Showing papers by "Simon Rommel published in 2019"

High-Capacity 5G Fronthaul Networks Based on Optical Space Division Multiplexing

Abstract: The introduction of 5G mobile networks, bringing multi-Gbit/s user data rates and reduced latency, opens new opportunities for media generation, transport and distribution, as well as for new immersive media applications. The expected use of millimeter-wave carriers and the strong network densification resulting from a much reduced cell size—which enable the expected performance of 5G—pose major challenges to the fronthaul network. Space division multiplexing (SDM) in the optical domain has been suggested for ultra-high capacity fronthaul networks that naturally support different classes of fronthaul traffic and further enable the use of analog radio-over-fiber and advanced technologies, such as optical beamforming. This paper discusses the introduction of SDM with multi-core fibers in the fronthaul network as suggested by the blueSPACE project, regarding both digitized and analog radio-over-fiber fronthaul transport as well as the introduction of optical beamforming for high-capacity millimeter-wave radio access. Analog and digitized radio-over-fiber are discussed in a scenario featuring parallel fronthaul for different radio access technologies, showcasing their differences and potential when combined with SDM.

Analog Radio Over Fiber Fronthaul for High Bandwidth 5G Millimeter-Wave Carrier Aggregated OFDM

Abstract: The increasing demands for high capacity and ultra-low latency services require to introduce a 5G mobile communications infrastructure based on a centralized radio access network with space division multiplexed optical fronthaul using radio-over-fiber. The transmission of carrier aggregated 5G OFDM signals over an analog radio-over-fiber fronthaul link is experimentally demonstrated. Multi-Gbit/s data rates are achieved in limited bandwidth, with BER below the 25% overhead FEC limit after millimeter-wave wireless transmission over 2.2 m.

The Optical Fiber and mmWave Wireless Convergence for 5G Fronthaul Networks

Abstract: The most radical evolution in recent mobile communication technology is imminent in the coming years. The fronthaul network architecture is part of this evolution and is expected to support dense deployment of infrastructure to provide increased bandwidth and ultra-low latency for 5th generation (5G) networks in a cost-effective manner. The new fronthaul architecture called cloud radio access network (C-RAN) has been introduced over the last years to increase scalability, manageability, and flexibility of mobile systems. In this context, this paper addresses the principal technology enablers of the C-RAN 5G fronthaul architecture, namely radio-over-fiber, ribbon optical fibers, wavelength-division multiplexing, and millimeter wave (mmWave) frequencies. The convergence of optical fiber networks and mmWave radio pave the way towards a truly efficient fronthaul infrastructure for 5G mobile communications with seamless connectivity for millions of devices and quality-of-service guarantees in terms of latency for the first time ever. We perceive a network scenario with seamless starting and ending interfaces by exploiting space diversity in both radio frequency and optical domains with efficient integrated photonics technology. Furthermore, we introduce the ongoing developments of the Eindhoven-based 5G Brainport testbed towards an open environment for validation and test of end-to-end emerging applications benefitting from the 5G key-performance indicators.

Analog Radio-over-Fiber 5G Fronthaul Systems: blueSPACE and 5G-PHOS Projects Convergence

Abstract: The fifth generation (5G) mobile systems can be considered the way to ubiquitous Internet, pervasive computing paradigm, and a revolution in industries like automotive, media and entertainment, and eHealth. New 5G fronthaul systems based on centralized radio access networks will eventually use technology enablers such as reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexers, space-division multiplexing, ribbon fibers, software-defined networking, multiple-input multiple-output signaling, analog radio-over-fiber signals, and beamforming. In this context, this paper addresses the principal technology enablers of the 5G PPP phase 2 projects blueSPACE and 5G-PHOS and their potential interoperability. The convergence of 5G key-performance indicators (KPIs) along with methodologies and usage scenarios is also addressed. Furthermore, the 2020 European championship is perceived here as a unique opportunity to leverage a 5G pan-European trial platform. The technologies developed in both projects are seen as potential candidates for next generation mobile networks, where ultra-low latency, energy efficiency, and millions of connected devices are major network KPIs requirements.

Beyond 5G - wireless data center connectivity

Abstract: With the digitalization of industry and society, data centers have grown into an essential key strategic infrastructure, centralizing the processing, storage and distribution of vast amounts of information. Through continuing centralization, their size grows ever larger, while at the same time they need to remain flexible and dynamic to adapt to the temporary nature and diverse requirements of many tasks. Modular data centers can fulfil this requirement, allowing quick deployment and provisioning, while being highly reconfigurable - however, in such data centers interconnectivity is a complex and difficult issue. Wired connections based on optical fibers are the standard in data centers, but come at a significant cost and lack reconfigurability. The introduction of wireless connectivity at millimeter and tera-Hertz frequencies offers similar capacities, while allowing dynamic and re configurable deployment and wireless or hybrid data center architectures have been suggested. In this context, the innovations in high capacity millimeter wave communications and in the convergence of optical and wireless networking developed for 5G mobile networks may offer a potential technology candidate for high-density and high-capacity data center network deployments. Such networks allow the layout and topology of the network to be changed on demand and to adapt to the changing needs of different applications, creating a data center network that matches the multi-purpose nature of the computation and storage hardware. In this paper, the recent trends in wireless technologies for data centers are reviewed and connected to the innovations of optical and wireless convergence seen in 5G networks, perceiving a data center network that is better able to cope with the demanding requirements in terms of network reconfigurability, installation and running cost, as well as power consumption and cooling efficiency.

The Integration of 5G, PON and VLC Technologies for Ubiquitous Connectivity in Autonomous and Cooperative Systems

Abstract: The fifth-generation (5G) of mobile communications is expected to enable emerging use cases like autonomous driving vehicles, cooperative robotics, and innovative healthcare systems. These applications primarily will be available in ultra-dense urban areas, where optical fiber infrastructure is already deployed and will become part of the 5G ecosystem. The further integration of fiber and mobile along with optical wireless technology like visible light communications (VLC) can both enable never thought before use cases and satisfy challenging key performance indicators such as increased number of connected devices, lower energy consumption, and reduced latency. In this context, we introduce the integration of 5G, optical fiber network, and VLC technologies for creating end-to-end connectivity solutions and supporting new use cases in dense urban areas. We describe the network architecture and its functionalities upon the integrated technologies. We also describe and exploit several use cases for highly-dynamic and -densely populated urban areas that can be for the first time simplified by using the proposed integrated solution. The integration of different technologies is perceived here as a unique prospective communication platform towards ubiquitous communication with anywhere, anytime, anyhow connectivity for any use case or business case that can arise in the future.

Enhanced Modal Dispersion Estimation Enabled by Chromatic Dispersion Compensation in Optical Vector Network Analysis

Abstract: Component characterization is fundamental for understanding the limits of optical devices, sub-systems, and transmission systems. With the introduction of space division multiplexing in optical fiber transmission systems, new impairments, such as mode dependent loss and differential mode dispersion arise. Spatially-diverse optical vector network analyzers are capable of measuring these characteristics in a fast single sweep over a very large bandwidth. As a result of this large bandwidth, these analyzers are sensitive to differential chromatic dispersion within the interferometric measurement setup. This study discusses the influence and compensation of differential chromatic dispersion in such systems. Partial chromatic dispersion compensation is demonstrated to improve the representation and accuracy of impulse response measurements obtained from optical vector network analyzers for fibers and components with large differential chromatic dispersion. Analysis of a 39-core few-mode multi-core fiber is discussed, reporting variances of −2.9–0.1 ps/nm, and 0.6–6.9 ps/nm for the two mode groups, respectively, between the few-mode cores. A correlation with the total impulse response is observed. Furthermore, a maximum propagation skew of 20 ns between cores is observed after 13.6 km.

Quantum Data Encryption as a Service on Demand: Eindhoven QKD Network Testbed

Abstract: The widespread acceptance and deployment of quantum key distribution (QKD) for data encryption requires a better understanding of the technology concerning device-to-system interfacing and network performance from current vendors. Despite the existence of a few QKD testbeds worldwide, they are neither open-access nor capable of validating components from different system and component vendors business cases. User trials in testbeds have yet to yield a robust, open business case. This paper introduces the open-access QKD testbed currently being developed in the Eindhoven region which will focus on the creation of an open environment for end-to-end validation of distinct business cases, QKD security proofs, and technology certification and standardization. At this site, a quantum-to-the-home network scenario for providing quantum encryption as a service on demand, for end-to-end security to end-users, is also proposed. It is expected that this testbed will lead to a better understanding of what further developments are required for current networks to be augmented with QKD.

Bidirectional K-Band Photonic/Wireless Link for 5G Communications

Abstract: A bidirectional analogue radio-over-fiber link relying on photonic heterodyning and time-division duplex is experimentally demonstrated, successfully transmitting 5G OFDM signals with data rates of 2.4 Gbit/s and 1.2 Gbit/s in down- and uplink directions over 4 m of wireless distance. An optical frequency comb laser is used together with a demultiplexing module based on injection locking to generate stable K-band (18 – 27 GHz) signals, which eliminates the need for complex high-speed electronics for mm-wave generation.

Chromatic Dispersion Analysis and Compensation in a Large Core-Count Few-Mode Multi-Core Fiber Based on Optical Vector Network Analysis

Abstract: Chromatic dispersion in a large core-count 3-mode fiber is analyzed, observing up to 0.75 ps/(nm· km) variations between mode groups. Furthermore, digital CD compensation is shown to relax the stringent path length matching required in such systems.

Flexible resource provisioning of coherent PONs based on Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access and CAP signals

Abstract: Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA) technique and Carrierless Amplitude Phase (CAP) modulation have been used to demonstrate pay-as-you-grow coherent Passive Optical Networks (PON) and providing a 10 Gbps aggregate data rate

SDN/NFV 5G Fronthaul Networks Integrating Analog/Digital RoF, Optical Beamforming, Power over Fiber and Optical SDM Technologies

Abstract: This paper presents the novel SDN/NFV 5G fronthaul network scenarios deployed in the blueSPACE project. blueSPACE envisions the upgrade of the fronthaul network to include optical SDM transmission for further increasing the network capacity. One of the novelties is the introduction of ARoF transceivers to reduce the 5G fronthaul bandwidth requirements, in addition to the DRoF solutions that are used for the 4G fronthaul interface and the 3GPP’s NGFI. Moreover, ARoF transceivers enable to develop optical beamforming technologies for beam steering and multi-beam transmission. Finally, power of fiber solutions to remotely feed small cells are also considered.

ARoF-Fed Antenna Architectures for 5G Networks

Abstract: 5G mm-wave communications requires a highly densified network of radio access stations to ensure sufficient coverage. Low-complexity nodes based on C-RAN and ARoF fronthaul combined with advanced antenna concepts offer a suitable and potentially low cost technology for single and multi-beam 5G applications.

Extended Range Ultra-Wideband Millimeter-Wave Channel Sounder with Over-The-Air Calibration

Abstract: In this paper, an ultra-wideband millimeter-wave channel sounder is introduced. The channel sounder, consisting of a Vector Network Analyzer and 1 km of fiber, can perform high resolution channel sounding over long distances. A wired response calibration is compared to an over-the-air calibration. It is shown that the over-the-air calibration of the channel sounder increases the dynamic range in the power-delay-profile by 14 dB compared to the wired response calibration.

Digitized Radio-over-Fiber Transceivers for SDM/WDM Back-/Front-Haul

Abstract: In this paper we analyze the perspective of digitized radio over fiber (DRoF) fronthaul, showing how to meet the requirements to cope with the future radio access networks (RANs). This entails the introduction of space division multiplexing (SDM) while increasing the flexibility and capacity of the DRoF transceivers.Since the evolution of the DRoF fronthaul is being revised and re-defined, in the blueSPACE project we propose two different DRoF transceiver options. The first option consists on simple transceiver, based on the recent standard specifications and, therefore, expected to be deployed in the short-term. The second options is a more advanced transceiver that features high flexibility, relying on a strong DSP and targeting a long-term deployment. Besides a basic characterization of both solutions, we also analyze additional aspects related to the design and implementation of these two DRoF solutions and their integration into an SDM based RAN. This includes the programmability and interaction with the control plane.

Physical-Layer Confidentiality by Chaotic Encoding in Radio-Over-Fiber Systems

Abstract: Confidential wireless transmission of a 150 Mb/s chaotic encoded signal with an artificial signal to noise ratio of 0 dB is experimentally demonstrated at 28 GHz. The chaos is generated by a digitally implemented Duffing oscillator system.

High Data Rate W-Band Balanced Schottky Diode Envelope Detector for Broadband Communications

Abstract: This article reports on a W-Band (75–110 GHz) Schottky diode based balanced envelope detector in microstrip technology, featuring a transition from WR-10 to microstrip. The manufactured detector provides 20 GHz of input RF bandwidth within the W-band. A video bandwidth between 4 GHz and 6 GHz is achieved for input RF frequencies between 75 GHz and 88 GHz, allowing error free transmission of signals up to 12 Gbit/s.

Polarization Equalization in Optical Vector Network Analysis for SDM Fiber Characterization

Abstract: Precise characterization of space division multiplexing fibers is a key requirement for their further development and deployment in the field. Optical vector network analysis allows to measure all linear parameters of such fibers in a single, fast acquisition over a large bandwidth. As the reference arm of the optical vector network analyzer must approximately match the length of the measured fiber, additional fiber must be introduced when measuring longer fibers. This results in the polarization of the reference arm varying with wavelength over the sweep range employed in the measurement. The resulting fading of the recorded interference signal produces severe distortions of the measurement and hence must be compensated for. This work introduces a simple equalization technique to compensate for this fading, based on introducing a polarizer in the reference path and recording a fraction of the polarized reference as a correction signal. Applying the inverse of the correction signal to the recorded signal, the impact of the polarization fading is almost entirely removed, as are the corresponding measurement distortions. The proposed technique is validated in the measurement of a 39-core few-mode multi-core fiber, significantly improving measurement of wavelength dependent insertion loss.

W-Band Heterodyne Wireless System with 2.3 GHz Intermediate Frequency Driven Entirely by ErAs:In(Al)GaAs Photoconductors

Abstract: We demonstrate a heterodyne wireless system using only ErAs:In(Al)GaAs photoconductors driven by two independent telecom laser signals. The maximum Intermediate Frequency (IF) was 2.3 GHz, only limited by the bandwidth of the post-detection electronics. The maximum signal-to-carrier ratio achieved was 42.6 dB.

An eHealth-Care Driven Perspective on 5G Networks and Infrastructure

Abstract: This work describes the advancements that next generation mobile networks can bring to emergency services on the basis of a fully 5G enabled medical emergency response scenario. An ambulance service combining autonomous driving, advanced on-board patient monitoring, remote diagnosis and remote control from the hospital is introduced, allowing increased levels of care during patient transport and improved early diagnosis, thus enhancing patient survival rates. Furthermore, it is shown that such an ambulance service requires a variety of different traffic types that can only be supported concurrently and with guaranteed quality of service by a high-performance network fulfilling all 5G key performance indicators. The scenario described combines a multitude of aspects and applications enabled by 5G mobile communications, including autonomous driving, ultra-high definition video streaming, tactile remote interaction and continuous sensing, into a compelling showcase for a 5G enabled future. A centralized radio access 5G network with space division multiplexed optical fronthaul using analog radio-over-fiber and optical beamforming is analyzed, fully supporting SDN and NFV for advanced network slicing and quality of service guarantee.

6G and Fog Node Mobile Systems for Cooperative, Autonomous, and Dynamic Applications

Abstract: The sixth generation (6G) mobile systems will be the ultimate technology to support any networking requirement. 6G along with fog computing mobile nodes can support any application and use case within the supply chain delivery, regardless of the systems of systems complexity. In this paper, a holistic end-to-end framework platform based on the integration and leverage of 6G and fog mobile systems for physically-entangled systems is proposed. The framework platform, which relies on 6G fog enabled-delivery drones, terahertz communication, and artificial intelligence technologies, is described. The framework can be applied for highly cooperative, autonomous, and dynamic applications and systems such as supply chain’s last mile delivery of goods, harbour cranes, and maritime ports to help increasing access to goods in general, reduce traffic congestion and energy comsumption, and ease CO2 emissions from transportation. The proposed framework paves the way towards next generation supply chain management including last mile delivery.