ZTE LTE Solution- Increasing Operator's Network Value and Profits

1  Profile on ZTE LTE

1.1  Forerunner in LTE development

As one of the first Next Generation Mobile Network (NGMN) members, ZTE actively participates in all NGMN Technical Working Group (TWG) activities. ZTE has set clear objectives for IPR reform and has been committed to improving IPR strategy.

Before LTE was put into large-scale commercial use, ZTE took the initiative in promoting extensive interoperability and field tests. In 2007, ZTE joined the LTE/SAE Trial Initiative (LSTI).

To drive the commercial use of LTE/SAE, ZTE takes active part in developing the Interoperability Development Test/Interoperability Test (IODT/IOT) plans.

ZTE has put sufficient resources into the LTE R&D programs, devoting itself to delivering custom-made and qualitative next generation network products and services. Its global R&D centers can offer customized solutions suitable for local economy and culture, helping operators enhance their network value and profits.

1.2  Unified SDR platform bringing lower TCO

Wireless networks will evolve into networks integrating several technologies. During technology convergence, multiple technologies will coexist to suit different application requirements.

To effectively address the convergence needs, ZTE started to develop common product platforms. After many years of R&D efforts, ZTE’s Software Defined Radio (SDR) base station platform, all-IP core network platform, and network Operation & Maintenance Center (OMC) platform have been developed with mature architecture, excellent performance and easy scalability, which can be successfully applied to the GSM/WCDMA/CDMA/TD-SCDMA/WiMAX/LTE product series.

To ensure smooth technology evolution and minimize Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) during the upgrade to the next generation mobile networks, ZTE launches its OneNetwork solution that consists of the unified SDR base station platform, unified all-IP core network platform, and unified OMC platform. This solution saves up to 40% on power costs by using a high efficiency power amplifier and has an almost 30% lower TCO for mobile operators that deploy a SDR solution rather than a standalone base station.

1.3  ZTE SDR series base stations at the global leading edge

According to a recent market research report “Overview of SDR Market” released by Informa Telecoms & Media, ZTE SDR series base stations are at the global leading edge in the technology and commercial fields. So far, only ZTE and another vendor’s SDR base stations can support GSM/UMTS dual mode and ZTE was the first infrastructure vendor to have launched SDR series base stations, which can help operators implement LTE with only a software upgrade (assuming that the new technology runs on the same frequency as the hardware platform).

As a leader in the SDR field, ZTE shows its competitive advantages in the aspects of both cost and technology in the evolution from 3G to LTE, which will definitely enhance its competitive capability in the WCDMA/HSPA field.

2  Conclusion

Featuring high data rates and system throughput, LTE stands in a good position to meet the requirements of next generation mobile networks. ZTE’s LTE solution can facilitate operators in upgrading existing networks, increasing their network value and profits. ZTE was one of the first vendors to launch a SDR base station that can be upgraded to LTE through a baseband add-on and a software upgrade in the purpose of lower TCO.