Faenza is the starting point for TIM's Open RAN revolution, the Open Radio Access Network technology that makes it possible to create new-generation mobile networks, increasing performance and the flexibility of the services they offer.
Open RAN is one of the most important evolutions of the mobile access network being developed internationally. This is an initiative led by the Open RAN Alliance, the international group which has been bringing some of the leading telecommunications operators, including TIM, together since February 2018. The aim is to develop mobile infrastructures with open interfaces, thus facilitating collaboration between different actors.
Thanks to the development of Open RAN solutions, new standards are being defined that make the development of antennas and radio access network hardware and software components independent, so that different industrial players can offer solutions that are interoperable with those of other operators. This fosters the growth of a broader and more diverse industrial ecosystem and opens the door to start-ups and other innovators, reducing the time it takes to develop new services for customers and businesses.
Among the technologies at the heart of this evolution is 5G, which, together with the Cloud and Edge Computing, will make the widespread dissemination of increasingly secure and advanced digital services for people, businesses and the public administration possible. This includes services linked to new solutions for Industry 4.0, smart cities and autonomous driving.
The first city in Italy to adopt this open network model is Faenza, where TIM has set up a mobile radio network in collaboration with JMA Wireless - a leader in mobile coverage activities and in the development of Open RAN software and Microelectronics Technology (MTI).
Open RAN Alliance activities are ongoing, leading to the definition of guidelines for the technological priorities that will guide the development of standards for new mobile networks across Europe.
