RENEW: Programmable and Observable Massive MIMO Networks

摘要

Massive MIMO is one of the key technologies in 5G wireless broadband, capable of delivering substantial improvements in capacity of next-generation wireless networks. However, due to its inherent complexity, its operation, reconfiguration, and enhancement present significant challenges and risks. In this paper we present RENEW, a fully programmable and observable massive MIMO network. We present the architectural design for full programmability at every layer of the wireless stack, from the radio hardware, including PHY and MAC layer configurations, all the way up to the network core functionality using network function virtualization. We also present mechanisms to enable observability at every layer of the stack. These include various indicators in the radio and core access network, hence enabling effective monitoring, troubleshooting, and performance evaluation of the network at large.