About the project

By deploying an open source based 5G-A vRAN R&D platform driven by advanced AI/ML-based network control, we aim to validate next-generation intelligent wireless solution and spread the research foundation in RAN ecosystem.

The 5G-A vRAN Platform Project is a collaborative endeavor among universities, manufacturers, and telecom operators aimed at constructing an open source based O-RAN testbed. Its primary goals include verifying interoperability across heterogeneous O-RAN components namely RUs, DUs, CUs, and the core network and developing a next-generation RIC to enhance O-RAN network performance through advanced algorithms. In addition, the project focuses on identifying potential standardization items emerging from this research, thereby contributing to both domestic and international standardization efforts.

The 5G-A vRAN Platform Project builds on the foundations of established collaboration between academia and industry, drawing on diverse experiences from previous O-RAN research projects, PoCs, and system development. These collective achievements serve as the basis for strengthening innovation in O-RAN technologies and fostering an open, software-driven network ecosystem.

WHAT

Establish open-source–based vRAN integrated testbed

Deploy 5G SA end-to-end testbed based on OpenAirInterface/NVIDIA (4.7GHz, Yonsei 5G-CN)
Verify interoperability and compatibility among open-source RU, DU, CU, and core network
Validate integrated intelligent control with DU/CU using RIC technology

Implement O-DU and develop acceleration technologies

Design O-DU High-PHY block and develop ML-based resource allocation and MIMO performance optimization
Verify acceleration technologies between the vDU and RU/core network

Develop RIC(Radio Intelligent Controller) for ensuring and enhancing Open RAN performance

Develop AI/ML-based RIC for efficient management and control of network and computing resources
Develop commercially available xApps/rApps based on standardized protocols and APIs
Research on intelligent network control and efficient radio resource allocation

Standardize 5G vRAN research platform project and promote R&D results

Promote domestic standardization of O-RAN Alliance technical specifications
Support Open RAN Industry Alliance(ORIA) activities
Disseminate research outcomes and promote for propagation of R&D achievements

WHY

Platform to verify network optimization technologies for wired/wireless operations

Provide test environment for verifying compatibility in case of developing new algorithms and protocols, and deriving end-to-end test performance
Provide emulation environment to minimize the human and material costs in the middle of integrating base station equipment from various manufacturers

Expand standards and application ecosystems for Open RAN

Promote domestic standards and influence international standardization bodies
Pre-emptive discovery of use cases based on intelligent technology associated with various industrial domains

HOW

Validate 5G testbed performance using commercial devices

Compare 5G network communication performance by connecting commercial devices
Evaluate performance against commercial RAN in terms of Flexibility, Openness, Accuracy, Real-Time capability, and Computing power

Validate the performance of intelligent network control technologies based on diverse use cases

Integrate xApps/rApps with testbed to verify communication resource management and intelligent robot control
Confirm whether the O-CU is intelligently controlled through xAPP integration with testbed