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MTN Zambia and Huawei have teamed up to create an antenna unit designed to improve network performance and energy efficiency through advanced hardware and software. According to Techtrends Zambia, the new antenna, called the Meta-Active Antenna Unit (Meta-AAU), represents the third generation of 5G active antennas, offering greater coverage and bandwidth while using less energy than traditional models.
The companies assert that the Meta-AAU addresses several challenges faced by MTN, such as limited space on towers for equipment and high operational costs, especially during deployments. It also tackles various technical issues, including the integration of large antenna arrays for signal transmission and reception, coordinated scheduling for dual bands, remote adjustments, and energy-saving sleep modes, all while ensuring a seamless 5G experience across different scenarios.
Thomas Ngoma, MTN Zambia’s chief technology officer, emphasised that this innovation is a pivotal moment in MTN Zambia’s path toward 5.5G, the next stage of 5G technology. He noted, “This collaboration is vital for MTN Zambia’s progression to 5.5G. Huawei’s dual-band AAU technology not only improves current network performance but also sets a clear direction for future 5.5G advancements, laying the groundwork for the next phase of commercial 5G rollout.”
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Robin Yu Bin, director of Huawei’s Southern Africa Multi-country Management Department, highlighted that the partnership focuses on utilising technology to enhance infrastructure. The successful implementation of this solution proves its feasibility and commercial value. Huawei will continue to apply its 5G expertise to assist MTN in developing a sustainable, intelligent network infrastructure.