5G, 6G & O-RAN
Next-generation wireless networks for enhanced connectivity and performance
5G and emerging 6G technologies represent the future of wireless communication, offering unprecedented speeds, ultra-low latency, and massive connectivity capabilities. 6G development is driving integration between Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) and terrestrial infrastructure, enabling global coverage through satellite-terrestrial convergence. Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) architecture revolutionises traditional network infrastructure by promoting interoperability, flexibility, and innovation through open interfaces and disaggregated networks.
The evolution from 5G to 6G brings transformative capabilities including enhanced mobile broadband, massive machine-type communications, ultra-reliable low-latency communications, and Direct-to-Device (D2D) communications enabling direct satellite connectivity. O-RAN’s open architecture enables network operators to mix and match equipment from different vendors, encouraging innovation and reducing costs whilst improving network performance and functionality.
Current Market Transformation
The mobile base-station industry is experiencing its most significant transformation in decades. O-RAN initiatives have democratised the mobile base-station market, breaking down the closed ecosystem that was previously dominated by a small number of integrated vendors.
This transformation has enabled WLAN and backhaul manufacturers to enter the market but has also intensified competition as most designs now derive from standard reference platforms. Success requires differentiation through superior RF design, advanced signal processing, and innovative engineering that goes beyond standard implementations.
The Plextek advantage
- Specialised Environments
- Space-qualified design and manufacturing
- Thermal and mechanical co-design for low SWaP applications
- Radio Unit Design and Implementation
- Full spectrum radio design from Sub-6 GHz to mmWave
- RF front end optimisation
- High Efficiency Power Amplifier design for TDD and FDD systems
- Low SWaP RF front end solutions
- Femto and Small-Cell RF design
- Macro-Cell Enode-B RF design
- Optimised RF solutions for massive MIMO arrays
- Modular RF Front ends for large arrays
- Radio Unit Signal Processing Design
- Physical Layer systems architecture design and modelling
- Linearisation algorithms
- Receiver Interference management and robustness
- Hardware in the loop DSP design and validation
- Digital Pre-Distortion (DPD) algorithms and implementation
- Machine Learning approaches for linearisation and interference management
- Inter-element isolation mitigation in massive MIMO arrays
- Advanced RF & Antenna Systems
- Massive MIMO antenna systems
- Beamforming technologies
- High Isolation Antenna Structures
- mmWave and FR3 antenna design (up to 124.25 GHz)
- Multi-band RF front-end design across traditional and emerging spectrum allocations
- Sub-6 GHz optimisation
- Small cell solutions
- Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS)
- Reconfigurable intelligent surfaces
- Antenna array processing
- Testing & Validation
- O-RAN conformance testing
- 5G protocol testing
- Interoperability validation
- Performance benchmarking
- Live network validation
- EMC pre-conformance testing
- Beam-steering and Antenna Radiation Pattern assessment
What sets us apart when it comes to 5G/6G & O-RAN?
In today’s democratised O-RAN landscape where most designs derive from standard reference platforms, differentiation comes through superior RF design, advanced signal processing, and multidisciplinary integration. Our 35+ year track record in proprietary protocol design positions us to deliver the innovative RF and antenna solutions that enable competitive advantage in this transformed market.
The transition to 5G and the emerging 6G landscape, combined with O-RAN’s open architecture, represents the most significant transformation in wireless communications since the introduction of digital cellular networks. At Plextek, beyond just implementing these technologies, we want to help define how they’ll reshape industries, from enabling autonomous systems to creating the intelligent, responsive networks that will underpin our connected world.
Kevin Cobley, RF Systems Director
Why 5G, 6G & O-RAN matters
The transition to 5G and the emerging 6G landscape, combined with O-RAN’s open architecture, represents the most significant transformation in wireless communications since the introduction of digital cellular networks.
These technologies enable new applications across industries, from autonomous vehicles and smart cities to industrial IoT and more. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning within O-RAN architectures further enhances network optimisation and autonomous operations.
We can help with your challenges
Whether you’re developing next-generation wireless systems, preparing for 6G standardisation milestones approaching 2030, or integrating advanced O-RAN technologies into existing infrastructure, our multidisciplinary team can support you from initial concept through to production.
Get in touch to discuss how we can help with your 5G, 6G, or O-RAN project.
