Intel, Mavenir team on AI in Open RAN

 Intel and Mavenir have demonstrated enhancement of TDD mMIMO with AI beamforming models on Xeon processor hardware.

Mavenir, which has research centres in the UK and Germany worked with Intel to add machine learning and AI Open RAN cellular networks.

The AI-enabled TDD 32TRX massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) demonstration combines the Intel RAN AI model for beam management and FlexRAN reference software with Mavenir’s commercial mMIMO vDU software.

The RAN AI model is trained on 3GPP channel model datasets to optimise beam weights, direction, and number of layers to maximize throughput. The combined design improves performance in challenging radio environments such as cell edges and high-rise building scenarios and is applicable for both TDD (time) and FDD (frequency) deployments.

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“This latest collaboration between Mavenir and Intel highlights the compelling potential of AI/ML for enhancing Open RAN capabilities, promising greater network efficiency and an enhanced user experience,” said Bejoy Pankajakshan, Mavenir’s Chief Technology and Strategy Officer. “The integration of third-party innovative AI/ML algorithms with Mavenir’s leading-edge commercial RAN software suite opens many exciting possibilities ahead to usher in faster innovation and advance the 5G Open RAN ecosystem. Our leadership in the Open RAN industry is enabling transformative partnerships such as our collaboration with Intel, which are paving the way for unique solutions to optimize network capabilities for the benefit of operators and end-users.”

“Intel Xeon processors’ integrated AI acceleration, combined with the Intel vRAN AI Development Kit, enables operators to run a variety of RAN AI workloads using the CPU-based equipment they already have,” said Cristina Rodriguez, Vice President and General Manager of the Comms Solutions Group at Intel. “Our collaboration and demonstration with Mavenir highlight AI’s significant potential to enrich customers’ user experience and provide mobile operators with a competitive differentiator.”