5G • RAN
MR-DC
Multi-RAT Dual Connectivity
Architectural framework allowing a UE to simultaneously transmit and receive using LTE and NR radio technologies.
Technical Explanation
Multi-RAT Dual Connectivity encompasses all dual connectivity variants between E-UTRA and NR: EN-DC (Option 3), NE-DC (Option 4), NGEN-DC (Option 7), and pure NR-DC (dual 5G nodes). It pools spectrum from both generations, accelerating 5G rollouts by reusing existing 4G infrastructure for control plane anchoring.
Key Functions
- Enables simultaneous multi-carrier transmission across 4G LTE and 5G NR
- Encompasses deployment options EN-DC, NE-DC, NGEN-DC, and NR-DC
- Boosts user throughput while preserving reliable 4G macro coverage
Specifications
3GPP TS 38.300
Interfaces
UuXnX2
Related 5G Concepts
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