5G transport and broadband access networks: The need for new technologies and standards

In addition to new radio technologies, end-to-end transport networks will play a vital role in future 5G (and beyond) networks. In particular, access transport networks connecting radio access with core networks are of critical importance. They should be able to support massive connectivity, super high data rates, and real time services in a ubiquitous environment. To attain these targets, transport networks should be constructed on the basis of a variety of technologies and methods, depending on application scenarios, geographical areas, and deployment models. In this paper, we present several technologies, including analog radioover-fiber transmission, intermediate-frequency-over-fiber technology, radio-on-radio transmission, and the convergence of fiber and millimeter-wave systems, that can facilitate building such effective transport networks in many use cases. For each technology, we present the system concept, possible application cases, and some demonstration results. We also discuss potential standardization and development directions so that the proposed technologies can be widely used.