The International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Bengaluru COMET Foundation has developed and designed the best-in-class open radio access network (ORAN) base station solution for creating spectral and energy efficient wireless communications technology for 5G and 5G-advanced radio networks, and it is currently under development for commercialisation.
COMET, one of the 25 technology innovation hubs (TIH) set up under the National Mission for Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) for enhancing the nation’s capabilities in advanced communication systems, is working on ORAN projects, and has emerged as a key player in the domain. This has helped COMET to be at the forefront of development and implementation ORAN base station solutions in partnership with five leading academic institutes. The institutes include IIIT Bengaluru, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad, IIT Bhilai, IIT Roorkee and IIIT-Naya Raipur.
A new niche technological solution for ORAN base stations is scheduled to facilitate high-speed and reliable connectivity at a cost that is viable for unconnected and far-flung areas. ORAN base station solutions, a critical component of next-generation telecommunications infrastructure, disaggregates the software and hardware components of the network infrastructure.
The ORAN base station radio unit development led by Dr Kiran Kuchi, professor at IIT Hyderabad, introduced a revolutionary ORAN technology harnessing a multitude of antennas on cell towers. The breakthrough promises to not only enhance cell coverage but also boost capacity by an impressive three-fold compared to existing 4G networks, thereby optimising spectrum utilisation.
Commenting on the development, Professor Debabrata Das, director, IIIT Bengaluru and chairman – Board, IIITB COMET Foundation, said, “COMET is proud to steer ORAN innovation and development, transforming cellular networks and also to foster collaboration. Our commitment will fulfil the future need of atmanirbhar telecom solutions in India, creating a global impact.”
To ensure smooth functioning of the technology, COMET is also dedicated to nurturing skilled professionals in ORAN technology. Through various skill development programs, workshops, and training sessions, the foundation has empowered numerous individuals with the knowledge and skills essential for success in the 5G and beyond era.
Further, with 6G expected to be launched commercially by 2030, India is geared up by being actively involved in exploring emerging standards in 6G specifically in the area of reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS), as this technology is likely to play a key role in the emerging 6G standard.
These endeavours fostering innovation, collaboration, and skill development in the field of advanced communication systems signify a crucial step towards establishing India as a key player in the global telecom landscape and playing a crucial role in defining global standards of upcoming 6G. They will help in significantly reinforcing the nation’s self-reliance in advanced communication systems and realising the Prime Minister’s vision of a digital India where access to information knows no barriers.
