Executive Summary : | Optical networks are crucial in supporting the fifth-generation mobile network (5G) by connecting components like remote units, distribute units, central units, and the 5G core network. They also connect data centers for computation, storage, content generation, and routing functions. 5G represents a significant evolution in mobile networks, catering to unprecedented communication demands across three main application scenarios: enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (uRLLC), and massive machine type communications (mMTC). The sixth generation mobile network (6G) is expected to be launched around 2030, with advancements in downlink and uplink speeds, spectrum efficiency, latency, traffic density, connection density, mobility, and positioning/sensing. The advent of 5G introduces new requirements for optical networks, such as high bandwidth, low latency, accurate synchronization, and network slicing. High bandwidth is needed due to increased RF spectrum bandwidth and the utilization of massive multiple-input and multiple-output antenna systems. Network slicing is essential for meeting quality of service (Qos) for specific services while optimizing resource utilization. |