Non-Terrestrial Network (Satellite) and 5G: Overview, Architecture, Multi-Connectivity

Course details

In this course designed for telecom professionals, Itelcotech founder Rahul Kaundal highlights the integration of 5G and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN). Explore the fundamentals of satellite communications and the role of 3GPP in standardizing NTN. Delve into the core architecture of 5G, from the Radio Access Network (RAN) to the 5G Core, and learn about the unique challenges and solutions for converging terrestrial and satellite systems. Gain practical insight into how standard 5G procedures are specially adapted for satellite links. Plus, learn about deployment models, payload architectures, and real-world use cases that define the future of seamless global connectivity. This course offers you a comprehensive understanding of how 5G and NTN work together to create faster, smarter, and truly ubiquitous networks, unlocking new possibilities for global communication.

Learning objectives
Explain the fundamentals of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), 3GPP standardization, and satellite orbital mechanics.
Compare terrestrial 5G architecture with NTN-specific adaptations to overcome propagation and latency challenges.
Analyze 5G-NTN protocol stack adaptations, including RACH, HARQ, and mobility procedures for satellite links.
Evaluate TN-NTN integration architectures and multi-connectivity models for transparent and regenerative payloads.
Assess NTN deployment scenarios, spectrum considerations, and their application in 5G use cases.

Concepts

Introduction

Introduction

NTN and Satellite Fundamentals

Introduction to Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN)
3GPP and global standards for NTN
Fundamentals of satellite communication architectures
Satellite platforms and orbital configurations
Selecting optimal orbit for NTN services
NTN spectrum and frequency allocation

5G - Terrestrial Networks Fundamentals

Evolution of telecom networks - 2G to 5G
Fundamentals of 5G technology
5G design principles and key capabilities
5G spectrum

5G - Terrestrial Networks Architecture

Overview of terrestrial 5G network components
Architecture of terrestrial telecom networks
Radio Access Network (RAN) architecture
5G New Radio (NR) architecture
Transport network architecture
5G Core (5GC) network architecture

Satellite Telecom Convergence and Propagation

NTN for IoT - Beyond broadband connectivity
Convergence of telecom and satellite systems
From proprietary systems to standardized 5G-NTN
Radio propagation in NTN - Path loss
Delay, latency, and propagation characteristics in NTN
Timing Advance - Challenges and solutions in NTN

NTN Architecture and Deployment

NTN deployment models and scenarios
Transparent payload architecture
Regenerative payload architecture
Regenerative payload with disaggregated RAN

NTN and 5G Radio Key Concepts

5G spectrum bands and ranges
NTN spectrum bands and ranges
Understanding 5G Synchronization Signal Block (SSB)
NTN SSB - Design adaptations for satellite-based 5G
5G channel bandwidth
5G ACLR - Spectrum emission requirements and compliance
NTN ACLR - Emission constraints and satellite-specific considerations
Doppler effect

5G and NTN Protocols

Overview of the 5G protocol stack
5G NR downlink physical signals and channels
5G NR initial access and synchronization procedures
5G NR Random Access Procedure
NTN RACH adaptations for long RTT
PDCCH - The 5G control channel
PDCCH simulation and analysis
PDSCH - The 5G downlink data channel
PDSCH simulation and analysis
PUCCH - Uplink control channel
PUSCH - Uplink shared channel
Uplink channel simulation (PUCCH and PUSCH)
5G NR Layer-2 data flow overview
RLC layer explained - 5G
RLC in NTN - Timers, constraints, adaptation strategies
MAC layer explained - 5G
MAC in NTN - DRX behavior and HARQ adaptations for long RTT
PDCP Layer explained
PDCP in NTN - Key challenges and solutions
SDAP and QoS flow management
RRC Layer explained
RRC states - Idle, connected, and inactive modes
Control and user plane protocols in NTN
End-to-end protocol flow to the 5G core in NTN

NTN and 5G Mobility

5G NR cell selection and reselection procedures
NTN idle mode mobility enhancements
5G NR handover procedures and mobility management
NTN - Connected mode mobility enhancements

NTN and 5G Multi-Connectivity

TN NTN integration architecture - Transparent payload
TN NTN multi-connectivity - Regenerative payload
TN NTN integration architecture - Regenerative payload
TN NTN multi-connectivity - Transparent payload

NTN and 5G Use Cases

NTN use cases and 5G application scenarios

Conclusion

Conclusion