EXFO today said it added new features to Ethernet/optical FTB-700G Series and FTB-800NetBlazer Series to offer better common public radio interface (CPRI) protocol testing solution to field engineers.
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The main benefits to field technicians include the capability to install and maintain fronthaul networks by testing connectivity and data integrity between the remote radio head (RRH) and baseband unit (BBU) in new fiber-fed cell towers.
The other benefit is the reduced Opex and maintenance cost. This is because the new features will ensure – especially the enhanced CPRI functionality – will reduce the need for unnecessary tower climbs.
Since CPRI runs between the BBU and RRH which digitizes incoming radio frequency signal over fiber, there’s no need for the field engineers to keep the base station directly adjacent to the antenna on rooftops or any other costly, inefficient locations. They can install the base station in locations in order to ensure better management of size, climate and availability of power.
EXFO has integrated the extended CPRI functionality into its FTB-700G and FTB-800 NetBlazer Series portable field testers. Field technicians can utilize CPRI with minimum training.
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