RACH in 5G-NR

The RACH procedure in 5G networks is crucial for enabling a User Equipment (UE) to
synchronize with the gNodeB for initial uplink access or when re-synchronization is needed.
This process allows UEs to initiate communication with the network and establish timing
alignment for uplink transmission. RACH operates on the PRACH, where UEs send a RACH
preamble to request resources and initiate synchronization.

Why is RACH Necessary?

RACH is essential in 5G NR for multiple purposes:
➢ Initial Access: When a UE powers on, it uses RACH to establish a connection with the
gNB. Without RACH, the UE cannot connect to the network.
➢ Uplink Synchronization: RACH aligns the UE’s timing with the network, enabling
smooth uplink communication.

➢ Mobility Support: During handovers or beam failures, RACH allows the UE to

resynchronize with a new gNB or beam.

➢ Efficient Resource Allocation: By enabling the UE to signal its presence and request
resources, RACH helps the gNB allocate resources effectively, minimizing interference.

When is RACH Triggered?

RACH can be triggered in various scenarios within 5G NR networks:
➢ Initial Access from RRC_IDLE: When a UE initially joins the network or re-establishes a
connection.
➢ RRC Connection Re-establishment: If the UE loses connection and needs to restore its
link.
➢ Handover: During mobility events, the UE may need to switch to a new cell or beam,
requiring re-synchronization.
➢ Out-of-Sync in RRC_CONNECTED: If uplink or downlink synchronization is lost while
connected, RACH is triggered to re-sync.
➢ Beam Failure Recovery: If the current beam weakens due to signal loss or blockage,
RACH enables the UE to connect to a new beam on the gNB.
➢ Transition from RRC_INACTIVE: When the UE moves from an inactive state to an active
connection, it requires re-synchronization with the gNB.

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 ➢ Time Alignment for SCell Addition: For carrier aggregation, RACH establishes timing
alignment when adding a Secondary Cell (SCell).
➢ Request for Other System Information (SI): When the UE requires additional system
information beyond the initial connection setup.

Types of RACH Procedures in 5G Networks

In 5G, the Random-Access Channel (RACH) procedure is essential for establishing
communication between a User Equipment (UE) and the network, primarily for initial
synchronization and network access. There are two main types of RACH procedures in 5G:

Contention-Based Random Access (CBRA)

In the Contention-Based Random Access (CBRA) procedure, multiple UEs may randomly
select the same preamble, which can lead to contention, necessitating a resolution process.
Here’s how CBRA works in detail:

How Contention-Based RACH Works

When a UE wants to access the network, it transmits a unique signal called a PRACH
Preamble, essentially acting as a “signature” to request access. Each cell provides 64 unique
preamble signatures that UEs pick from randomly. Because multiple UEs can select the same
preamble simultaneously, there’s a risk of collision or contention. When this happens, the
network performs additional steps to resolve which UE gains access.
Steps in the Contention-Based RACH Procedure

The CBRA procedure generally involves four steps:

➢ Step 1: RACH Preamble Transmission (Msg1)

▪ The UE selects a random preamble and transmits it to the network on the

PRACH. The network receives this request without immediately knowing if
multiple UEs used the same preamble.
▪ Synchronization: During this step, the UE finds an appropriate beam and
initiates access by sending a preamble identified by a Random-Access
Preamble ID (RAPID) with a Zadoff-Chu sequence.
▪ RA-RNTI Calculation: The UE calculates an RA-RNTI using the OFDM symbol,
slot, and frequency indices for Msg1 transmission, essential for addressing the
UE on the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH).

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▪ s_id: Represents the index of the first OFDM symbol in the PRACH, ranging from 0 to
13.
▪ t_id: Represents the index of the first slot in the PRACH within a system frame, ranging
from 0 to 79.
▪ f_id: Indicates the PRACH index in the frequency domain, ranging from 0 to 7.
▪ ul_carrier_id: Specifies the uplink carrier for Msg1 transmission, where 0 is for NUL
(Normal Uplink), and 1 is for SUL (Supplementary Uplink).

➢ Step 2: Network Response with Random Access Response (RAR) (Msg2)

▪ The network responds with a Random-Access Response (RAR), including:

▪ Timing Advance: Adjusts UE transmission timing.

▪ Temporary C-RNTI: A temporary identifier to distinguish UEs in further

steps.
▪ Uplink Grant: Allocates resources for the UE’s next message.
▪ If multiple UEs picked the same preamble, they all receive this RAR and
proceed to the next step using the same resources.
▪ RAR Window Monitoring: The UE monitors for an acknowledgment within a
specific window configured by the network. The UE looks for a DCI format 1_0
message with CRC scrambled by RA-RNTI or C-RNTI.
➢ Step 3: UE Transmission of L2/L3 Message (Msg3)

▪ Each UE sends a Layer 2 or Layer 3 message (L2/L3) on allocated resources,

possibly including connection requests or registration details.
▪ Contention Resolution Aid: The UE includes its identity to aid the network in
resolving contention if multiple UEs use the same resources.
▪ Msg3 Content Variations:
▪ For UEs in RRC_CONNECTED, Msg3 might include details like Buffer
Status Reports (BSRs) or specific messages based on RA initiation types
(e.g., beam recovery).

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 ➢ Step 4: Network Contention Resolution (Msg4)

▪ The network decodes the received messages. If it successfully identifies only

one UE, it confirms access for that UE. Acknowledgment is sent through a
HARQ ACK (Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request Acknowledgement).
▪ Resolution Scenarios:
▪ If the UE has a C-RNTI, contention is resolved by addressing the C-RNTI.
The UE discards Temporary C-RNTI if successful.
▪ If the UE lacks a C-RNTI, the gNB sends Msg4 with a “UE Contention
Resolution Identity,” and the UE verifies this against its identity for
successful contention resolution.

Contention-Free Random Access (CFRA)

In the Contention-Free Random Access (CFRA) procedure, specific preambles are assigned to
individual UEs by the network, minimizing the chance of collision and eliminating the need for
contention resolution. This type of RACH procedure is commonly used during handovers or
high-priority events where the network requires deterministic access.
How Contention-Free RACH Works

➢ UE Preparation: The network assigns a unique preamble to the UE, ensuring no other
UE will use it, thus eliminating any risk of collision.
➢ RACH Preamble Transmission: The UE transmits this pre-determined preamble on the
PRACH.
➢ Network Response with RAR Message: The network replies with a Random-Access
Response (RAR), providing:
▪ Timing Advance for synchronization.
▪ C-RNTI for unique UE identification.
▪ Uplink Grant for allocated resources in the next step.

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In CFRA, no contention resolution is needed, as each UE has a unique preamble, streamlining
access and reducing delays. CFRA is frequently used in situations requiring high priority and
reliability, such as during handovers.
These two types of RACH procedures, CBRA and CFRA, ensure that 5G networks can
efficiently manage network access for multiple UEs under various scenarios, whether in initial
connection, re-synchronization, or handover events.

What is a Preamble in 5G NR?

In 5G New Radio (NR), a preamble is a unique sequence used by the User Equipment (UE) to
initiate communication with the network by signalling a request to access the gNodeB. This
preamble serves as an identifier, helping the gNB recognize and allocate resources to the
specific UE attempting to connect. In 5G NR, preambles are transmitted over the PRACH and
are generated using specific sequence designs to ensure clarity and reliability in access
requests.

Structure of a 5G NR Preamble
A 5G NR preamble is composed of two main components:
▪ Cyclic Prefix (CP): A guard interval positioned at the beginning of the preamble to
mitigate inter-symbol interference.
▪ Preamble Sequence: A distinct sequence derived from a Zadoff–Chu (ZC) design,
tailored for high detection accuracy and reduced interference.

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The lengths of the cyclic prefix, sequence, guard period, and the number of repetitions vary
according to the preamble format, which is chosen based on factors such as cell radius, UE
speed, and environmental conditions.

Preamble Formats in 5G NR
To support different network conditions and cell sizes, 5G NR preambles are divided into two
main types:

▪ Long Sequence Preambles

▪ Short Sequence Preambles
These formats differ in sequence length, bandwidth, subcarrier spacing, and intended
application, enabling 5G networks to adapt to a range of cell sizes and conditions, from small
to large cells.

Long Sequence Preambles

Long Sequence Preambles are generally used in larger cells where extensive coverage is
essential. These preambles are generated from a root sequence of 839 symbols. The primary
formats within long sequence preambles include:
• Format 0
• Format 1
• Format 2

• Format 3
Each format is optimized for specific network needs, allowing the gNB to effectively manage
access requests in diverse cell environments.

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Format 0 and Format 1:

▪ Subcarrier Spacing: Both formats utilize a subcarrier spacing of 1.25 kHz.

▪ Bandwidth: The occupied bandwidth for these formats is 1.08 MHz.
▪ Applications: Designed for low-speed UEs and cells with extensive coverage areas.
Notably, Format 1 can support larger cells due to its sequence duration of 3 ms.
Format 3:
▪ Subcarrier Spacing: This format uses a wider subcarrier spacing of 5 kHz.
▪ Bandwidth: The occupied bandwidth for Format 3 is expanded to 4.32 MHz.

▪ Applications: Ideal for high-speed UEs, as the increased subcarrier spacing enables a
shorter transmission time, effectively reducing delay in fast-moving scenarios.
All formats also support restricted sets (Type A and Type B), configurations specifically
designed to mitigate Doppler shift effects, which is especially useful in high-mobility
environments.

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Short Sequence Preambles
Short Sequence Preambles are generated from a root sequence of 139 symbols, making them
ideal for small cell environments and high-density deployments. These preambles come in
formats A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, B3, B4, C0, and C2, each tailored with specific properties to meet
the demands of small cell scenarios and facilitate efficient beam management.

Subcarrier Spacing: Short sequence preambles support higher subcarrier spacing options,
including 15 kHz, 30 kHz, 60 kHz, and 120 kHz.

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PRACH Configuration Index in 5G NR
In 5G NR, the PRACH Configuration Index plays a vital role in setting up when and how PRACH
sequences are transmitted over the time domain. This parameter defines essential
characteristics such as timing, duration, and frequency for PRACH transmission occasions. The
PRACH Configuration Index essentially informs the UE on the timing for sending a random-
access preamble, ensuring alignment and synchronization with the gNB.
Key Steps in PRACH Sequence Generation:
➢ Generating Frequency-Domain Data: The process begins by generating a sequence in
the frequency domain based on the selected subcarrier spacing and preamble format.
➢ Transforming to Time Domain with IFFT: This frequency-domain sequence is then
transformed into the time domain using an IFFT (Inverse Fast Fourier Transform),
preparing it for over-the-air transmission.
➢ Complexity of the Mathematical Equation: The mathematical equation for this
sequence, as detailed in 3GPP TS 38.211, Section 5.3.2, is complex. While it contains
numerous terms, practical usage often requires only a subset.
➢ Influential Parameters: Core factors like preamble format, cyclic prefix length, and
guard time impact the PRACH’s transmission structure, while smaller parameters are
generally omitted in simplified descriptions.
Random Access Configuration Parameters for FR1 and Paired/Supplementary Uplink
Several configurations control the timing and structure of PRACH transmissions:
▪ PRACH Configuration Index: Specifies the setup for time and frequency allocations for
PRACH.
▪ Preamble Format: Sets the structure and timing of the PRACH preamble; Format 0 is
used as an example here.
▪ nSFN mod x = y Condition: Defines that PRACH occurs when the System Frame
Number (SFN) modulo x = 16 equals y = 1.
▪ Subframe Number: Identifies the subframe within which the PRACH transmission is
scheduled.

▪ Starting Symbol: Indicates the starting OFDM symbol, where PRACH in this example
begins at symbol 0 in each subframe.

▪ PRACH Slots per Subframe: Shows the number of PRACH slots within a subframe, with
a dash (–) indicating non-applicability.

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 ▪ Time-Domain PRACH Occasions per Slot: Specifies PRACH occasions within a slot; a
dash (–) signifies that no occasions are configured for certain setups.
▪ PRACH Duration: Outlines the PRACH transmission duration in OFDM symbols, with 0
meaning no additional duration is specified.
This structured approach in PRACH Configuration Index settings allows precise control over
PRACH transmission timing and format, ensuring efficient random-access procedures within
5G networks.

Given Information for PRACH Config Index 94

From the table:

• Preamble Format: A1
• Starting Symbol: 1
• Subframe Numbers: 4 and 9
• Number of PRACH Slots per Subframe: 1

• Number of Time-Domain PRACH Occasions per Slot: 6

• Frequency Domain Parameter: 2

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Calculation of PRACH Occasions per Frame
To calculate the total PRACH occasions per frame, we use the values as follows:
Total PRACH Occasions per Frame= (PRACH Slots per Subframe) × (PRACH Occasions per Slot)
× (Number of Subframes)
Substitute the values:

PRACH Occasions per Frame=1×6×2=12

Result
Therefore, there are 12 PRACH occasions per frame for PRACH Configuration Index 94 based
on the values in the table.

zeroCorrelationZoneConfig and Ncs

zeroCorrelationZoneConfig:
▪ This parameter is defined by the network in an RRC (Radio Resource Control)
message. It sets the minimum correlation spacing between preamble sequences.

▪ It essentially specifies the cyclic shift length (Ncs), which helps reduce interference
among UEs by determining how much each UE’s preamble sequence is shifted to stay
unique.

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Ncs (Cyclic Shift Length):
▪ Ncs is the cyclic shift applied to the base preamble sequence, derived from the value
of zeroCorrelationZoneConfig.
▪ By varying Ncs, the network ensures that each UE has a unique PRACH preamble
sequence, minimizing the chance of collisions during access.

Relationship between zeroCorrelationZoneConfig and Ncs:

▪ Ncs is obtained by referencing zeroCorrelationZoneConfig in specified mapping tables,

such as Table 6.3.3.1-5 and Table 6.3.3.1-6 for Long Sequence RACH Preambles.

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 ▪ For instance, a higher zeroCorrelationZoneConfig implies a larger Ncs value, which
increases the separation between sequences, lowering interference and allowing
reliable preamble detection.
Example: Suppose two UEs, UE A and UE B, need to access the network. With a high
zeroCorrelationZoneConfig, their preamble sequences have a larger separation, making it
easier for the network to detect them independently, even if both attempt access
simultaneously.

Root Sequence Index

The Root Sequence Index is a crucial parameter used to generate PRACH preambles. This
index identifies the base sequence from which UEs (User Equipment) derive their unique
preamble sequences using cyclic shifts.
• In both LTE and NR (New Radio), the Root Sequence Index is responsible for selecting
a specific base sequence for PRACH preamble generation.
• NR employs distinct numbering schemes for this index at the RRC (Radio Resource
Control) layer and the Physical layer.
• The RRC layer assigns the PRACHRootSequenceIndex to each UE, which must then be
converted into a sequence number (u) at the Physical layer.
• For NR preamble formats with a sequence length LRA=839 (long sequence length), the
mapping between PRACHRootSequenceIndex (i) and sequence number (u) is defined
in 3GPP 38.211, Table 6.3.3.1-3.
• When LRA=1151, a different mapping table (Table 6.3.3.1-4 in 3GPP 38.211) is used to
convert PRACHRootSequenceIndex (i) from the RRC layer to sequence number (u) for
the Physical layer.
• This mapping process ensures consistency between the logical (RRC) and physical
layers in generating PRACH preambles, enabling the network to accurately interpret
and decode each UE’s preamble.
• While the mechanisms for both LRA=839 and LRA=1151 are similar, each uses distinct
tables for mapping, as outlined in 3GPP 38.211.
• Additionally, L_RA values of 139 and 571 follow similar methods, with corresponding
mapping tables defined in the standard.

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PRACH Sequence Types in NR: Long vs. Short Sequences and the Role of
zeroCorrelationZoneConfig and Cyclic Shift (Ncs)
In NR, unlike LTE, two types of PRACH sequences—Long and Short—are utilized, each suited
for specific deployment scenarios. Key parameters, such as zeroCorrelationZoneConfig and
Cyclic Shift (Ncs), influence these sequences to ensure efficient access and minimal
interference.
Key Differences

Long Sequence
▪ Purpose: Designed for large cell deployments, typically in rural or expansive outdoor
areas.
▪ Details: Sequence length of 839 (L_RA = 839) with four available preamble formats,
adapted from LTE preamble formats.
▪ Deployment Region: Restricted to FR1, supporting subcarrier spacings of 1.25 kHz and
5 kHz.
▪ Function of zeroCorrelationZoneConfig and Ncs: These parameters manage restricted
sets and cyclic shifts, ensuring distinct PRACH access for each UE, reducing collision,
and enhancing signal detection.

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Short Sequence
▪ Purpose: Tailored for small cells or indoor scenarios, focusing on environments where
cell coverage is limited and dense.
▪ Characteristics: Shorter sequence length for quick access and efficient signal detection
in high-density areas.

Role of zeroCorrelationZoneConfig and Cyclic Shift (Ncs)

The zeroCorrelationZoneConfig and Ncs parameters define the cyclic shifts and restrict the
PRACH sets. This configuration minimizes potential PRACH collisions and optimizes unique
cyclic shifts for each UE, enhancing access reliability and detection across diverse scenarios.
By offering both long and short sequences with configurable parameters, NR accommodates
varied deployment needs, from vast outdoor regions to compact indoor spaces.

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Understanding RACH Occasion in 5G NR
In 5G NR, a RACH Occasion (RO) is a designated time-frequency resource block where the
network listens for PRACH preambles transmitted by UEs. Unlike in LTE, the concept of RACH
Occasion in NR is more intricate due to the use of multiple beams and the specific mapping of
Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs) to RACH occasions.

• Time-Frequency Area for PRACH Preambles: RACH occasions are specific areas within
the time and frequency domains where the network monitors for PRACH preambles
from UEs.

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 ▪ Multiple RACH Occasions for Beam Alignment: In NR, there can be multiple RACH
occasions, each associated with different beams, to support beam-based
communication.
▪ SSB Transmission and Beam Selection: The gNB transmits SSBs with designated
beams, enabling UEs to select the strongest beam available. Once a UE selects an SSB,
it sends its PRACH preamble in a specific RACH Occasion mapped to that SSB, aiding
the network in determining the UE's chosen beam.
▪ msg1-FDM (Frequency Domain Multiplexing): Defines the number of RACH occasions
within the frequency domain that are available in a single time slot.
▪ ssb-perRACH-OccasionAndCB-PreamblesPerSSB: Sets the number of SSBs mapped to
each RACH Occasion and specifies the number of unique preamble indices assigned
per SSB.

Mapping Logic for RACH Preambles

RACH preambles follow an ordered organization, as described in 3GPP 38.213, Section 8.1:
▪ Preamble Indexing: Begins with the lowest preamble index for each RACH occasion.
▪ Frequency Resource Allocation: If multiple RACH occasions exist in the frequency
domain, the frequency index increases.
▪ Time Resource Allocation: For RACH occasions within the same slot, the time index is
incremented.
▪ PRACH Slot Allocation: When multiple PRACH slots are available, the slot index is
increased.

This structured mapping ensures that UEs can access RACH occasions efficiently and that the
network can accurately interpret each preamble's timing, frequency, and beam association.

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