“By utilizing base stations that support open interfaces, we will flexibly and efficiently deploy 5G networks that meet various use cases in the 5G era…”

NEC is supplying NTT DOCOMO with radio units that will become part of the company’s growing 5G infrastructure. The new units are designed to serve as equipment for 5G base stations, and with a compact and energy-efficient form factor that makes them easy to install on rooftops, walls, and other out-of-the-way locations. 

The NEC shipments include three different types of radio units that support the 3.7GHz, 4.5GHz and 28GHz bands. The units are all compliant with the Open Radio Access Network Alliance’s fronthaul interface specifications, which means that NTT DOCOMO’s 5G network will be an open interface that enables a wide variety of 5G applications.   

“By utilizing base stations that support open interfaces, we will flexibly and efficiently deploy 5G networks that meet various use cases in the 5G era,” said NTT DOCOMO Executive VP Hiroshi Nakamura. “We will accelerate the co-creation of 5G services and markets with vertical industry partners.”

NEC is a member of DOCOMO’s 5G Open Partner Program. The two companies have previously collaborated on several 5G projects, including a facial recognition trial and a streaming trial in which 8K video was transmitted to a high speed train. The new equipment should pave the way for even more 5G experimentation in the future.