What is a small cell in 5G?

Small cells are a new part of the 5G platform that increase network capacity and speed, while also having a lower deployment cost than macrocells. The compact size of a small cell requires that all components – especially power converters – provide high eficiency, better thermals and eventually the best power density possible.

What is 5G NR & how does it work?

The 5G new radio (NR) standard allows more components to switch off or go to sleep when the base station is in idle mode and requires far fewer transmissions of always-on signalling transmissions. Equipment deep sleep, a basic function that is introduced in the initial stage of the 5G deployment, can be applied to maximize energy saving efficiency.

Can network energy saving technologies mitigate 5G energy consumption?

This Technical Report explores how network energy saving technologies, such as carrier shutdown, channel shutdown, symbol shutdown etc., that have emerged since the 4G era, can be leveraged to mitigate 5G energy consumption.

How do small cells fit into the 5G ecosystem?

A cell tower (also called a macrocell) is a huge umbrella used to provide radio signals to thousands of users in large areas with minimal obstructions. To extend the coverage of a macrocell, distributive antenna systems (DASs) are used in conjunction with the cell tower.

How does a small cell base station affect a smartphone's battery life?

When a mobile device is close to a small-cell base station, the power needed to transmit the signal is much lower compared to the power needed to transmit a signal from a cell tower far away, thus extending smartphone battery life.

What is the trend in 5G radio applications?

The trend in 5G radio applications is to use higher frequencies and shorter wavelengths. Increasing the frequency increases the speed of sending/ receiving signals and helps shrink the size of the antenna, which in turn shrinks the size of the cell.