In the pursuit of more sustainable and efficient mobile networks, "Green Antennas" have emerged as a key technological advancement. But how exactly do they differ from the conventional base station antennas we're familiar with?
In short, Green Antennas represent a technological evolution of conventional antennas, with a core focus on enhanced energy efficiency, intelligence, and performance.
The main differences can be understood across several key areas:
1. Core Design Philosophy:
Conventional Antennas are designed primarily for optimal signal coverage and capacity. The main goals are RF performance metrics like gain and beamwidth.
Green Antennas are engineered to deliver superior performance while integrating "Energy Saving" as a fundamental design goal. They align with global carbon reduction initiatives and help operators significantly reduce operational expenditures (OPEX).
2. Key Technology:
Conventional Antennas are typically passive. They radiate signals generated by the base station unit without active processing.
Green Antennas often leverage Active Antenna Systems (AAS) and Massive MIMO technology. They employ innovative techniques like "Radiation Element-Level Power Saving."
An Analogy: Imagine an antenna panel composed of hundreds of tiny bulbs (radiation elements).
A Conventional Antenna lights all bulbs at full power to cover an entire area, even if users are only in a small sector, leading to waste.
A Green Antenna intelligently senses user distribution in real-time. It powers only the specific elements directed where users are located, dynamically adjusting coverage and slashing energy consumption.
3. Energy-Saving Mechanism:
Conventional Antennas rely on the base station for power saving (e.g., shutting down carriers during low traffic). The antenna itself is passive in this process.
Green Antennas actively participate in energy conservation. Through hardware and software coordination, they enable features like:
Channel Deactivation: Turning off specific radio channels when not needed.
Symbol Shutdown: Powering down amplifiers during silent symbol periods in 5G transmissions.
Deep Dormancy: Entering a low-power state during periods of extremely low traffic.
Summary Table
Conclusion
The term "Green Antenna" does not refer to its color, but to its advanced, energy-saving design. It signifies a crucial step forward in building more sustainable and cost-effective mobile networks for the 5G era and beyond. By adopting smart, efficient technologies, Green Antennas ensure that high-speed connectivity and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.