The Small Cell Forum (SCF) has released an updated set of specifications intended to foster a competitive, multi-vendor ecosystem for 5G small cell hardware, software and equipment. These documents build on last year’s 5G Physical Layer API and make it easier to assemble small cells from components supplied by different vendors to address a variety of 5G use cases.
The latest release introduces two new specifications: SCF223: 5G NR FAPI P19 FrontEnd Interface Specification and SCF224: Network Monitor Mode API for Small Cells. Dr. Prabhakar Chitrapu, SCF Chair and Lead MTS at AT&T Converged Access and Device Technology, described the work as a “proud achievement.”
“The 5G-FAPI specification suite enhances and extends the existing 3G and 4G specifications that helped grow the small cell market by enabling a broad multi-vendor ecosystem,” Dr. Chitrapu said. “This suite represents a significant cooperative effort among several member companies. The APIs also embody our ongoing collaboration with other industry forums, and this release incorporates recommendations from the OpenAirInterface Software Alliance.”
Earlier, in July, the SCF published the 5G PHY API with the goal of encouraging a competitive ecosystem for 5G small cell vendors. That PHY API was developed through collaboration across the small cell community and included contributions from companies such as Intel and Qualcomm Technologies. It provided an open, interoperable interface between the physical layer and the MAC layer, enabling greater flexibility and vendor choice.
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