As the telecommunications industry prepares to converge Radio Access Networks (RAN) and Core networks, the need for rigorous testing in a lab environment has never been more critical. This convergence aims to position processing functions and resources closer to the user, diminishing latency and network traffic load while simultaneously boosting quality of experience. With so much to gain, commercial deployments must take every precaution to ensure that their network architecture is robust enough to cope with the complex demands of 5G traffic at scale.At Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2024, the world’s premier connectivity event, VIAVI will showcase its pre-deployment testing capabilities from RAN to Core with intelligent, automated solutions designed to maximize test investment, equip networks for future challenges and optimize them for peak performance, security and efficiency.From the LabWhen deploying any new network architecture, the transition from a lab to live environment is a critical phase, particularly as the industry shifts its focus from 5G to 5G Advanced, and eventually 6G. With emerging use cases such as autonomous driving, AR/VR and industrial IoT, the strain and demand placed on networks continue to grow. Analyzing, developing and validating network devices and functions in a lab setting ensures that each component is primed for the highest performance and reliability before being deployed in the field.VIAVI’s lab testing solutions cover a wide range of applications, including the latest developments around 5G security, Open RAN, RAN Intelligent Controllers and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN). This guarantees that network equipment is rigorously tested against specifications and performs effectively at scale, using real traffic data for the most realistic validation environment​. In addition to offering the right solutions to fit diverse test requirements, VIAVI delivers these solutions through various models including product purchase, rental, consultancy and bespoke test case creation. These offerings are part of our Test-as-a-Service (Taas) and Lab-as-a-Service (LAAS) models, catering to both small and large-scale testing needs across the entire development lifecycle.In recognition of the company’s leadership in these areas, the U.S. National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has awarded the company a grant from the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund’s first Notice of Funding Opportunity for the VIAVI Automated Lab-as-a-service for Open RAN (VALOR) which aims to expand the availability, accessibility and affordability of our solutions to the entire mobile ecosystem.To the FieldTransitioning from the lab to the field, field engineers, technicians and installers must navigate the complexities of deploying and upgrading mobile networks in real-world environments. To tackle challenges during cell site installation, maintenance and troubleshooting, field solutions need to ensure optimal network performance and reliability in dynamic field settings.Emphasizing ease of use, VIAVI tools incorporate simplified test processes, remote accessibility and automated workflows, which are crucial for time efficiency, error reduction and managing workforce constraints in the deployment of 5G networks. From fiber and x-haul testing to RF solutions, our efficient and scalable testing and verification solutions help streamline operational procedures and ensure high-quality, reliable service delivery to end-users.The deployment of 5G presents a set of challenges including interference, EMF exposure and antenna alignment.Interference: One significant challenge in network deployment is managing interference, which can occur in various forms. Passive Intermodulation (PIM) often arises on the feedline, antenna or nearby metal elements, disrupting signal quality. Furthermore, Time Division Duplex (TDD) signals in LTE and 5G networks are much more sensitive to synchronization and timing errors that add another layer of complexity, increasing the risk of interference. Additionally, the proliferation of external sources, such as new electronic devices and structures, contributes to interference in the radio access network and requires sophisticated detection and mitigation strategies.EMF Exposure: The rapid evolution and expansion of cellular networks have raised concerns about electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure. As transmitter numbers grow to accommodate new network technologies, ensuring human safety in the presence of these fields becomes essential. Our solutions are geared towards monitoring and managing EMF levels, ensuring compliance with safety standards and public health guidelines.Antenna Alignment: Precise antenna alignment is vital for optimal network performance. Proper alignment minimizes RF overlapping and coverage gaps, ensuring efficient network operation. This is particularly crucial in the context of Massive MIMO deployment, where misalignment can lead to significant data loss and retransmission issues. VIAVI ensures that service providers can fully realize the potential of RAN advancements, contributing to network efficiency and energy savings.VIAVI at MWC 2024At this year’s Mobile World Congress (MWC), VIAVI will be showcasing the most advanced RANtoCore solutions that enhance performance, resilience, coverage, and reach. For more information about the event, click here. Read our other MWC 2024 blogs on AI-driven network optimization and journey to the Dark NOC.