Upgrade Your Network with C-Band | 5G DAS Platforms | Corning

What is C-band?

What is C-band?

C-band is the recently auctioned 3.7-3.98 GHz spectrum that allocates broader, dedicated channels to deliver improved throughput and capacity in the entire network. Made up of three bands in the spectrum: low, mid, and high, each band offers different characteristics that allow a variety of combinations to suit different situations. 

Part of the mid band of spectrum, the C-band 5G spectrum enhances the network with 5G capability, a powerful layer for improved connectivity that supports both coverage and capacity demanded by mobile subscribers using cellular technology. 

The C-band spectrum offers an ideal balance between coverage and capacity

What is spectrum and where does C-band fit? 

What is spectrum and where does C-band fit? 

Spectrum is typically divided into 3 main bands. Each band has unique characteristics that support the cellular broadband network:
 

  1. Low-band, which is typically sub-1 GHz offers maximum coverage but speeds are lower than mid and high bands.  This spectrum band travels far, penetrates buildings and walls adequately and is cost-effective using macro towers for coverage. Capacity and bandwidth supporting intensive applications is limited though.

  2. Mid-band, which ranges between 1-6 GHz, provides an ideal balance between coverage and capacity. While this band offers high capacity for optimal connectivity and support of multiple devices and applications, its limitations include penetration of some buildings and walls and coverage is between low and high bands.  The mid-band spectrums include 3.45-3.55 GHz, 3.55-3.7 GHz (CBRS) and 3.7-3.98 GHz (C-band).

  3. High-band, also referred to as mmWave, is spectrum above 6 GHz and delivers high-bandwidth connectivity in a limited area. mmWave does not penetrate buildings or walls, is limited by Line Of Sight (LOS) and does not travel long distances. Used in high traffic areas such as shopping malls, stadium suites, and gates at airports, mmWave supports a high concentration of people in a small area using multiple devices to download, stream and communicate.  
Spectrum Band Characteristics

Low-band

Wide coverage areas

Limited capacity

Mid-band

City-wide coverage areas

High capacity

High-band

Small areas/hotspot coverage

Ultra-high capacity

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