Digitized RF-over-fiber as a cost-effective and energy-efficient backhaul option for wireless communications

摘要

Digitized RF-over-fiber technique based on bandpass sampling theory is studied as an alternative of analog radio-over-fiber to deliver wireless signals, taking advantage of digital optical link and realizing simpler base station architecture. In this paper, we present an overview of our recent research on digitized radio-over-fiber (RoF) technique, including discussions on the designing issues and possible solutions, proof-of-concept demonstrations and experimental results. Then, we examine the energy efficiency of the digitized RoF technique using a generic base station (BS) power model and compare with conventional BS designs. Based on the estimated energy consumption per square meter, digitized RoF technique has advantage for larger cell size.