least one radio frequency unit.

[0102] One possible implementation is that the first radio frequency (RF) module includes a first communication interface, a first processing unit, and a second communication interface. The first communication interface receives a digital baseband signal via a first carrier wave and sends the digital baseband signal to the first processing unit. The first processing unit converts the digital baseband signal into a digital RF signal, maps the first carrier wave to a first RF channel, and sends the digital RF signal carried on the first RF channel to the second communication interface. The second communication interface sends the digital RF signal to the second RF module via the first RF channel. The transmission method between the first and second RF modules can include, but is not limited to, optical fiber, microwave / air interface, etc. Thus, the first and second RF modules can transmit data in various ways.

[0103] One possible implementation is that the communication system also includes core network equipment that communicates with the second radio frequency module. This would allow the first radio frequency module to transmit data with the core network equipment.

[0104] The above description uses the signal transmission path from the baseband module to the second radio frequency module as an example, but it is not limited to the scenario where the signal transmission path is from the second radio frequency module to the baseband module. For example, the second radio frequency module sends a digital radio frequency signal to the first radio frequency module via a carrier wave. The first radio frequency module converts the received digital radio frequency signal into a digital baseband signal and sends the digital baseband signal to the baseband module, which then processes the digital baseband signal.

[0105] In Figure 7, the first radio frequency module and the second radio frequency module can be flexibly configured in terms of the number of radio frequency channels, bandwidth and duplex mode. For details, please refer to the relevant description in Figure 2, which will not be repeated here. That is, the relevant descriptions of the first module and the first radio frequency module in Figures 2 to 5 can also be applied to the communication system shown in Figure 7.

[0106] The following description, with reference to Figure 8, describes a communication method applicable to the communication system shown in Figure 7. As shown in Figure 8, the method includes:

[0107] S801, the baseband module sends a digital baseband signal to the first radio frequency module via the first carrier.

[0108] S802, the first radio frequency module receives a digital baseband signal via a first carrier, converts the digital baseband signal into a digital radio frequency signal, and maps the first carrier to a first radio frequency channel.

[0109] Optionally, S803 and the first radio frequency module send digital radio frequency signals to the second radio frequency module through the first radio frequency channel. Correspondingly, the second radio frequency module receives the digital radio frequency signals.

[0110] Using the above method, the first RF module maps the carrier used to carry the digital baseband signal to the corresponding RF channel, and then transmits the digital RF signal to the second RF module through the RF channel. Thus, the second RF module can be free of components for implementing the carrier-to-RF channel mapping function, thereby reducing the cost of the second RF module.

[0111] Figure 7 illustrates an example of a first radio frequency module supporting the mapping of a first carrier to a first radio frequency channel. The following description, in conjunction with Figure 9, describes another communication system provided by an embodiment of this application. The communication system shown in Figure 9 can be applied to macro base station scenarios.

[0112] As shown in Figure 9, the communication system includes a baseband module, a first radio frequency (RF) module, and a second RF module. The baseband module transmits analog baseband signals to the first RF module; the first RF module receives the analog baseband signals, converts them into analog RF signals, and transmits them to the second RF module. The second RF module receives the analog RF signals.

[0113] Optionally, the second radio frequency module can also process analog radio frequency signals and radiate the signal obtained from processing the analog radio frequency signals.

[0114] Based on the architecture shown in Figure 9, compared to CPRI or eCPRI schemes that rely on digital signal transmission, the analog signal transmission scheme can better utilize channel capacity, thereby enhancing the data transmission capability between the baseband module and the first RF module. When there is a high-capacity data transmission requirement between the baseband module and the second RF module, the enhanced data transmission capability between the baseband module and the first RF module eliminates the need to select an optical module supporting a higher transmission rate, thus reducing transmission costs.

[0115] In one possible implementation, the first RF module is further used to map a first carrier to a first RF channel. The first carrier carries an analog baseband signal, and the first RF channel carries an analog RF signal. The first carrier includes M carriers, and the first RF channel includes N RF channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1. Thus, the second RF module may not include the device for implementing the carrier-to-RF-channel mapping function, thereby reducing the cost of the second RF module.

[0116] One possible implementation is that the first radio frequency (RF) module includes a first communication interface, a first processing unit, and a second communication interface. The first communication interface receives analog baseband signals and sends them to the first processing unit. The first processing unit converts the analog baseband signals into analog RF signals and sends them to the second communication interface. The second communication interface sends analog RF signals to the second RF module. The transmission method between the first and second RF modules can include, but is not limited to, optical fiber, microwave / air interface, etc. Thus, the first and second RF modules can transmit signals in various ways.

[0117] Alternatively, the first processing unit can also perform the mapping of the first carrier to the first radio frequency channel. See the relevant description in Figure 7 for details.

[0118] One possible implementation is that the second radio frequency module includes at least one radio frequency unit. When the second radio frequency module includes at least one radio frequency unit, these at least one radio frequency unit can form a chain topology or a star topology. For details, please refer to Figure 4 for the description of the connection method between the at least one radio frequency unit included in the first radio frequency module, which will not be repeated here. Furthermore, the embodiments of this application do not limit the transmission method between the at least one radio frequency unit.

[0119] The structure of the baseband module in Figure 9 is described below with reference to Figure 10.

[0120] As shown in Figure 10, the baseband module includes a second processing unit and a third communication interface. The second processing unit processes the digital baseband signal to obtain an analog baseband signal and sends the analog baseband signal to the third communication interface. The third communication interface sends the analog baseband signal to the first radio frequency module. In this way, the baseband module can convert the digital baseband signal into an analog baseband signal and send it to the first radio frequency module, thereby improving the data transmission capability between the baseband module and the first radio frequency module.

[0121] One possible implementation is that the communication system also includes core network equipment that communicates with the second radio frequency module. This would enable the second radio frequency module to transmit data with the core network equipment.

[0122] The above description uses the signal transmission path from the baseband module to the second RF module as an example, but it is not limited to the scenario where the signal transmission path is from the second RF module to the baseband module. For example, the second RF module sends an analog RF signal to the first RF module, the first RF module converts the received analog signal into an analog baseband signal, and sends the analog baseband signal to the baseband module, which then processes the analog baseband signal.

[0123] In Figure 9, the first radio frequency module and the second radio frequency module can be flexibly configured in terms of the number of radio frequency channels, bandwidth, and duplex mode. For a detailed description, please refer to the relevant description in Figure 2, which will not be repeated here. That is, the relevant descriptions of the first module and the first radio frequency module in Figures 2 to 5 can also be applied to the communication system shown in Figure 9.

[0124] The following describes a communication method applicable to the communication system shown in Figure 9, with reference to Figure 11. As shown in Figure 11, the method includes:

[0125] S1101, The baseband module sends an analog baseband signal to the first radio frequency module.

[0126] S1102, The first radio frequency module receives analog baseband signals and converts analog baseband signals into analog radio frequency signals.

[0127] Optionally, in step S1103, the first radio frequency module sends an analog radio frequency signal to the second radio frequency module. Correspondingly, the second radio frequency module receives the analog radio frequency signal.

[0128] Compared to CPRI or eCPRI schemes that rely on digital signals for transmission, the analog signal-based transmission scheme, using the above method, allows for better utilization of channel capacity, thereby enhancing the data transmission capability between the baseband module and the first RF module. When there is a high-capacity data transmission requirement between the baseband module and the second RF module, the enhanced data transmission capability between them eliminates the need to select an optical module supporting higher transmission rates, thus reducing transmission costs.

[0129] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units of the various examples described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0130] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0131] In the embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the base station apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of modules is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple modules or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, indirect coupling or communication connection of devices or modules, and may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0132] The modules described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as modules may or may not be physical modules; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0133] In addition, the functional modules in the embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each module can exist physically separately, or two or more modules can be integrated into one module.

[0134] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication system, characterized in that, include: Baseband module, first module, and first radio frequency module; The baseband module is used to send digital baseband signals to the first module; The first module is configured to: receive the digital baseband signal, convert the digital baseband signal into an analog radio frequency signal, and send the analog radio frequency signal to the first radio frequency module; The first radio frequency module is used to receive the analog radio frequency signal.

2. The communication system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first module is the second radio frequency module.

3. The communication system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The duplex mode supported by the second radio frequency channel in the first radio frequency module is the same as the duplex mode supported by the third radio frequency channel in the second radio frequency module, or the duplex mode supported by the second radio frequency channel in the first radio frequency module is different from the duplex mode supported by the third radio frequency channel in the second radio frequency module.

4. The communication system according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The first radio frequency module includes a first number of radio frequency channels, and the second radio frequency module includes a second number of radio frequency channels. The first number is different from the second number, or the first number is the same as the second number.

5. The communication system according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The first radio frequency module supports a first bandwidth, and the second radio frequency module supports a second bandwidth. The first bandwidth is different from the second bandwidth, or the first bandwidth is the same as the second bandwidth.

6. The communication system of any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, The second radio frequency module includes at least one radio frequency unit.

7. The communication system of claim 1, wherein, The first module is a hub module.

8. The communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by, The first module is further configured to map a first carrier to a first radio frequency channel, wherein the first carrier is used to carry the digital baseband signal, the first radio frequency channel is used to carry the analog radio frequency signal, the first carrier includes M carriers, and the first radio frequency channel includes N radio frequency channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1.

9. The communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by, The first radio frequency module includes at least one radio frequency unit.

10. The communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by, The communication system also includes core network equipment, which communicates with the first radio frequency module.

11. A communication system, characterized by include: Baseband module, first RF module and second RF module; The baseband module is used to send analog baseband signals to the first radio frequency module; The first radio frequency module is configured to: receive the analog baseband signal, convert the analog baseband signal into the analog radio frequency signal, and send the analog radio frequency signal to the second radio frequency module; The second radio frequency module is used to receive the analog radio frequency signal.

12. The communication system of claim 11, wherein, The baseband module includes a second processing unit and a third communication interface; The second processing unit is used to convert the digital baseband signal into the analog baseband signal; The third communication interface is used to send the analog baseband signal to the first radio frequency module.

13. The communication system according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The first radio frequency module is further configured to map a first carrier to a first radio frequency channel. The first carrier is used to carry the analog baseband signal, and the first radio frequency channel is used to carry the analog radio frequency signal. The first carrier includes M carriers, and the first radio frequency channel includes N radio frequency channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1.

14. The communication system of any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, The first radio frequency module includes a first communication interface, a first processing unit, and a second communication interface; The first communication interface is used to receive the analog baseband signal; The first processing unit is configured to convert the analog baseband signal into the analog radio frequency signal; The second communication interface is used to send the analog radio frequency signal to the second radio frequency module.

15. The communication system according to claim 14, characterized in that, The first processing unit is further configured to map a first carrier to a first radio frequency channel, wherein the first carrier is used to carry the analog baseband signal, the first radio frequency channel is used to carry the analog radio frequency signal, the first carrier includes M carriers, and the first radio frequency channel includes N radio frequency channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1.

16. The communication system according to any one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that, The communication system also includes core network equipment, which communicates with the second radio frequency module.

17. The communication system according to any one of claims 11 to 16, characterized in that, The duplex mode supported by the second radio frequency channel in the first radio frequency module is the same as the duplex mode supported by the third radio frequency channel in the second radio frequency module, or the duplex mode supported by the second radio frequency channel in the first radio frequency module is different from the duplex mode supported by the third radio frequency channel in the second radio frequency module.

18. The communication system according to any one of claims 11 to 17, characterized in that, The first radio frequency module includes a first number of radio frequency channels, and the second radio frequency module includes a second number of radio frequency channels. The first number is different from the second number, or the first number is the same as the second number.

19. The communication system according to any one of claims 11 to 18, characterized in that, The first radio frequency module supports a first bandwidth, and the second radio frequency module supports a second bandwidth. The first bandwidth is different from the second bandwidth, or the first bandwidth is the same as the second bandwidth.

20. A communication method, characterized in that, include: The baseband module sends digital baseband signals to the first module; The first module receives the digital baseband signal, converts the digital baseband signal into an analog radio frequency signal, and sends the analog radio frequency signal to the first radio frequency module.

21. The communication method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The first module is the second radio frequency module.

22. The communication method according to claim 21, characterized in that, The duplex mode supported by the second radio frequency channel in the first radio frequency module is the same as the duplex mode supported by the third radio frequency channel in the second radio frequency module, or the duplex mode supported by the second radio frequency channel in the first radio frequency module is different from the duplex mode supported by the third radio frequency channel in the second radio frequency module.

23. The communication method according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that, The first radio frequency module includes a first number of radio frequency channels, and the second radio frequency module includes a second number of radio frequency channels. The first number is different from the second number, or the first number is the same as the second number.

24. The communication method according to any one of claims 21 to 23, characterized in that, The first radio frequency module supports a first bandwidth, and the second radio frequency module supports a second bandwidth. The first bandwidth is different from the second bandwidth, or the first bandwidth is the same as the second bandwidth.

25. The communication method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The first module is a hub module.

26. The communication method according to any one of claims 20 to 25, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first module maps a first carrier to a first radio frequency channel. The first carrier is used to carry the digital baseband signal, and the first radio frequency channel is used to carry the analog radio frequency signal. The first carrier includes M carriers, and the first radio frequency channel includes N radio frequency channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1.

27. A communication method, characterized in that, include: The baseband module sends digital baseband signals to the first radio frequency module; The first radio frequency module receives the digital baseband signal, converts the digital baseband signal into the analog radio frequency signal, and sends the analog radio frequency signal to the second radio frequency module; The second radio frequency module receives the analog radio frequency signal.

28. The communication method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The baseband module includes a second processing unit and a third communication interface, and the method further includes: The second processing unit converts the digital baseband signal into the analog baseband signal; The third communication interface sends the analog baseband signal to the first radio frequency module.

29. The communication method according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first radio frequency module maps a first carrier to a first radio frequency channel. The first carrier is used to carry the analog baseband signal, and the first radio frequency channel is used to carry the analog radio frequency signal. The first carrier includes M carriers, and the first radio frequency channel includes N radio frequency channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1.

30. A communication method, characterized in that, include: The baseband module sends digital baseband signals to the first radio frequency module via the first carrier wave; The first radio frequency module receives the digital baseband signal through the first carrier, converts the digital baseband signal into a digital radio frequency signal, maps the first carrier to the first radio frequency channel, and sends the digital radio frequency signal to the second radio frequency module through the first radio frequency channel. The first carrier includes M carriers, and the first radio frequency channel includes N radio frequency channels, where M and N are both positive integers greater than or equal to 1.

31. The communication method according to claim 30, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second radio frequency module receives the digital radio frequency signal.

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