EXFO has unveiled SkyRAN, a remote access and monitoring solution for fiber-based fronthaul networks.

The US-based test and measurement company said that SkyRAN, a monitoring solution developed in collaboration with the largest wireless carriers in North America, will provide real-time, on-demand testing and 24/7 monitoring of fiber optic networks and radio frequency (RF) spectrum.

EXFO is showcasing the SkyRAN solution at VZTUF-XII in Austin, TX.

SkyRAN combines the industry’s highest resolution RF spectrum analysis over CPRI with the most advanced fiber monitoring capabilities on the market.

SkyRAN reveals RF issues that were previously either undetectable or difficult to identify. Mobile network operators (MNOs) will have the capacity to proactively identify and resolve RF interference, PIM and fiber-related issues before they could impact subscribers.

MNOs will need visibility into their RF spectrum and fiber fronthaul networks. Telecom operators can use SkyRAN as part of their transformation into 5G, which will rely on highly dense networks resulting in an increase of RF interference sources.

“For mobile network operators, RF spectrum is one of their most valuable assets and RF interference is one of their worst enemies,” said Stephane Chabot, vice president, Test and Measurement at EXFO.

EXFO said SkyRAN generates significant Opex savings by reducing the need to travel to macro cell sites in remote locations or in high-density centralized-RAN hubs. Telecom engineers can troubleshoot from their desks or get equipped with actionable data through analytics before arriving on-site.