The 5G specification work, as outlined in (3GPP) RP-160671, aimed to identify and develop the necessary technology components for new radio (NR) systems capable of utilizing spectrum bands up to 100 GHz. This study’s objective is to create an NR access technology that can address a broad spectrum of use cases, including enhanced mobile broadband, massive Machine Type Communication (MTC), critical MTC, and additional requirements highlighted during the RAN requirements study.
The objective was to establish a comprehensive technical framework that could effectively address all usage scenarios, requirements, and deployment scenarios outlined in TR38.913. This Technical Report aimed to ensure that the ITU-R IMT-2020 requirements (3GPP) R1-162152, dated April 2016, were adequately covered, while also accommodating any additional industry needs. These requirements were formulated based on a practical understanding of the feasibility in real-world situations, without violating the fundamental laws of physics. The newly developed radio access technology (RAT) was specifically designed to possess inherent forward compatibility, allowing for specification in multiple phases to meet unforeseeable future requirements. Taking inspiration from LTE’s experiences, the design aimed to overcome any rigidity, despite LTE’s proven capability to integrate new features in subsequent 3GPP releases. The New Radio study item encompassed the technical features necessary to achieve the objectives outlined in TR38.913, while also addressing highly demanding performance criteria.
- Additional functional requirements consist of:
- Seamless integration between the new RAT and LTE
- Compatibility with non-3GPP systems
- Functioning in licensed bands (paired and unpaired), as well as licensed assisted operations in unlicensed bands
- Independent operation in unlicensed bands. The primary focus is on establishing a basic physical layer signal structure for the new RAT, covering aspects such as waveform, frame structures, and channel coding schemes.