Time-Sensitive Networking over 5G: Experimental Evaluation of a Hybrid 5G and TSN System with IEEE 802.1Qbv Traffic

TL;DR

This paper evaluates the integration of Time-sensitive Networking (TSN) with 5G systems through experimental testing, highlighting how parameters influence deterministic performance for industrial applications.

Contribution

It provides an experimental assessment of hybrid 5G and TSN systems using real devices, focusing on over-the-air TSN traffic and system parameter impacts.

Findings

802.1Qbv parameters significantly affect performance

5G system capabilities influence end-to-end determinism

Results inform design of 5G/TSN integration models

Abstract

Underpinned by the IEEE 802.1 standards, Time-sensitive networking (TSN) empowers standard Ethernet to handle stringent real-time requirements of industrial networking. TSN and private 5G will co-exist in industrial systems; hence, converged operation of the two is crucial to achieving end-to-end deterministic performance. This work conducts a testbed-based evaluation of a hybrid 5G and TSN system with over-the-air transmission of scheduled real-time TSN traffic (based on IEEE 802.1Qbv standard). The main objective is to bring the dynamics of hybrid 5G and TSN deployments to spotlight. The testbed comprises off-the-shelf TSN and 5G devices and a near product-grade 5G system. The results show the impact of 802.1Qbv parameters and 5G system capabilities on end-to-end deterministic performance. The findings of this study have significance for design and optimization of 3GPP-defined bridge model (black box model) for 5G/TSN integration.