This document summarizes operator plans for densifying mobile networks through 2028. It finds that both massive MIMO and small cells will be needed to handle increasing data traffic. Specifically:
- Both macro cell upgrades using massive MIMO and more localized small cells will be required to boost capacity as data use grows exponentially.
- Operators plan to greatly increase cell sites and antennas at all layers, with small cells growing even faster than traditional macro cells.
- Creating an integrated "HetSNet" combining macro, small cell, and WiFi layers will allow higher overall densities while managing interference.
- Key challenges include balancing capacity gains with rising costs, managing increasingly complex networks, and ensuring backhaul can
3. Methodology
Top 40 cellco
groups
Number and
profile of cell sites
Data
requirements,
location, business
model, spectrum,
regulatory
Cell sites required
to be added or
upgraded
Equipment and
software deployed
2013-2018 + capex
Demand driven forecast
Primary and secondary data + modelling for each operator
Additional detailed survey
Vendor input on shipments and expectations
Forecasts by region, technology, equipment type, mode, spectrum etc
6. Densification: two layers
Massive MIMO
Large antenna arrays
Advanced beamforming for coverage and mobility
Extend performance and life of macro BTS
Array gain + little interference
Small Cells
Low power, low cost highly localized access points
Capacity and coverage, less mobility
Higher cell density smaller path losses
6
12. Enablers of density
Maravedis-Rethink 2014
Next gen SON
True plug and play
Next gen interference
management, eICIC
Flexible cells
Dynamic coordination
pCell
Cognitive radio
Ad hoc viral networks
Opportunistic cells
Multiflow
Indoor out, 4G homespots
WiFi and WiGig
Partners eg utilities