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Radio Unit

The Radio Unit (RU) is the component responsible for handling the radio frequency (RF) functions in the O-RAN architecture. It operates at the edge of the RAN and directly interfaces with user equipment (UE) over the air interface.

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Key Responsibilities​

  • RF Transmission and Reception: Converts digital baseband signals from the Distributed Unit (O-DU) into analog RF signals for over-the-air transmission, and vice versa.
  • Beamforming and Filtering: Performs antenna-related processing, including beamforming for advanced MIMO configurations.
  • Synchronization: Maintains timing accuracy required for 5G and other advanced features.

Connectivity​

  • Connects to the O-DU via the fronthaul interface (commonly based on eCPRI).
  • Works under strict latency constraints to ensure real-time performance.

Deployment Context​

  • Typically installed near antennas on towers or rooftops to minimize signal loss.
  • Can be implemented as open hardware in compliance with O-RAN standards, supporting interoperability across vendors.