O-RAN R1 Interface

Here is a brief explanation of the O-RAN R1 Interface:

O-RAN stands for Open Radio Access Network. It is an industry standard that defines open and interoperable interfaces for 5G RANs (Radio Access Networks).

The R1 interface is one of the key interfaces defined by O-RAN. It connects the O-RU (O-RAN Radio Unit) and the O-DU (O-RAN Distributed Unit).

The main functions of the R1 interface are:

• Transport of user plane data between O-RU and O-DU via Ethernet fronthaul.
  This includes downlink and uplink user data.
• Transport of control and management plane information between O-RU and O-DU. This includes control signaling, synchronization, and performance measurements.
• Configuration and control of the O-RU by the O-DU. The O-DU can configure parameters like frequency bands, transmission power, etc.
• Performance monitoring of O-RU by O-DU. The O-RU regularly sends KPIs and measurements that allow the O-DU to monitor and manage the RU.

Some key properties of the R1 interface are:

• It uses Ethernet as the transport mechanism.
• It supports functional split option 7-2x between O-RU and O-DU.
• It provides open interfaces with standard models for configuration, control,
  performance monitoring etc.

In summary, the R1 interface enables open and interoperable connectivity between the radio unit and distributed unit in an O-RAN architecture. It transports user data, control signaling, and facilitates management of the RU by the DU.