We met with Mohit Sethi, Head of Wireless Software Development at Keysight to talk about their involvement in the DONE project.
Could you tell us a bit about your background and the work that Keysight does?
Of course, my name is Mohit Sethi and I lead Wireless Software Development at Keysight Technologies, focusing on network emulation solutions.
I also manage our involvement in the DONE Project, serving as the first point of contact.
Keysight Technologies is a test and measurement equipment company headquartered in the United States, with offices in Fleet, Hampshire and Edinburgh UK among other locations.
We provide complete solutions that combine hardware and software to advance telecommunications technology, including innovations like Open RAN (Open Radio Access Network).
How did Keysight become involved in the DONE Project?
Our involvement began through Vodafone, one of our key customers and a primary partner in a previous Dorset Council lead connectivity project.
Vodafone recommended us as a test and measurement partner due to our expertise in creating network simulations.
The collaboration was a natural fit, as the project required sophisticated tools to simulate and validate the network components developed by other partners.
What is Keysight’s role in the DONE Project?
We’re responsible for building a “test bed” or digital twin for the network.
A controlled, simulated environment where project partners can test and refine their innovations.
By emulating the Open RAN infrastructure, we enable the team to verify the performance, quality, and energy efficiency of their developments before deploying them in the real world.
Can you explain the concept of Open RAN and its significance for the project?
Open RAN is about creating open, modular network infrastructures where components from different manufacturers can work together seamlessly.
Historically, large vendors have dominated this space, providing end-to-end solutions.
Open RAN breaks down these silos, fostering competition and innovation.
Within the DONE Project, we aim to demonstrate how Open RAN can be implemented effectively, benefiting rural connectivity with greater flexibility and cost efficiency.
How does Keysight contribute to environmental sustainability in this project?
Our digital twin allows partners to test and optimise their network designs in a controlled environment, minimising the need for physical prototypes and reducing waste.
Additionally, we’ll measure the energy consumption of various network components, helping the team identify energy-efficient solutions.
Importantly, once the project ends, the equipment will remain in use, as ownership will transfer to Dorset Council to avoid unnecessary waste.
What are the main challenges Keysight anticipates in the project?
One challenge is integrating the test bed components from various partners, which we’re doing for the first time in this way. Ensuring compatibility and functionality is critical.
Another challenge lies in demonstrating measurable improvements in energy efficiency—this requires robust testing and validation against strict performance indicators.
Lastly, delivering solutions tailored to the unique challenges of rural connectivity, such as sparse infrastructure and low commercial returns for operators, remains a complex task.
What impact do you hope the DONE Project will have?
We hope the project will demonstrate the potential of Open RAN and digital twin technologies in improving rural connectivity.
By validating energy-efficient, cost-effective solutions, we aim to lay the groundwork for more inclusive and sustainable networks.
Has Keysight worked on rural connectivity projects before?
While we have extensive global experience in wireless technology, this is our first project focusing specifically on rural connectivity in the UK. We’re excited to apply our expertise in a way that directly benefits underserved communities.
What does Keysight hope to gain from this collaboration?
This project allows us to explore new applications for our technologies and deepen our engagement with government-led initiatives in the UK. It’s an opportunity to drive advancements in Open RAN while building relationships that could lead to future collaborations.
Is Keysight planning to pursue similar projects in the future?
Yes, we’re already engaged in other UK Government-backed projects, and we hope to continue contributing to initiatives that push the boundaries of telecommunications innovation.