Introduction
In a digital age defined by rapid advancements, the horizon of connectivity is expanding like never. In the early stage of the 5G rollout, most countries tried to promote its deployment based on 5G Sub-6GHz. This is because it can build upon the experience and technology from the 4G era, offering the advantages of wide coverage and relatively faster speeds. It is very suitable for rapid initial deployment, assisting consumers and businesses in quickly experiencing the convenience of 5G.
However, with the continuous enrichment of outdoor multimedia and entertainment content, the demand for 5G networks is shifting from traditional mobile devices such as smart phones and computers to a pursuit of higher internet speeds for industrial automation, healthcare, intelligent transportation, and AR/VR experiences. This leads wireless carriers to focus on how to deliver services that upgrade the current mobile network experience, especially in densely populated, economically thriving urban areas where entertainment lifestyles are rapidly evolving. In terms of network coverage in suburban areas, there is a need to consider how to provide higher-quality network services for users in these regions.
Decoding 5G mmWave’s Significance
5G mmWave — an innovation that operates within the millimeter wavelength spectrum and serves as the bedrock of 5G technology. It contains some significant features:
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Enhanced Speed: mmWave, introduced as the NR frequency range 2 (24-52 GHz) (FR2) in the 3GPP specifications, is considered the “Rising star” to unleash the 10 Gigabit speed limits in 5G. And according to the latest news reported in July 2023, Nokia said it has achieved sustained average downlink speeds of over 2 Gbps using mmWave spectrum and 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) over a distance of 10.86 kilometers.
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Low Latency: mmWave technology features such as short wavelengths, beamforming, large bandwidth, and support for real-time applications make it well-suited for achieving ultra-low latency.
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Elevated Capacity: Leveraging the wide frequency band available in the mmWave spectrum, and the unique short wavelengths, mmWave has the potential to provide up to 1000MHz bandwidth, which will bring users an unprecedented high-speed experience.
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Millimeter wave antennas are smaller and equipment is lighter, which makes deployment more convenient.
Source: GSMA-5G-mmWave-Factsheet-Unlocking-the-Full-Potential-of-5G.pdf
These collective attributes synergize to empower 5G mmWave with seamless functionality, especially in densely populated environments such as dense residential areas, dense business districts, bustling airports, dynamic stadiums, and vibrant music theaters. In these high-traffic arenas, where the need for rapid internet is tremendous, 5G mmWave performs exceptionally, delivering an internet experience with seamless connectivity.
Furthermore, Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) emerges as a pivotal use case for 5G millimeter wave technology, catering to both residential and commercial settings. This technology finds utility in offering high-speed wireless internet connectivity for homes and office buildings, enriching the communication landscape.
For instance, in the pioneering 5G deployment undertaken by the United States, a strategic emphasis has been placed on mmWave networks. Geographical considerations play a pivotal role in the mmWave deployment strategy. With most highly populated American cities concentrated along the East and West coasts, as well as select southern states, network operators prioritize the establishment of robust infrastructure in these densely populated zones. The inherent advantages of mmWave help users to have a fast-speed and stable internet connection.
Furthermore, in India, urban landscapes are characterized by a dense population, resulting in a heightened requirement for seamless high-speed and low-latency data connectivity. In this context, the capabilities offered by mmWave technology become particularly pertinent. Its capacity to deliver elevated data rates and accommodate substantial data loads aligns exceptionally well with the data-intensive needs of urban dwellers in the country while balancing the deployment cost.
Therefore, mmWave emerges as the feasible solution to cater to the evolving demands of the modern connectivity landscape. With its remarkable combination of high speed, low latency, and elevated capacity, mmWave is poised to revolutionize connectivity, particularly in densely populated urban areas and suburban regions.
Unveiling the future
The 5G mmWave system boasts abundant frequency resources and a substantial bandwidth, offering a solution to the global shortage of mid-to-low frequency spectrum resources. Mid-band is perfect for 5G rollout in wide areas and high-band offers large capacity for precise areas. When combined with Sub-6GHz tech, it covers the entire country with 5G.
Due to their shorter wavelengths, mmWave corresponds to frequencies of 30-300 GHz. This frequency is considered quite high in the electromagnetic spectrum. Higher frequencies result in faster signal transmission speeds and greater storage capacity. This way, it can reach data speeds over several Gbps in certain places.
Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) devices work together effectively by combining the 5G Sub-6GHz frequency range with mmWave technology. 5G Sub-6GHz fulfills the role of genuine high-speed transmission to make up for the flaws of 5G mmWave requiring a high cost of transmission in a wider range. Leveraging the 5G mmWave system allows for the deployment of a greater number of antenna arrays within the same area, concentrating beamforming energy. Employing transmission technology in short-distance and low-interference scenarios ensures superior network stability and higher transmission speeds. Ultimately, this empowers both households and businesses with FWA services and cost-effective deployments.
Choose Fibocom’s 5G mmWave Solution to Unlock the Speed Limits of FWA
Fibocom’s FG190W 5G mmWave and Sub-6GHz module support up to 1000MHz bandwidth in the mmWave frequency range and NR 10CA for downlink. It also supports up to 300MHz bandwidth in NR Sub-6GHz and NR 5CA for downlink, achieving a maximum downlink peak of 10Gbps. The module is built with an LGA package, supporting flexible custom development needs.
Multiple reserved interfaces empower the ODU to connect external omnidirectional, directional, and mmWave antennas. These antennas penetrate signals more effectively and environmental changes while maintaining alignment, ensuring network link availability. With the support of dual connectivity simultaneously, 5G Sub-6GHz and 5G mmWave, the module can receive and transmit wireless signals even in complex environments, enabling unrestricted 5G signal utilization.
The solution can be implemented through Open CPU development architecture, allowing flexible choices based on customer requirements. Meanwhile, the Open CPU approach reduces the physical size of terminal products, increases integration, and lowers overall costs and energy consumption. Diverse development architecture options provide convenience, fostering the adoption and application of 5G FWA technology.
Conclusion
5G mmWave's Bright Future
In a world that thrives on innovation, 5G mmWave emerges as the beacon guiding us toward a new era of connectivity. As a leading global wireless module and solution provider, Fibocom’s journey through its potential takes on added significance, illustrating the transformative power that mmWave technology holds in redefining the global landscape.
