An Introduction to 5G

7Architecture of the 5G New Radio

This is the first of six chapters that cover the air interface of 5G. In this chapter, we will begin by introducing the air interface's protocol stack, and identify the various different streams of information that are transmitted and received. We will then introduce the architecture of the physical layer, describe how it organizes information as a function of frequency and of time, and discuss its use of multiple input multiple output (MIMO) antennas. We will also lay out a framework for data transmission and reception on the 5G air interface, which will be applicable to several of the information streams that are covered in later chapters.

There are several relevant specifications, both for this chapter and for the ones that follow. The most important is the stage 2 specification for the 5G air interface, TS 38.300 [1], while References [2–5] define the details of the air interface's physical layer. Other introductions to the air interface include References [6,7]. There are also several books containing more detailed accounts of its principles and implementation, which are listed in the Bibliography, and which will be valuable for readers who wish to take their understanding further.

7.1 Air Interface Protocol Stack

7.1.1 5G Protocol Stack

Figure 7.1 shows the simplest version of the protocol stack for the 5G air interface, from the viewpoint of the mobile [8]. The diagram assumes the use of architectural option 2, in which the mobile ...