Exploring 5G with open source solutions : Functional testbed and user equipment evaluation

Abstract

This work presents the successful implementation of a functional 5G testbed based on the open-source project srsRAN. The network was deployed in Standalone (SA) mode, integrating an operational Open5GS core and a working gNB, enabling full 5G connectivity. The gNB’s radio interface was implemented using Software-Defined Radio (SDR) hardware, ensuring flexibility and reconfigurability of the RF components. Connections were established with multiple user equipment (UE) devices. The testbed successfully connected to a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) device using a programmable physical SIM, allowing stable operation and real traffic exchange. A Sixfab 5G HAT, based on a Qualcomm modem, was also acquired and configured to validate connectivity from typical IoT platforms. Additionally, one of the UEs was implemented using SDR-based hardware, demonstrating the potential of open and flexible radio solutions for both infrastructure and user-side components.