INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Qualcomm is offering what it claims is the industry’s first 5G New Radio (5G NR) platform for small cells.Small cells are already being
used to densify 3G and 4G networks in densely populated urban areas, using high-level spectrum with short range but high capacity, but are
expected to become a significant feature of 5G infrastructure.Qualcomm’s ‘FSM100xx’ platform works with both sub-6 GHz frequencies and
higher millimetre Wave (mmWave) spectrum.5G small cellsEarly 5G networks in the UK will make use of 3.4GHz airwaves recently auction by
Ofcom, while mmWave frequencies of 24GHz and higher will be used to deliver fixed wireless access (FWA) broadband services in countries like
Most 5G networks will eventually make use of a combination of both, delivering the right balance of range and capacity.Qualcomm’s small
cell product allows network equipment manufacturers to reuse software and hardware designs across different types of spectrum and will help
operators deliver consistent signals in urban areas and challenging indoor environments
It also offers support for MIMO and multi-gigabit throughput, while it also lowers power consumption demands and supports power over
Ethernet (PoE).A software-defined modem also means it can be upgraded to future 3GPP 5G standard releases and also lets customers choose a
Radio Access Network (RAN) technology to suit their needs.Qualcomm is already working with early access customers and it is expected to
start sampling next year.Separately, Qualcomm is also working with Facebook on high speed connectivity using the latter’s Terragraph
Terragraph aims to offer a rapid and reliable wireless broadband connection at the fraction of the cost of fibre
It supports mmWave backhaul on 60GHz and is one of the social network’s numerous connectivity initiatives.“We’re excited to work with
Qualcomm Technologies to advance the adoption of pre-802.11ay and 802.11ad 60GHz technologies and build a robust ecosystem of interoperable
solutions based on Terragraph,” said Yael Maguire, head of connectivity, Facebook
“With Terragraph, our goal is to enable people living in urban areas to access high-quality connectivity that can help create new
opportunities and strengthen communities.” Want to find out more about 5G Check out our dedicated 5Ghub!
