Software Configurable RDU for DAS Co-Channel Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless and mobile network operators face challenges in maximizing the capacity of Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) while ensuring cost-effective deployments and high remote unit availability, particularly in managing high data-traffic growth rates and providing efficient multimedia content delivery.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a software configurable repeater digital unit (RDU) in DAS networks, which allows for optical feeding and configuration in star or daisy chain configurations, enabling efficient signal routing and multiplexing of multiband signals from multiple Off-Air Repeaters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional DAS networks are deployed to provide wireless coverage, then network capacity and remote unit availability are improved, but co-channel interference and signal degradation occur
Solution Approach 1:
An optical intermediary (optical cable/fiber) is introduced between the RDU and DAU to transmit signals. This optical medium acts as a mediator that carries digital signals without introducing co-channel interference or signal degradation, resolving the contradiction between maintaining remote unit availability and eliminating harmful interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional electrical/coaxial signal transmission with optical signal transmission. This substitution eliminates the electromagnetic interference issues inherent in electrical systems while maintaining signal integrity over long distances, thereby improving reliability without generating harmful factors.
2Productivity
If more Off-Air Repeaters are added to increase DAS capacity, then network coverage and bandwidth are improved, but device complexity and deployment cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The RDU is designed as a universal unit that can handle multiple frequency bands and operators simultaneously. By making the repeater unit multi-functional, the system can increase network capacity by adding more RDUs without proportionally increasing complexity, as each unit performs the same standardized functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The DAS network is segmented into independent functional units (RDU and DAU) that can be deployed and configured separately. This modular segmentation allows incremental capacity expansion by adding individual units without requiring complex reconfiguration of the entire system, thereby improving productivity while managing device complexity.
3Speed
If Off-Air Repeaters are deployed to relay RF signals, then signal coverage is improved, but signal degradation and interference occur over distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes electrical signal transmission with optical signal transmission in the fixed connection between RDU and DAU. Optical signals experience minimal attenuation and no electromagnetic interference over long distances, maintaining signal integrity and preventing information loss while enabling long-distance transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical cable serves as an intermediary medium that preserves signal quality during transmission. Unlike electrical cables that suffer from resistance, capacitance, and electromagnetic interference, the optical intermediary maintains signal integrity, thereby preventing degradation and information loss over distance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the stability and capacity of DAS networks by eliminating co-channel interference and signal degradation, allowing for cost-effective deployments and improved remote unit availability, while supporting increased broadband and multimedia demands.
Implementation Method 1
transporting a converted digital version of the RF signal optically to a digital access unit (DAU)
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments may allow remote base transceiver stations (BTSs) physically located away from a local source of users to be able to provide local service as if the remote BTSs were at or near the local source of users. Some embodiments may include a plurality of BTSs, each having one or more sectors, and one or more digital access units (DAUs). Embodiments may also include a plurality of repeater digital units (RDUs), where each RDU may be configured to communicate to at least one of the plurality of BTSs and may be operable to route signals optically to the one or more DAUs. Embodiments may also include a plurality of digital remote units (DRUs) located at a location remote to the one or more DAUs, wherein the plurality of remote DRUs may be operable to transport signals to the one or more DAUs.