What is band 46 in LTE?

In LTE, Band 46 is a specific frequency band used for LTE network operations. It is defined by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) and serves particular purposes for both uplink and downlink communication. Let me explain how Band 46 fits into the broader LTE spectrum and why it’s important for network deployment.

Band 46 operates in the 5 GHz range and is part of the TDD (Time Division Duplex) spectrum. Specifically, it covers frequencies from 5140 MHz to 5240 MHz for the uplink, and 5740 MHz to 5840 MHz for the downlink. This makes it suitable for use in dense urban areas or specialized deployments like indoor and high-traffic environments.

Key Features of Band 46

Frequency Range: 5140 MHz to 5240 MHz (uplink) and 5740 MHz to 5840 MHz (downlink)
Duplex Mode: Time Division Duplex (TDD)
Bandwidth: It supports up to 100 MHz of bandwidth for efficient communication.
Region: Primarily used in regions with high demand for capacity, such as crowded urban environments.

Why Is Band 46 Important?

Band 46 is particularly beneficial in situations where existing frequency bands (like the 700 MHz or 2600 MHz bands) are already crowded, especially in urban areas with heavy traffic. It’s often used in areas that require more capacity and faster data speeds. Band 46, being part of the TDD spectrum, allows for more dynamic allocation of uplink and downlink resources. This flexibility helps accommodate varying user demands and network conditions.

Another significant use case for Band 46 is in providing coverage for high-capacity scenarios such as large indoor venues, stadiums, or concert halls where a lot of users are connected at the same time. By leveraging Band 46, operators can enhance coverage and ensure better user experience.

Deployment and Challenges

While Band 46 is advantageous in terms of bandwidth and coverage for dense environments, its deployment requires specific consideration of factors like interference, cell planning, and proper equipment configuration. As with any TDD band, managing interference between adjacent cells becomes crucial for ensuring optimal performance.

As we have learned in previous articles about frequency bands, the use of specific bands like Band 46 helps tailor LTE networks to different deployment needs, whether for rural, urban, or specialized indoor use cases.