[Bangkok, Thailand, October 25, 2022] Huawei introduced the RuralLink solution at the Global Mobile Broadband Forum 2022 (MBBF2022). By innovating at the site level, this solution enables green sites, site simplification and easy evolution. This allows operators to build mobile networks that enable positive business cycles in rural areas while connecting those who are not yet connected.
Mobile Internet is becoming more accessible to people and devices, signaling the arrival of a fully connected, intelligent world. In this context, equal access to mobile connectivity for all has become the cornerstone of economic growth. Yet there are still 450 million people who are not connected to cellphone networks, most of whom live in rural areas that lack stable electricity supply and good transport connections.
Huawei’s RuralLink solution uses unique innovative technologies to solve the difficulties associated with communication. In areas where fiber is difficult and expensive to deploy, RuralLink’s unique microwave fronthaul capabilities use microwave as a fiber replacement to extend far-flung RRUs, reducing network construction costs. By sharing BBU with an existing macro site, RuralLink does not require the deployment of a BBU, which helps reduce site power consumption. Since a site can operate with as little as four to five solar panels, RuralLink can also be easily adapted to areas that lack stable grid power. The solution features a simplified design that allows all equipment to be pole mounted and no fencing or concrete structures are required for field deployment. Therefore, site construction is so easy that it can be completed in just three days. RuralLink supports 2G to 5G services, laying the foundation for upgrading the network experience.
RuralLink has already been deployed in rural areas by China Unicom Inner Mongolia. This operator has seen a significant improvement in the proportion of areas with good coverage and a notable increase in traffic levels and average speeds perceived by the user. The provision of RuralLink website not only meets the communication needs of local people, but also lays a solid foundation for the development of local e-commerce, tourism and intelligent agriculture.
RuralLink provided by China Unicom Inner Mongolia
Aaron Jiang, President of Huawei Wireless SingleRAN Product Line, emphasized the importance of RuralLink: “Rural areas have tremendous demand for mobile communications. Huawei is committed to providing leading coverage solutions for rural areas. With green sites, site simplification and easy evolution, RuralLink helps operators bring mobile connectivity to rural areas and extend the benefits of digital connectivity to everyone.”
The Global Mobile Broadband Forum 2022 is hosted by Huawei together with its industry partners GSMA and GTI. This annual forum gathers mobile network operators, vertical industry leaders and ecosystem partners from around the world to discuss how 5G can become a commercial success, as well as other important industry topics such as green development, intelligence and 5G development. For more information, visit: https://www.huawei.com/en/events/mbbf2022
