Chapter 5
Backhaul Transport Technologies
Mobile backhaul (MBH) is a transport network connecting mobile base stations to radio network controllers and its gateways and servers. Its building blocks are often the same as in fixed access and transport networks, especially in the backbone and aggregation tiers. Also in the access tier similar systems and equipment as in fixed access are used, when they suit the backhaul requirements. Convergence of fixed and mobile networks is a reality in backhaul. Typically wire-line MBH access uses equipment developed in the first place for fixed access and adapted for MBH use. In wireless access, i.e. in microwave radio solutions, the mobile backhaul is, however, the main market and is thus driving MWR developments – this means that MWR solutions are often genuinely made for MBH use and need less adaptations.
In this chapter we first look at some generic characteristics of transport systems and networks, mainly for the benefit of radio network specialists. Then we discuss typical systems used in MBH networks, starting from wireless access, and continuing with wire-line access systems (both copper line and optical systems), and then, briefly, systems used in upper tiers of MBH networks. The chapter is rounded off by considering other types of building blocks for MBH solutions, namely leased line and other solutions based on services provided by another (telecom) operator and shared with other users. ...
