BBUs

BBUs is an acronym that can refer to two common concepts in technology and telecommunications: baseband units and battery backup units. The meaning depends on the context.

Baseband Unit: In cellular networks, a baseband unit is a processing hardware and software module that handles baseband signal processing for one or more cells. It runs tasks such as modulation and demodulation, error correction, coding, and radio resource management. The BBU also performs scheduling, control-plane processing, and interfaces with the core network. BBUs connect to remote radio units or antenna modules through fronthaul links, using protocols like CPRI or eCPRI. In centralized or cloud-RAN architectures, BBUs may be pooled in data centers or central offices, while radio units remain at cell sites. The BBU’s performance characteristics, including latency, capacity, and power efficiency, directly affect network throughput and responsiveness.

Battery Backup Unit: A battery backup unit provides temporary electrical power to connected equipment during utility outages or instability. BBUs are typically part of a UPS system or deployed as standalone modules. They house rechargeable batteries (such as lead-acid or lithium-ion) and power-management electronics, with monitoring and protection features. BBUs are designed to sustain critical devices for minutes to hours, depending on capacity, and are common in data centers, telecom sites, medical facilities, and industrial installations. Regular maintenance includes battery health checks, temperature management, and firmware or software updates.

In practice, BBUs should be interpreted from context to distinguish between baseband processing hardware and power backup equipment.