Improved uplink I/Q-signal forwarding for cloud-based radio access networks with millimeter wave fronthaul

Abstract

Cloud-based radio access networks, which utilize a centralized baseband unit, require additional fronthaul links as compared to conventional networks. While fiber is commonly used for these fronthaul links, millimeter wave technology offers a cost-effective alternative on the “last mile” of the network. However, millimeter wave technology has to deal with the increased attenuation of outdoor wireless channels, which poses additional challenges on the design of such links. In this work, we combine an optimized quantizer with an improved detection scheme to increase the performance of the uplink in networks utilizing millimeter wave fronthaul technology.