Open RAN RIC tests coming to the University of Malaga

The University of Malaga has selected Keysight’s RAN Intelligent Controller Test Solutions (RICtest) to create testing models for RAN Intelligent Controllers (RIC). The Mobile & Aerospace Networks Lab (MobileNet) within the Telecommunications Institute (TELMA), will use Keysight’s RICtest to develop testing models for advanced network intelligence management functions in both the near-real-time RIC and non-real-time RIC.

As more operators move to Open RAN architectures, test and validation is emerging as a key battleground in efforts to accelerate uptake and deployments of the technology. With many new entrants from both the operator and vendor community alike lacking the resources to conduct these tests in house, there is growing demand for testing institutions to fill the gap.  The extra complexity of working in a multi vendor environment also means these labs need to work closely with industry and standards bodies like the Telecom Infra Project and the O-RAN ALLIANCE.

This is especially true for the RIC, given the vital functions it performs to intelligently manage the RAN. RICs are composed of two components: the near-real-time RIC for low-latency functionalities and the xApps it hosts, and the non-real-time RIC for less time-sensitive operations and rApps. To drive network innovation and ensure interoperability, performance, and validation, testing RICs and their apps is essential.

Keysight’s RICtest solution promises to faithfully emulate all E2 node types standardized by the O-RAN ALLIANCE. This facilitates the comprehensive testing of RIC functionalities at any scale while allowing for experimentation in both open-loop and closed-loop scenarios according to a company statement. Additionally, it supports modelled measurements to test the AI and ML processing of xApps and rApps. MobileNet is using these functionalities to successfully define a crucial foundation for rigorous testing and training of RIC xApps and rApps implementing advanced AI/ML algorithms.

This latest partnership enhances Malaga’s reputation as an important European hub for Open RAN. Vodafone hosts Spain’s largest Open RAN R&D Lab in the city and has partnered with Intel and the University of Malaga on a number of projects since 2022. Sergio Fortes, Associate Professor, Telecoms+AI/ML Researcher for MobileNet / University of Málaga, said: “MobileNet continues to demonstrate its key position in 5G / 6G and Open RAN R&D. The RICtest solution complements the extensive set of testbeds and network infrastructure of the MobileNet team (including complete end-to-end 5G, vRAN, and Open RAN networks), which are crucial for supporting cutting-edge R&D activities, always in close collaboration with the private sector.”