Introduction to OpenRAN: Building Blocks and Basics
This lab offers a hands-on introduction to OpenRAN for beginners in telecom. Participants will learn about key components like the Central Unit (CU), Distributed Unit (DU), and RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC). The lab covers OpenRAN’s disaggregated architecture, vendor interoperability, and benefits such as automation and scalability. Practical examples will help explore how OpenRAN supports industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, while also covering protocol stacks, xApps, and performance monitoring tools.
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About The Lab
Prerequisites
Audiences
Lab Architecture
The lab architecture for OpenRAN integrates modular and interoperable components to provide a complete environment for understanding and testing OpenRAN functionalities. It includes a Distributed Unit (DU) and Central Unit (CU) connected via the F1 interface, with the RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) managing network intelligence through XApps and leveraging interfaces like E2. This setup allows users to explore OpenRAN’s flexibility, evaluate performance optimization through KPImon, and test innovative use cases with different Xapps.
Why this Lab ?
The OpenRAN Lab offers a beginner-friendly, hands-on experience designed to introduce the foundational concepts and components of OpenRAN. Participants will explore key elements such as the Central Unit (CU), Distributed Unit (DU), and critical interfaces like F1AP, E2AP, and E1AP. The lab also provides an introduction to the RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC), XApps such KPImon and more, enabling participants to understand their role in optimizing network performance. By the end of this lab, participants will have a clear grasp of how OpenRAN empowers flexibility and innovation in 5G networks and how its components can be leveraged to drive advancements in connectivity.
Lab Objectives
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of RAN concepts and variations.
- Explore the components and standards of the OpenRAN ecosystem.
- Analyze the disaggregated architecture of OpenRAN systems.
- Delve into OpenRAN protocol stacks with practical tools.
- Work with xApps like KPIMON for RIC performance optimization.
- Simulate and test end-to-end scenarios in an OpenRAN environment.
- Monitor key performance metrics for optimizing OpenRAN deployments.
- Understand the role of orchestration frameworks in OpenRAN management.
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