V and E Bands Key to the 5G Revolution

The power of 5G wireless depends on the use of millimeter wave (mmWave) bands to deliver larger gigabit capacities. Some 5G deployments will be in the sub-6 GHz band, specifically the 3.65 GHz band in the US with a total of 150 MHz of available spectrum, but the broadband industry is shifting its attention to frequencies of 24 GHz and more. These higher-frequency mmWave bands have GHz of spectrum available to generate gigabit connectivity and accommodate 5G services. Initial focus has been on 24, 28 and 39 GHz, but because of the enormous number of internet of things (IoT) devices and new broadband services for homes and business connected via 5G networks, various industry players also are looking at the rich potential of bands far above that. Licensed bands auctioned by the FCC are one way to gain more spectrum. But V band and E band offer a more affordable, accessible alternative for smaller and rural providers that may not have the big bucks to bid in the auctions.

[David Sumi is vice president of marketing at Siklu Communication, a provider of multigigabit wireless fiber connectivity]