Kevin Murray

JUST RELEASED: stc's white-paper highlights 5G network densification as a strategy to enhance connectivity, coverage and capacity through macro and small cells, supported by AI, Machine Learning, beamforming, and massive MIMO. It presents AI-driven planning strategy to address the challenges of providing 5G connectivity to urban, suburban and remote areas. Furthermore, it motivates discussion on ways to enable new use cases, such as IoT, AR/VR, and autonomous systems. Please, enjoy your reading. 💟 Reach out to us to discuss growth opportunities in the telecom industry 💟 To gain monthly insights on #technology and #innovations, subscribe to #global5gevolution newsletter (https://lnkd.in/ge9gsyjE) and tune in for the latest edition on “5G Monetisation” 💟 Or subscribe to #global5gevolution YouTube channel (https://lnkd.in/g8M7YvKq) and tune in for the latest episode on “Cyber Space Robotic 5G” ; click comment box #5G #6G #AI 💟 Follow us on Kaneshwaran Govindasamy & Global 5G Evolution

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𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐑𝐀𝐍: 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐨𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬 Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) is a transformative concept in mobile communications, aimed at creating a more flexible, interoperable, and cost-efficient RAN architecture. By disaggregating traditional RAN components and embracing open standards, Open RAN enables network operators to mix and match components from different vendors. 𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐑𝐀𝐍 Radio Unit (O-RU) The Radio Unit is responsible for handling the radio frequency (RF) functions of the RAN. It includes elements like the antenna and the transceiver, which facilitate communication between the mobile devices and the network. In an Open RAN architecture, the RU is designed to be interoperable with different vendors' Distributed Units (DU) and Centralized Units (CU). Distributed Unit (O-DU) The Distributed Unit manages the real-time processing tasks required for radio communication. This includes tasks like encoding, scheduling, and resource allocation. By placing the DU closer to the RU, often at the edge of the network, latency is minimized, improving the performance of applications requiring real-time communication, such as gaming and virtual reality. Centralized Unit (O-CU) The Centralized Unit handles higher-layer protocols and non-real-time functions. These include tasks such as mobility management, session management, and overall control of the data flow. The CU can be located centrally, managing multiple DUs and RUs, leading to more efficient resource utilization. Near-Real-Time RIC (Near-RT RIC) The Near-RT RIC is a critical component for enhancing the performance and efficiency of the RAN through real-time analytics and control. Operating with a latency of less than one second, it enables dynamic radio resource management, interference mitigation, and load balancing. This allows the network to adapt quickly to changing conditions, ensuring optimal performance. Non-Real-Time RIC (Non-RT RIC) The Non-RT RIC focuses on longer-term data analytics and policy-based control to improve the overall efficiency and performance of the RAN. It works on timescales beyond one second and is responsible for tasks such as machine learning model training, policy management, and performance optimization. Insights from the Non-RT RIC are used to inform the Near-RT RIC, creating a feedback loop that enhances the network's adaptability and intelligence. Service Management and Orchestration (SMO) The SMO platform oversees the end-to-end management and orchestration of the RAN and its associated services. It ensures that all components, including the RU, DU, CU, and RICs, work harmoniously. The SMO is crucial for automated network operations, resource allocation, and service delivery, facilitating the deployment of new services and the scaling of network resources. For more content like this, Please follow Sanjay Kumar ↗️ & TelcoLearn

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Some big announcements this week related to the use of #AI in Telco Mobile Networks. Timing couldn't be better as Spectrum Effect was just this week awarded the patent for the use of AI and Machine Learning Models for classifying interference types in Mobile Operator RAN networks. I have strong conviction on AI's ability to drive more efficient and effective operations of mobility networks and ultimately better outcomes for consumers of the services that mobile networks enable. We are in fantastic company to be joined on this journey with the NVIDIA, Ericsson, Nokia, and T-Mobile announcing their intentions to invest in this space. https://lnkd.in/ebB4BM9X

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Highly Dynamic Spectrum Sharing is a key next step in spectrum sharing’s evolution. Join the conversation at the WInnForum’s new task group on the subject. More below: #spectrumsharing #winnforum #globalinnovation

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There's been an interesting update from Telecom Infra Project who's partnering with VIAVI Solutions to expand the testing capabilities of the Viavi Automated Lab-as-a-Service for Open RAN (VALOR). VALOR is the result of a $21.7 million grant from the U.S. National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund (PWSCIF). This announcement is welcome news for TIP, who previously contributed comments on how the NTIA could structure and administer grants, as well as submitting its own grant applications. And while TIP’s own funding submissions were ultimately unsuccessful, this development highlights the organisation’s significant role in the industry. Read the full article on Open & Disaggregated Infrastructure News (ODIN) and sign up to the newsletter to receive these updates straight to your inbox once a week! #OpenRAN #AI #5G #6G #IoT #Mobile #OpenWiFi #OpenTransport #News #Innovation #ConnectedDevices #RedCap #Security #NetZero #Sustainability #NonTerrestrialNetworks #Satellite

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Navigating the Xn Maze: O-RAN WG5's Blueprint for Multi-Vendor Interoperability The implementation of the 3GPP Xn interface such as X2 in multi-vendor environments presents significant challenges, affecting interoperability and network management and optimization in 5G and beyond. The O-RAN Alliance's Working Group 5 (WG5) is at the forefront of addressing these issues to ensure seamless operation and efficient management in next-generation networks. ◼ Interoperability Challenges Differences in how vendors interpret 3GPP's open specifications can lead to discrepancies in parameter handling and signaling mechanisms. Such divergent implementations result in connectivity problems, handover failures, and performance issues like reduced data throughput and increased latency, impacting user experience adversely. ◼ Network Management Complexity Operating a network with equipment from multiple vendors inherently adds complexity. Network operators face challenges in managing diverse proprietary systems and coordinating network functions like power control and interference management, which are handled differently by each vendor’s system. Additionally, diagnosing and resolving issues becomes more complex in a multi-vendor environment, as pinpointing the source of a problem involves navigating through multiple systems. ◼ O-RAN ALLIANCE WG5's Strategic Approaches - Multi-Vendor Profile Specifications WG5 develops multi-vendor profile specifications that are compliant with 3GPP standards but tailored for open, multi-vendor environments. These specifications aim to minimize variability in how standards are interpreted and applied, ensuring that equipment from different vendors can seamlessly interoperate. This not only reduces integration challenges but also enhances network flexibility and vendor competition. - Ensuring Interoperability A primary role of WG5 is to ensure that hardware and software components from different vendors are not only compliant with industry standards but also capable of working together without compatibility issues. WG5 achieves this through detailed interoperability specifications and guidelines that help standardize the behavior of network components across different implementations. ◼ Support for Testing and Certification To validate that vendor implementations are compliant with O-RAN specifications and capable of interoperating with components from other vendors, WG5 supports comprehensive testing and certification programs. These programs are essential for verifying that different components meet the stringent requirements set out in the multi-vendor profile specifications and function correctly within a multi-vendor ecosystem. WG5's efforts are vital for overcoming the interoperability and management challenges associated with the Xn interface implementation in multi-vendor 5G networks. #ORAN #OpenRAN #Xninterface #Interoperability #MultivendorRAN #MRSS #CoMP #DSS #WG5Specifications

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Dynamic Spectrum Sharing and Multi-RAT Spectrum Sharing Through O-RAN Architecture The challenge of limited spectrum availability complicates the transition from 5G to 6G. To address this challenge, simplifying spectrum migration is essential. The integration of Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) within the O-RAN ALLIANCE O-RAN architecture through the use of RIC and SMO offers a promising approach to managing spectrum efficiently as mobile networks evolve. By leveraging advanced RIC AI/ML algorithms and comprehensive data analytics, O-RAN enables dynamic and intelligent spectrum sharing between 5G and 6G. ◼ Implementation of DSS in O-RAN O-RAN facilitates this through its RIC and SMO components. Steps to Implement DSS in O-RAN Step 1: Policy Development and Communication Non-RT RIC: Develops and updates long-term DSS policies based on broad and historical network data, traffic patterns, and predictions. Communication: These policies are communicated to Near-RT RIC via the A1 interface. Step 2: Real-Time Decision Making Near-RT RIC: Receives policies and translates them into actionable, real-time decisions using xApps (applications running in the RIC). It handles the immediate adaptation of spectrum allocation between for example 4G and 5G networks. Step 3: Configuration and Enforcement RAN via E2 interface: Implements the DSS decisions to configure network elements for dynamic spectrum sharing, ensuring efficient resource utilization and optimal service delivery. Integration with SMO SMO Role: Manages overall orchestration and lifecycle management of network functions and service capabilities. It also plays a crucial role in gathering and disseminating data across RICs and network elements. ◼ Training Dataset and Data Collection in SMO/RIC Accurate and comprehensive datasets are essential for training the AI/ML models deployed within the RIC to predict traffic patterns, manage resources, and make informed DSS decisions. The effectiveness of DSS heavily relies on the quality and comprehensiveness of these datasets. Data Collection in SMO/RIC Non-RT RIC Long-Term Data Collection: Aggregates extensive historical network performance data, user mobility patterns, and service usage statistics. Data Sources: Includes external databases, network logs, and telemetry from various network elements interfaced through the O1 and O2 protocols. Near-RT RIC Real-Time Data Collection: Focuses on real-time network states, quality metrics like SINR, throughput levels, and user equipment reports. Dynamic Adaptation: Utilizes this real-time data to adapt and optimize the spectrum sharing dynamically, supporting the continuous tuning of DSS policies. DSS and MRSS capabilities will be essential for the deployment of 5G and beyond, as it ensures that existing services are not disrupted while new services are rolled out. #SpectrumEngineering #ORAN #OpenRAN #SpectrumSharing #DynamicSpectrumSharing #MultiRATSpectrumSharing #6G #SMO #RIC #SpectrumEfficiency

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Ericsson's Special issue Nov Edition: Telecom evolution toward #6G Key Highlights 🧊5G evolution toward 5G Advanced: An overview of 3GPP releases 17 &18 3GPP has already announced its decision to recognize Rel-18 as the first release of 5GAdvanced to highlight the significant evolution of the 5G System (5GS) that it represents The path toward 5G Advanced begins with Rel-17, which includes significant enhancements to several RAN functionalities that are already deployed in live NR networks -Beamforming & multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) -Dynamic spectrum sharing -User equipment power savings -Positioning -Ultra-reliable, low-latency communication -NR coverage -Small data transmission -Non-public networks -Edge computing -Data networks analytics -Reduced-capability user equipment -Non-terrestrial networks (NTN) -NR beyond 52.6GHz -Multicast and broadcast service 3GPP release 18 – introducing 5G Advanced -Key enhancements for e-MBB use cases -Key enhancements for non-eMBB use cases -Cross-domain functionalities for both MBB & non-MBB use cases 🧊6G network architecture– a proposal for early alignment Network architecture in the 6G time frame of 2030; fall into four main categories 1. Enablers of monetization and exposure 2. Automation of network operations 3. Cloud-native design & deployment 4. Network architecture evolution Three main aspects of network architecture evolution that require early industry alignment: 1. Migration & spectrum aggregation 2. Radio-access network architecture evolution 3. Core network architecture evolution Ericsson believes that 6G should be specified in standalone mode only* 🧊Beyond bit-pipes – new opportunities on the 6G platform The role of network platforms -Communication is a cornerstone of all forms of digital business, with networking capabilities setting the boundaries for what can be achieved. Beyond serving as communication tools, today’s networks can also provide: • Tailored & engineered connectivity services, such as QoS guarantees • Information services from traditional positioning information to potential network-based radio-sensing services, the ability to understand the communication status and predicted performance • Value-adding auxiliary services such as computational device offloading or AI as a service, services for distributing large amounts of data, or supporting digital twins Creating a bridge between the connectivity & application business ecosystems is a key objective for 6G 🧊Approaching AI-native RANs through generalization & scalability of learning A holistic vision of an AI-native RAN would be a system designed for AI algorithms, in which a single AI algorithm could learn and govern most networking operations, ranging from the physical layer to Radio Resource Management (RRM) 🎯Follow us on Kaneshwaran Govindasamy & Global 5G Evolution 🎯Check out this month's conference #5g #monetization debate 👇🏽 🎯Click comment box subscribe our #youtube channel #5G

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𝑶𝙥𝒆𝙣 𝙍𝑨𝙉 𝘼𝒓𝙘𝒉𝙞𝒕𝙚𝒄𝙩𝒖𝙧𝒆 Open RAN (Open Radio Access Network) is an architecture concept in the telecommunications industry aimed at disaggregating and opening up the traditionally closed and proprietary RAN (Radio Access Network) systems. Here are the main components of Open RAN: ✅ 𝑹𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒆 𝑹𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒐 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒕 (𝑹𝑹𝑼): RRU is responsible for radio signal processing and transmission/reception functions. In Open RAN, RRUs are often software-defined and can be deployed in a distributed manner, enabling flexibility in network architecture. ✅ 𝑫𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒃𝒖𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒕 (𝑫𝑼): DU handles baseband processing functions such as modulation, encoding, and decoding of data. It interacts with the RRU for radio signal processing. Open RAN allows for the deployment of DUs from different vendors, promoting interoperability and innovation. ✅ 𝑪𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒛𝒆𝒅 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒕 (𝑪𝑼): CU centralizes control plane functions and orchestrates multiple DUs. It manages radio resource allocation, mobility management, and other network-wide functions. Open RAN enables the separation of CU from other RAN components, facilitating network flexibility and scalability. ✅ 𝑵𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒍-𝑻𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝑹𝑰𝑪 (𝑹𝑨𝑵 𝑰𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒓): Near Real-Time RIC is a key element in Open RAN that provides intelligent control and optimization functionalities close to the RAN. It collects real-time network data and performs dynamic optimization of radio resources, such as power control, beamforming, and interference management. Near Real-Time RIC enhances network performance and efficiency by adapting to changing network conditions rapidly. ✅ 𝑵𝒐𝒏-𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒍-𝑻𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝑹𝑰𝑪: Non-Real-Time RIC complements the functionality of Near Real-Time RIC by providing broader network optimization capabilities that do not require real-time responsiveness. It analyzes historical and aggregated network data to perform long-term optimization, capacity planning, and policy definition. Non-Real-Time RIC contributes to overall network efficiency and resource utilization over longer time horizons. ✅ 𝑶𝒑𝒆𝒏 𝑭𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒕-𝑯𝒂𝒖𝒍 𝑰𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒆: The interface between RRUs and DUs/CUs is crucial for interoperability in Open RAN. This interface is typically based on open standards, allowing equipment from different vendors to communicate seamlessly. ✅ 𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝑴𝒂𝒏𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑶𝒓𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 (𝑺𝑴𝑶): SMO is responsible for the management and orchestration of Open RAN components. It includes functions such as network monitoring, configuration management, and resource optimization. Open RAN SMO frameworks adhere to open standards and APIs, enabling multi-vendor interoperability. Did I miss anything❓ If Yes, Please feel free to add. For more content like this, Please follow Sanjay Kumar ↗️ and TelcoLearn #5g #4g #openran

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One of most under looked component in network is antenna. Operators are purely looking commercials. Although its a passive item, but choosing a right antenna is important. Money saved on a wrong or low quality antenna is much much lower than money spent over the years to better the customer experience.

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In Optica OPN, Infinera’s Tim Doiron discusses how AI has the power to transform the reliability, resiliency, and anticipatory nature of our networks and really turbocharge in many ways the efficiency of what we do and how fast we can go. Find out more: #OpticalNetworking #AI #ArtificialIntelligence

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5G RAN software is very processor intensive, latency-sensitive, has high functional complexity and needs to be very scalable. There are a few design patterns that are used in the RAN industry to address the various challenges. I plan to talk about some of these design patterns via my YouTube channel during my spare time. I have created the first video in this series where I dive into a design pattern known as “TTI Pipeline”. The TTI pipeline pattern was used in 4G RAN as well, but it becomes a lot more useful in 5G where we have higher scaling needs, shorter TTI durations and a higher number of HARQ processes. I invite RAN software professionals to review the content and share your thoughts on these topics which may benefit the community at large

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Last week's Top 5 #OpenRAN stories based on the number of clicks on my weekly newsletter! Take a look and subscribe to stay ahead of all the latest Open RAN news.

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If current trends continue, RAN Automation will be even more important for Communication Service Providers (CSPs) to manage the growing complexity of their networks. 🌐 This is where rApps can come to their rescue. rApps are software applications designed to run on the Non-Real Time RAN Intelligent Controller to realize different RAN management and optimization use cases in an automated way. What’s more, now Ericsson has just published the telecom industry's first rApps directory that currently offers 20 rApps for commercial use to members of its Ericsson Intelligent Automation Platform ecosystem, including ISVs and leading CSPs. I suggest having a look at the directory below! How do you see the role of rApps develop in the future? #TeamEricsson #rApps #NetworkAutomation #RAN

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📶 The latest statistics on 5G indicate growth, with projections of connections expected to increase from 1.6 billion to 2.1 billion between the end of 2023 and the end of 2024. More networks are operating in standalone mode compared to an intermediate stage of 5G called non-standalone, which is based on LTE core technologies. So, there are some good dynamics; the number of 'real' 5G networks is on the rise, and I’d like to share some updates. As we increasingly assess the security of 5G SA networks, here's what we find as a result of security testing on systems to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses before actual hackers can exploit them: 📊 The sample size is getting bigger (a few dozens of networks assessed), but the industry's average is still almost useless to define — with quite low protections (very exposed) in some cases, and very secure environments in others. This makes us think there is still a long way to go in sharing and implementing best practices, incentivizing secure deployments, and aiming to increase the average level of protection to be above medium. 🤫 The largest number of accomplished attacks leads to the discovery of network structure, successful and, in many cases, undetected lateral movements within the network, and disclosure of subscriber information. 🚫 Denial of service, either for network function or for a group of subscribers, is still ranked second, showing that hackers' ability to impact the service, potentially causing outages, is quite likely. ⚙️ Profile disclosure of network functions and manipulation of network configurations, being more challenging to achieve, but very reasonable to focus on from an adversarial point of view, are in third place. As an example, here is the type of denial of service: a hacker can force mass deregistration of network elements, leading to service outage for subscribers. 🔌 The execution of an HTTP2 /nnrf-nfm/v1/nf-instances/{nfInstanceID} request deletes the profile of the network function that was registered in NRF. The availability of network functions, whose profiles were deleted in this manner, could be disrupted for 2 to 30 minutes, depending on the network configuration or the duration of repeated attacks. General advice to mitigate such impacts: ✔️ Implement obligatory authentication and authorization of services. 🛡️ Properly filter and police traffic between network segments. 📋 Conduct security audits to ensure the above two measures are correctly applied and that there are no critical errors in network configuration. #5G #Cybersecurity #NetworkSecurity #IntegrationChallenges #SecurityGen

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10 Trending Topics Currently Shaping Discussion in Industry Telecom 1⚡️5G Expansion and Standalone 5G: The continued rollout and adoption of 5G networks is accelerating, with a focus on standalone 5G that promises enhanced speed and lower latency. This is enabling new applications in sectors like smart cities, healthcare, and gaming​ 2⚡️Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation: AI is revolutionizing telecom operations, from improving network management to enhancing customer service through automation. The use of AI to predict network issues and automate routine tasks is becoming widespread​ 3⚡️Internet of Things (IoT) Integration: With billions of connected devices, telecom companies are expanding their networks to support IoT applications, particularly in industrial sectors (IIoT). This trend also involves merging satellite communications with terrestrial networks for global IoT connectivity​ 4⚡️Edge Computing: Reducing data latency by processing data closer to the source is becoming crucial, especially for applications requiring real-time data, like autonomous vehicles and gaming​ 5⚡️Cloud and Network Virtualization: The shift to cloud-based technologies and network functions virtualization (NFV) is allowing telecom operators to manage networks more flexibly and efficiently, leading to faster service deployment and cost savings​ 6⚡️Cybersecurity Enhancements: As networks grow more complex, cybersecurity remains a top concern. Telecom companies are adopting AI-driven threat detection and robust data protection measures to stay ahead of rising cyber threats​ 7⚡️Sustainability Initiatives: Telecom providers are increasingly focused on reducing their carbon footprint through renewable energy sources and more energy-efficient network operations. Bridging the digital divide is also part of sustainability efforts​ 8⚡️Private 5G Networks: There is a growing interest in deploying private 5G networks, particularly in industries like manufacturing and healthcare, where secure, high-performance networks are needed​ 9⚡️Enhanced Connectivity Solutions: With advancements like Wi-Fi 6 and satellite internet, telecom companies are working to improve connectivity in underserved areas, helping to bridge the digital divide​ 10⚡️Preparations for 6G: Although 5G is still being rolled out, discussions and early research on 6G are underway, promising even higher speeds, lower latency, and transformative applications in sectors such as healthcare and virtual reality

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The microwave backhaul system market is on a remarkable growth trajectory, with an expected CAGR of 10.7 percent from 2022 to 2032! 📈 As of 2022, the market stands at USD 1.5 billion and is projected to reach USD 4.1 billion by 2032. This surge reflects the growing need for efficient data transfer over radio links, crucial for supporting high-speed digital communication and emerging technologies like 5G. 🌐 Microwave backhaul systems offer significant advantages, including improved spectrum usage and low maintenance costs, making them an attractive choice for enterprises across various sectors, from border security to HD video surveillance. Key drivers for this growth include the increasing demand for high-speed data transfer and the integration of these systems into critical infrastructure. However, challenges such as managing data traffic remain. What are your thoughts on the future of microwave backhaul systems? Are there specific applications or challenges you find most intriguing? Share your insights in the comments! 👇 #MicrowaveBackhaul #DataTransfer #5G #Telecom #TechTrends #MarketGrowth

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