Together we are stronger – Co-Existence of 5G Broadcast with Other Radio Technologies

Abstract

Abstract—5G Broadcast offers broadcast network operators the possibility of reaching mobile devices directly with their broadcast transmit infrastructure, without requiring additional hardware in smartphones. 5G Broadcast enables delivery of services such as linear TV, live content offload, or emergency messages to the general population while minimizing the hardware impact and the cost to the end customers. However, when introducing a new broadcast technology, the co-existence with and the migration from existing broadcast technologies is one of the most challenging efforts – also taking into account spectrum scarcity, the need to support legacy receivers, and regulatory constraints. Co-existence scenarios is a must. Secondly, in the modern world of apps and software-based service layers, there exists a huge opportunity to share service layers across transport technologies including stationary and cellular unicast delivery, providing a unified and enhanced user experience. As 5G broadcast is decoupled from a specific service layer, unique and exciting co-existence scenarios exist.

In this paper, we analyze how 5G Broadcast can be introduced and deployed in such scenarios. One aspect includes the coexistence in the same UHF channel with one of several other legacy broadcast radio technologies, including ATSC 3.0, DVB-T2 and ISDB-T. A second aspect includes the discussion how 5G Broadcast can be integrated into existing service layers, such as ATSC3.0 and DVB-I.  A third aspect is the deployment of 5G Broadcast jointly with unicast, including initial discussions on spectrum and technology requirements.