Convergent radio and fibre architectures for high-speed access

This paper presents an innovative high-bandwidth access network architecture that offers transparent transport services for fixed (≥ 1 Gbps) and mobile applications (LTE and beyond). The main novelty is the development of a high-functionality, low-energy active remote node (ARN) offering high-speed switching and statistical-multiplexing features for maximal exploitation of available network resources, together with radio and legacy systems compatibility, taking advantage of the required powering at the remote base stations (RBSs). The proposed architecture enables an optimized and sophisticated management and control plane, allowing service providers to transparently monitor their connections, so simplifying network management and application interoperability with heterogeneous networks. Although inherently future-proofed, the proposed network platform is also intrinsically compatible with existing fibre and wireless access solutions in an open access context. In addition, its low-energy, and low-cost design offers an environmentally sustainable technology solution, whilst acting as a critical enabler for new smart services, e-society initiatives, and intelligent lifestyle management.