Solution Overview
The FTTA solution (Fiber-to-the-Antenna) using CPRI cables provides a structured optical connection between baseband units (BBUs) and remote radio units (RRUs) in mobile networks. Designed for cellular operators, tower infrastructure providers, and system integrators, this solution addresses the demand for high-capacity, low-latency fronthaul links in 4G LTE and 5G deployments.
In modern mobile networks, signal performance and deployment efficiency are constrained by traditional copper or hybrid cabling. CPRI cables—including non-waterproof types and waterproof variants ( (FullAXS, NSN, PDLC, ODC, FPM) —enable direct optical connections to RRUs, reducing insertion loss and simplifying tower cabling. When coordinated with optical patch panels at the base station, the solution enables standardized fronthaul deployment, simplifies maintenance, and supports scalable network expansion, reducing civil work and enhancing overall uptime.
This solution is critical for high-density urban sites, suburban macrocells, and industrial campus deployments, providing operators with predictable network performance and easier future expansions.
Industry Challenges
1. Deployment Complexity – Connecting multiple RRUs with different interfaces can require extensive cabling, complicated routing, and tower modifications.
2. Bandwidth Limitations – Legacy copper or hybrid links struggle to support high-throughput 5G CPRI signals.
3. Limited Expandability – Adding or upgrading RRUs often involves major recabling or new ducting.
4. Maintenance and Fault Isolation – Troubleshooting fronthaul links is difficult without standardized optical pathways.
5. Environmental Constraints – Outdoor tower conditions demand cables and connectors resistant to UV, temperature swings, and mechanical stress.
Solution Architecture & Technical Approach
The FTTA solution leverages a modular CPRI cable network connecting BBUs to RRUs:
● Direct Optical Fronthaul – CPRI drop cables link each RRU directly to the base station, ensuring low latency and minimal signal degradation.
● Standardized Termination – optical patch panels at the base station simplify cable management, support easy patching, and enable future network expansion.
● Flexible Deployment – Waterproof and non-waterproof connector options accommodate rooftop, pole, and indoor installations, enabling rapid deployment in diverse environments.
● Scalable Topology – Additional RRUs can be integrated without major recabling, supporting network densification and small-cell deployment.
● Robust Design – Cables and connectors are selected for environmental resilience, ensuring reliable operation in harsh outdoor conditions.
This architecture resolves the challenges of complex installation, limited bandwidth, and maintainability while supporting future network growth.
Key Features & Advantages
1. CPRI Drop Cable Connectivity – Ensures low-loss, high-speed fronthaul for 4G and 5G RRUs.
2. Waterproof and Non-Waterproof Options – FullAXS, NSN, PDLC, ODC, FPM variants accommodate diverse tower and environmental conditions.
3. Scalable Deployment – Supports additional RRUs and small cells without major redesign.
4. Low-Latency Fronthaul – Optimized optical paths maintain high network performance.
5. Standardized Installation Practices – Reduce deployment time and improve operational consistency across sites.
Applications & Use Scenarios
● Urban 5G Fronthaul – High-density CPRI drop cable links connecting multiple RRUs in city center towers.
● Suburban Macrocell Expansion – Long-span drop cables supporting LTE/5G coverage with minimal civil work.
● Industrial Campus Networks – Fiber-to-RRU deployments for private wireless networks in manufacturing, logistics, or energy facilities.
● Small Cell Integration – CPRI drop cables connecting rooftop or pole-mounted small cells for capacity densification.
● Remote Rural Access – Reliable optical fronthaul links over long distances to extend mobile coverage.
Related Product Categories
● CPRI cables (Including FullAXS, NSN, PDLC, ODC, FPM waterproof housing type)
● Fiber optical patch panels
● Pre-terminated fiber assemblies
● Fiber optic enclosures
Why This Solution Matters
Using CPRI cables as the core of the FTTA solution enables operators to deploy high-performance, low-latency mobile fronthaul networks efficiently. Modular architecture, standardized termination, and resilient components simplify installation, support future network expansion, and reduce operational challenges in urban, suburban, and industrial environments.
