Multi-operator RAN Sharing

Active Sharing versus Passive Sharing, Deployment Challenges and Market Activity

Network sharing or RAN sharing allows for two or more mobile operators to share their wireless infrastructure, which is aimed at reducing their individual CAPEX and OPEX costs. Network sharing is a logical way of pooling resources for common benefit. Network sharing can occur at various levels and there could be various combinations including the base station site, radio equipment, power, cooling equipment, antenna feeder cables, antennas, tower masts, and more.

The report analyzes the cost benefits of RAN sharing, and the technological, regulatory and practical challenges of sharing base stations. It profiles the vendors that provide RAN share solutions, and lists the operators that have RAN share agreements in place.


Table of Contents

1 Figure
Executive Summary

Section 1.
INTRODUCTION
1.1. Active versus Passive Infrastructure Sharing
1.2. Elements of RAN Sharing
1.2.1. Base Station
1.2.2. Antennas/Feeders
1.2.3. Backhaul Transmission
1.2.4. RNC/Management System
1.2.5. Spectrum Sharing

Section 2.
BENEFITS & CHALLENGES
2.1. Cost Analysis of Active Share
2.1.1. CAPEX
2.1.2. OPEX
2.1.3. Overall Savings
2.2. Spectrum Coverage Obligations
2.3. Cost of Wideband Equipment
2.4. Competitive Issues and Operator Resistance
2.5. Capacity Upgrades and Scalability
2.6. Maintenance and Management Issues
2.7. Impact on Tower Operators
2.8. Regulations

Section 3.
MARKET ACTIVITY
3.1. Vendors
3.1.1. Vanu Inc.
3.1.2. Nokia Siemens Networks
3.1.3. Ericsson
3.1.4. Huawei
3.1.5. Tecore Networks
3.2. Operators
FIGURE



Tables
  • – Breakdown of OPEX for RAN Deployment
  • – RAN Sharing Operators, Worldwide

Charts
  • Total RAN Sharing Savings Potential from 2010 to 2014
  • Breakdown of CAPEX for RAN deployment
  • CAPEX Cost Savings – Passive vs. Active Sharing
  • OPEX Cost Savings – Passive vs. Active Sharing
  • Total RAN Sharing Cost Savings Potential from 2010 to 2014

Figures
  • Degrees of Infrastructure Sharing