IIITB COMET Foundation Unveils Revolutionary ORAN Base Station Solution for Enhanced Connectivity in Remote Areas

Bangalore: A groundbreaking Open Radio Access Network (ORAN) base station solution has been developed by the IIITB COMET Foundation (COMET), based in Bengaluru, aimed at providing high-speed and reliable connectivity in previously unconnected and remote areas. The innovative ORAN base station is designed to be both cost-effective and energy-efficient, catering to the growing demand for connectivity in far-flung regions.

The best-in-class ORAN base station solution, currently in development for commercialization, focuses on creating spectral and energy-efficient wireless communication technology for 5G and 5G-Advanced radio networks. ORAN base stations are crucial components of next-generation telecommunications infrastructure, offering a disaggregated approach to software and hardware components. This approach significantly reduces network cost and complexity, making it economically viable to extend internet services to remote areas.

COMET, recognized as one of the 25 Technology Innovation Hubs (TIH) established under the National Mission for Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has emerged as a key player in ORAN development. Collaborating with five leading academic institutes, including IIIT Bangalore, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Bhilai, IIT Roorkee, and IIIT-Naya Raipur, COMET is at the forefront of ORAN innovation.

Led by Dr. Kiran Kuchi, a Professor at IIT Hyderabad, the ORAN base station radio unit development introduces revolutionary technology by harnessing multiple antennas on cell towers. This breakthrough promises not only to enhance cell coverage but also to boost capacity by an impressive 3-fold compared to existing 4G networks, optimizing spectrum utilization.

Prof. Debabrata Das, Director of IIIT Bangalore and Chairman of the Board of IIITB COMET Foundation, highlighted COMET’s commitment to steering ORAN innovation and development. He emphasized the foundation’s dedication to transforming cellular networks, fostering collaboration, and contributing to India’s self-reliance in advanced communication systems.

With 6G expected to launch commercially by 2030, India is actively participating in exploring emerging standards, particularly in the area of Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS). These efforts align with India’s vision of becoming a key player in the global telecom landscape, setting standards for upcoming 6G, and reinforcing the nation’s self-reliance in advanced communication systems.

COMET’s endeavors in innovation, collaboration, and skill development signify a crucial step toward establishing India as a key player in the global telecom landscape. This initiative aligns with the vision of Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi ji for a digital India where access to information knows no barriers. The foundation’s commitment to advancing communication systems reflects its dedication to realizing a technologically empowered and self-sufficient India.