Advanced Info Service Public Company Limited (AIS), Thailand’s leading telecommunications operator, in collaboration with ZTE Corporation, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in the world of 5G technology. They have successfully conducted the world’s first dynamic RIS (Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface) trial in a mmWave network. This innovative trial demonstrates the immense potential of dynamic RIS technology to revolutionize 5G networks by enhancing coverage, performance, and sustainability.
Dynamic RIS: Transforming 5G Connectivity
Dynamic RIS, or Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface, represents a paradigm shift in the realm of multi-antenna technology. This cutting-edge technology leverages electromagnetic metamaterials to intelligently manipulate and redirect base station signals. What sets dynamic RIS apart is its ability to extend the coverage of base stations, enhance signal quality, all while maintaining cost-effectiveness and minimizing carbon emissions.
ZTE’s Dynamic RIS Advancements
In this collaborative endeavor, ZTE has taken dynamic RIS technology to new heights by incorporating dynamic functionality for beam sweeping and user tracking. This dynamic feature augments base station coverage, ensuring seamless connectivity for users on the move. The result is a more robust and flexible 5G network infrastructure.
Impressive Performance Results
The dynamic RIS technology was put to the test in AIS’s millimeter-wave network, boasting a 400 MHz bandwidth. The implementation of dynamic RIS technology yielded remarkable results, with millimeter-wave signal coverage vastly improved. Users experienced consistent peak downlink rates exceeding 1.6 Gbps and uplink peak rates surpassing 260 Mbps, even within a spacious office room spanning over 400 square meters.
This remarkable performance showcases dynamic RIS’s ability to achieve more than three times the efficiency of conventional scenarios without RIS, especially in obstructed environments.
Millimeter-Wave’s Crucial Role in 5G
Millimeter-wave frequencies play a pivotal role in 5G networks, offering substantial bandwidth and capacity. However, they face challenges related to long-distance transmission and penetrating obstacles. Dynamic RIS technology effectively addresses these challenges by extending coverage range and significantly enhancing transmission speeds.
AIS’s Commitment to Technological Advancement
AIS, as Thailand’s foremost mobile network operator, is deeply committed to advancing communication technology and promoting the widespread adoption of 5G networks. The collaboration with ZTE has provided AIS with a platform to explore the transformative potential of RIS technology in mmWave communications, resulting in groundbreaking achievements. AIS envisions this technology as a catalyst for ushering in the 5G-A era, promising users unparalleled communication experiences.
Pioneering a 5G Revolution
The successful dynamic RIS trial in a mmWave network, achieved through the collaboration between AIS and ZTE, marks a significant leap forward in 5G technology. This milestone not only enhances network coverage and speed but also opens doors to innovative applications across various industries. Dynamic RIS has the potential to reshape the future of 5G, making it more accessible, efficient, and sustainable for users worldwide. As technology continues to advance, AIS and ZTE are at the forefront, driving the evolution of 5G connectivity.
