Please find here important notes on implementing Private LTE Networks using CableFree 4G & 5G eNodeb & gNodeB Base stations.
What is Private LTE?
An LTE network is considered to be private when its main purpose is to connect people/things belonging to an enterprise (normally across a campus or site), and where data needs to be kept totally secure by avoiding transmitting it through the core network of a mobile operator. Full private ownership of the whole LTE network – including Base Stations and Core – has several advantages.
Q: How many users are supported?
CableFree enables a very high number of connected users: Exact number depends on the channel width selected. For a 20MHz channel, a CableFree eNodeB can connect 1200 users. For high user counts, please be careful of dimensioning to ensure each user can achieve a useful & acceptable data rate. For your specific model, check the data sheet specifications
Q: Do I need set set an APN?
Most User Equipment (UE, Handset, CPE) devices require an APN to be entered to connect to the LTE network. Note that commodity cellphones have the APN’s for all major public networks inbuilt and will connect automatically. However, for all Private LTE networks, you need to enter the APN details into the user device. This is generally true for all Private LTE networks
Q: What are the maximum download and upload speeds?
The maximum DL and UL speeds for CableFree LTE depend on the eNB model, mode of operation, and if TDD mode, the SubFrame Assignment configuration. Generally, with a 20MHz channel, the eNB provides 110 Mbps DL and 20 Mbps UL. For your specific model, please contact us
Q: What is the typical latency?
For TDD-LTE, 10ms with 2 subscribers. Typical is 20 ms. Jitter is around 1 to 2 ms.
Q: Is GPS included?
Yes, GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, and Galileo timing is included with CableFree outdoor eNBs. The actual antennas are generally external, and may or not be included with your purchase as standard. Please refer to the data sheet specifications for your model
Q: How many eNBs can sync together?
Number of eNB synced together is unlimited
Q: What do I do to avoid a PCI violation?
A Physical Cell Identifier, or Layer 1 identity, is an essential configuration parameter of an LTE radio cell that uniquely identifies each cell site in the wireless network. PCI planning is crucial for quality of service (QoS). Use a PCI calculator or the PCI planning spreadsheet to plan your PCIs. No two eNBs in close proximity to another should have the same PCI number. The more cells you deploy, the more this will matter and can cause problems.
Q: What is the EARFCN?
EARFCN is the centre frequency used, and stands for E-UTRA Absolute Radio Frequency Channel Number. A unique EARFCN number is assigned to each radio channel to calculate the exact frequency of the radio carriers. It represents the centre channel on which a wireless service provider can operate its eNB equipment within a given spectrum band. There is a look-up table which can convert from frequency in MHz to EARFCN
Q: Does a CableFree eNB support fiber?
Some CableFree eNodeB Baseband units can be factory configured with optional Fibre Optic SFP interfaces, which enable Multimode or Singlemode fibre connection to the LTE eNodeB. Options of single fibre operation (BiDi), CWDM and DWDM are offered. Ideally, please ensure you order a model with the desired interface options. Default is copper interface (RJ45) only.
Disclaimer:
This page is intended to be a helpful resource. Information is provided “as is” and no warranty provided to accuracy or completeness of information. In line with our policies of continual improvement, we reserve the right to update this page and information without notice.