The range of frequency bands used in 5G networks spans a wide spectrum, encompassing both sub-6 GHz frequencies and millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies. The allocation of frequency bands in 5G is designed to accommodate diverse use cases, striking a balance between coverage, capacity, and data rates.
- Low-Band Frequencies:
- Low-band frequencies typically refer to those below 1 GHz. Commonly used low-band frequencies in 5G include the 600 MHz and 700 MHz bands. These low frequencies offer extensive coverage and better penetration through obstacles, making them suitable for rural and wide-area deployments. While providing broad coverage, low-band frequencies are generally associated with more moderate data rates compared to higher-frequency bands.
- Mid-Band Frequencies:
- Mid-band frequencies fall within the range of 1 GHz to 6 GHz. A prominent mid-band frequency used in 5G is the 3.5 GHz band. Mid-band frequencies strike a balance between coverage and capacity, making them suitable for urban and suburban deployments. These frequencies offer higher data rates than low-band frequencies and are essential for delivering enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) services in areas with moderate population density.
- High-Band or mmWave Frequencies:
- High-band frequencies, also known as mmWave frequencies, typically start from 24 GHz and go up to 100 GHz. Common mmWave bands used in 5G include 24 GHz, 28 GHz, and 39 GHz. MmWave frequencies provide extremely high data rates and capacity but come with challenges such as shorter range and sensitivity to obstacles like buildings and foliage. Due to these characteristics, mmWave frequencies are often deployed in dense urban areas to support ultra-fast data speeds and high-capacity applications.
- Upper Mid-Band Frequencies (Sub-1 GHz):
- Frequencies between 600 MHz and 1 GHz are sometimes referred to as upper mid-band frequencies. These frequencies offer a compromise between coverage and capacity, making them suitable for a variety of deployment scenarios.
The specific frequency bands allocated for 5G can vary by region and country based on regulatory decisions and spectrum availability. The range of frequency bands in 5G allows network operators to choose the most suitable bands for their deployment scenarios, considering factors such as population density, urbanization, and the desired balance between coverage and capacity.
In summary, the range of 5G frequency bands includes low-band frequencies for broad coverage, mid-band frequencies for a balance between coverage and capacity, and high-band or mmWave frequencies for extremely high data rates and capacity in specific scenarios.