CommAgility adds a 5G core to SmallCellCore software suite
Completing its software suite for small cells and private network development, CommAgility has released its SmallCellCORE-5G software. This adds a 5G Core (5GC) to the software suite which includes the 5G stack, PHY and reference chain. The 5G Core provides the core network functions in a 5G system, following the standards defined by 3GPP. It controls the gNodeB, or basestation, and provides the data transport, authentication and control functions required to link to external networks and the internet. This is similar to how an evolved packet core (EPC) is used within an LTE system.
Its addition creates an integrated software suite that developers can use with CommAgility’s hardware platforms. The complete software system is tested and ready to deploy, saving development time, reducing R&D costs and minimising risk, explains the company.
“With SmallCellCORE-5G, developers can now build complete specialised and private 5G networks using CommAgility signal processing hardware and software,” said Edward Young, CommAgility’s vice president and general manager. “This saves valuable time by eliminating the need to select components from multiple suppliers and combine them into an operational and tested system,” he continued.
Specialised and private networks can be developed with reduced risk by working with a proven 3GPP-compliant solution, he added.
Typical applications are 5G test beds and projects funded by the US Government’s Department of Defense, as well as satellite communications systems, transportation solutions, and industrial private network deployments.
CommAgility also offers pre-ported and validated PHY and stack software, as well as a reference chain for 5G new radio (NR) development. The portfolio of 5G NR software is designed to simplify the development of 5G small cells and private networks. Integration with available hardware accelerators and libraries is made easier by the software’s flexible architecture, and versions are available for both 5G gNodeB and UE product developers.
CommAgility also offers a range of hardware platforms for 5G projects, including reference platforms and high-performance Arm/DSP-based processing/RF cards. New products based around the Layerscape Access LA12XX programmable baseband processors from NXP Semiconductors are being developed, revealed CommAgility. The company is implementing its 5G NR software on the NXP processors, supporting both sub-6GHz bands and mmWave frequencies.
