Report
The Dorset Open Networks Ecosystem (DONE) project undertook R&D across two strands of Open Radio Access Network (ORAN) enablement - RAN intelligent controller (RIC) applications plus processors and RAN/Radio Frequency (RF) hardware.
The aim of the project was to further define the blueprint for rural connectivity by advancing development of open and interoperable radio access networks. The project examined the use of technology alternatives to standard network equipment and what power consumption savings this could yield. This may help to make the roll out of telecommunications infrastructure in rural and hard to reach areas cheaper, faster and more environmentally friendly. The project’s innovative research and development (R&D) was driven by real-world requirements from operators, X-Net (Services) and the Ministry of Defence.
This work underlined the project’s commitment to regional growth, and its contribution to growing high-tech skills and job opportunities in areas of under-investment, like Dorset, which has led to lower-than-average productivity. It also grew the UK’s skills base in telecoms and cyber security, with a specific niche in national security, law enforcement and defence use-cases.
