Control Word Transmission via Descriptor Table in 5G Radio Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G communication systems, the existing Ethernet forwarding interface protocols require high timing precision and complex hardware circuits for control word transmission between Radio Equipment Controllers (REC) and master Radio Equipment (RE), leading to increased implementation difficulty and message flow complexity.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for control word transmission that utilize a control word descriptor information table to extract and fill control words into a Common Public Radio Interface (CPRI) transmitter or receiver, reducing the need for high-precision timing and simplifying hardware implementation by transmitting control words in a CPRI protocol format, thereby decreasing the flow of control word messages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Ethernet forwarding interface protocol (RoE/eCPRI) is used between REC and master RE, then flexibility for 5G networking scenarios is improved, but timing precision requirements and hardware circuit complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments control word transmission into two independent paths: Ethernet protocol for control word messages between REC and master RE, and CPRI protocol for IQ data and control words between master RE and slave REs. This segmentation allows each protocol to operate independently with its own timing requirements, reducing the burden on the REC-master RE interface while maintaining 5G networking flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The master RE acts as an intermediary that converts Ethernet protocol control word messages into CPRI protocol format for transmission to slave REs. This intermediary function isolates the REC from direct CPRI timing requirements, allowing the REC to use the more flexible Ethernet protocol while slave REs receive properly formatted CPRI control words through the master RE.
2Measurement precision
If time division multiplexing control words are transmitted in strict accordance with superframe timing, then control word transmission accuracy is improved, but message flow complexity and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic protocol conversion where the master RE adapts control word timing and format based on the specific protocol requirements of slave REs. Instead of rigid superframe timing throughout the entire system, the master RE dynamically adjusts timing parameters when converting from Ethernet to CPRI protocol, maintaining accuracy while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes protocol parameters at the master RE interface: Ethernet protocol parameters (flexible timing, message-based) are converted to CPRI protocol parameters (strict superframe timing, embedded control words). This parameter transformation allows the REC to operate with relaxed timing requirements while slave REs receive properly synchronized control words.
3Adaptability or versatility
If protocol conversion from RoE/eCPRI to CPRI is performed at master RE, then compatibility with slave REs is improved, but control word message flow and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts control word information from Ethernet protocol messages at the master RE and reformats it for CPRI protocol transmission to slave REs. By taking out only the essential control word data from the Ethernet message structure and transmitting it in compact CPRI format, the system maintains slave RE compatibility while reducing message flow complexity compared to transmitting full Ethernet messages.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a method and an apparatus for control word transmission, and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The method for control word transmission comprises acquiring a control word descriptor information table configured to indicate attribute information of at least one control word, extracting a control word from a control word payload according to the control word descriptor information table, and filling the extracted control word into a common public radio interface (CPRI) control word transmitter.