Vodacom South Africa has tested an integrated passive-active Massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) solution with Nokia, which the companies describe as a world first. The technology is designed to increase 4G and 5G network capacity at sites where physical or structural constraints make conventional expansion difficult.
The solution was piloted in the Western Cape and combines multiple antenna capabilities in a more compact configuration. Vodacom says this can help it make more efficient use of existing network sites while responding to growing demand for mobile data.
Vodacom expands capacity at constrained network sites
The successful on-site testing demonstrates how the technology can be deployed where limited space or existing infrastructure restricts conventional network upgrades.
The deployment is intended to improve network efficiency and performance, particularly in locations experiencing high demand for connectivity. For customers, Vodacom expects the upgrade to support a more consistent 4G and 5G experience, including smoother streaming and faster downloads.
Beverly Ngwenya, Technology Director, Vodacom South Africa: "As demand for mobile data continues to grow, we need to continuously evolve our network to deliver the quality and consistency of experience our customers expect. Innovations like this allow us to enhance our network in smarter and more efficient ways, ensuring it is ready to support customers' changing connectivity needs. Ultimately, this is about continuing to invest in the quality and resilience of our network and delivering on our purpose to connect for a better future."
Nokia partnership supports dual-band Massive MIMO
The solution supports dual-band Massive MIMO across the 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz spectrum bands. This allows Vodacom to use available spectrum more efficiently and add capacity at locations where demand is highest.
The approach is particularly relevant in high-demand urban areas, where limited physical space and existing infrastructure can make conventional network expansion more complex.
Vodacom targets more efficient network expansion
Vodacom says the deployment will form part of its continued investment in network resilience and capacity. By using existing sites more efficiently, the company aims to increase its ability to respond to changing connectivity requirements without relying solely on conventional physical expansion.
The technology forms part of Vodacom’s broader network evolution as mobile data usage grows and demand for reliable 4G and 5G connectivity increases across South Africa.
Source: https://africabusinesscommunities.com/tech-24/vodacom-expands-4g-and-5g-capacity-with-mimo/
