Ericsson said on Monday it has successfully completed MTN Nigeria’s first field trial of a triple-band FDD massive MIMO radio that integrates the telco’s entire 4G mid-band spectrum into a single, compact radio unit.
According to Ericsson, its AIR 3284 radio replaces multiple traditional radios with one energy-efficient system, reducing tower space, power consumption, and maintenance requirements. Ericsson also said the radio supports the dynamic configuration of capacity resources based on real-time traffic needs, focusing extra capacity only when congestion relief will have the most impact.
All of this enables MTN Nigeria to optimise its network more flexibly and intelligently, as well as lower its opex through minimized site footprint, simplified cabling and reduced energy use.
MTN Nigeria CTO Yahaya Ibrahim said the trial results indicate the AIR 3284 delivered 3.2 times the downlink and around 4 times the uplink speeds, raised user throughput by more than 50% and reduced network congestion, even during high-demand events serving millions of subscribers.
“By trialling the consolidation of our 4G mid-bands into a single, flexible solution, we have witnessed a reduction in complexity, optimization of operations, and a faster, more reliable experience – precisely when and where our customers need it,” he said in a statement. “This solution can directly address our growing capacity needs while keeping operational efficiency at the forefront.”
Majda Lahlou Kassi, VP and head of Ericsson West and Southern Africa, added that the AIR 3284 is also future-ready for 5G deployment, to include 5G standalone.
“It delivers immediate, measurable capacity where and when it is needed without compromising on network performance, reducing site complexity, lowering power consumption and allowing MTN Nigeria steer capacity in real time to match demand,” she said.
