Vodafone has announced that it has successfully tested voice and data over OpenRAN with the help of software specialist firm Mavenir. According to the network operator, an OpenRAN mast is small enough to be deployed in a workplace, giving businesses dedicated mobile coverage. Vodafone also said it successfully tested containerisation software too which will give businesses greater control of their OpenRAN mast.
Commenting on the developments, Andrea Dona, Vodafone’s UK Chief Network Officer, said:
“OpenRAN is opening doors to simplified and intuitive connectivity solutions. For our wider network deployment strategy, OpenRAN is enabling us to work with a wider pool of suppliers and to avoid vendor lock-in scenarios that might prevent us from taking advantage of the latest innovations. The same could be said for enterprise connectivity solutions.”
During the most recent tests, Vodafone said it containerised the software used to control the mast’s radio transmitter and receiver. In the future, it may containerise other software too which would eventually give businesses more flexibility about which software features they need.
According to Vodafone, the main benefit of containerised software is that all of the dependencies are bundled up in one package. These containerised packages can then be installed and removed in a simple fashion without leaving residue on the system. It’s important for OpenRAN that software runs properly so these bundles can reduce the number of software-related problems.
