Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) is a technology that allows the simultaneous use of multiple generations of wireless technology within the same frequency band. In the context of 5G, DSS enables the sharing of spectrum resources between 4G LTE and 5G NR (New Radio) technologies. The bands used for 5G DSS can vary, but they are typically within the Sub-6 GHz frequency range and the millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequency range. Here’s an overview:
- Sub-6 GHz Bands:
- Low-Band (600 MHz – 2.5 GHz): DSS can operate in the low-band spectrum, which includes frequencies below 2.5 GHz. This range is often referred to as the Sub-1 GHz or Sub-2 GHz spectrum. Low-band frequencies provide better coverage and penetration but may have limitations in terms of data capacity compared to higher frequency bands.
- Mid-Band (2.5 GHz – 6 GHz): The mid-band spectrum, also known as the Sub-6 GHz spectrum, is a crucial range for 5G DSS. It strikes a balance between coverage and data capacity, making it suitable for urban and suburban deployments. DSS allows operators to dynamically allocate spectrum resources between 4G and 5G technologies in this frequency range.
- Millimeter-Wave (mmWave) Bands:
- High-Band (24 GHz and above): mmWave bands offer extremely high data rates but have limited coverage and are susceptible to signal attenuation over distance and obstacles. DSS in mmWave bands allows for efficient use of these high-frequency resources, ensuring that both 4G and 5G devices can coexist and share the available spectrum.
5G DSS is particularly valuable during the initial phases of 5G deployment when a significant portion of the network infrastructure and user devices still support 4G LTE. DSS allows network operators to leverage their existing 4G infrastructure while gradually transitioning to 5G, optimizing the use of available spectrum resources.
It’s important to note that specific frequency bands allocated for 5G DSS may vary by region and regulatory decisions. The flexibility provided by DSS is instrumental in the smooth evolution of networks, allowing operators to efficiently utilize spectrum resources and meet the growing demand for high-speed and low-latency connectivity.