5g NCR

5G NR Frequency Bands: An Overview
Introduction to 5G NR Frequency Bands

The 5G New Radio (NR) standard represents the next evolution in wireless
technology, offering faster speeds, higher capacity, lower latency, and better
connectivity for numerous applications.
One of the most critical aspects of 5G NR is its use of a wide range of frequency
bands, which are divided into several categories depending on the use case and
performance requirements. Understanding the different frequency bands and their
implications is key to unlocking the full potential of 5G.
In wireless communications, the frequency spectrum is akin to a highway, with

different lanes (frequencies) facilitating the flow of data. With each generational leap
in cellular technology (1G, 2G, 3G, 4G, and now 5G), the demand for higher data
rates and lower latency has driven the need to access broader and more varied
portions of this frequency spectrum.
Understanding Frequency Bands in Wireless Communication

Before diving into the specific frequency bands used in 5G NR, it’s essential to
understand what a frequency band is and why it matters.
A frequency band refers to a specific range of frequencies within the electromagnetic

spectrum that is allocated for transmitting signals. The electromagnetic spectrum is a
vast range of frequencies, from low frequencies like radio waves to high frequencies
like X-rays and gamma rays. For wireless communication, we primarily use the radio
frequency (RF) spectrum, which spans from 3 kHz to 300 GHz.
Different frequency bands within this RF spectrum are used for various types of
communication, from television broadcasts and satellite communication to mobile
networks like 4G and 5G. However, not all frequencies are equal—some frequencies
are better suited for long-range communication, while others are better for
transmitting large amounts of data quickly but over shorter distances.
In the context of wireless networks, the radio frequency spectrum is subdivided

into various bands, each of which is further divided into smaller chunks, known as
channels. These channels are then assigned to different carriers (telecom
companies) through licensing agreements by regulatory bodies such as the Federal
www.techedgewireless.com
Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States or the European
Electronic Communications Committee (ECC) in Europe.
When a mobile phone connects to a 4G or 5G network, it communicates with a

nearby cell tower over a specific frequency band. The characteristics of this band—
such as its frequency range—determine the speed, coverage, and reliability of the
connection.
Overview of 5G NR Frequency Bands

The 5G NR standard defines several frequency bands that range from below 1 GHz
to above 50 GHz. These bands are grouped into three main categories:
▪ Low-band spectrum: Frequencies below 1 GHz.
Low-band frequencies are below 1 GHz and have been traditionally used for 2G,
3G, and 4G networks. These frequencies are highly valued for their ability to
cover large areas and penetrate through buildings and obstacles effectively. In the
context of 5G NR, low-band spectrum is particularly useful for providing
widespread coverage and ensuring continuous service in rural or suburban areas.
▪ Mid-band spectrum: Frequencies between 1 GHz and 6 GHz.
The mid-band spectrum, often referred to as the "sweet spot" for 5G, provides a
balance between coverage and capacity. This range includes frequencies that
were previously used for 3G and 4G networks, such as 1.8 GHz, 2.1 GHz, and 3.5
GHz. The mid-band is essential for achieving the high data rates that 5G
promises, while also maintaining good coverage, especially in urban and
suburban areas.
▪ High-band spectrum (mmWave): Frequencies above 24 GHz.
Millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies are a key innovation in 5G NR, offering

extremely high data rates and capacity. These frequencies, typically above 24
GHz, are ideal for applications requiring ultra-high-speed connections, such as
augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and ultra-HD video streaming.
However, mmWave has a much shorter range compared to low and mid-band
frequencies and is more susceptible to interference from obstacles like buildings
and trees.
3GPP Frequency Bands for 5G NR
The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has standardized a range of

frequency bands for 5G NR, known as the "FR1" and "FR2" bands.
▪ FR1 (Frequency Range 1): Includes low and mid-band frequencies, from 410
MHz to 7.125 GHz. These bands are commonly used for both coverage and
capacity purposes.
▪ FR2 (Frequency Range 2): Covers the high-band mmWave frequencies, from
24.25 GHz to 52.6 GHz, offering extremely high data rates but with limited
coverage.
Reference: 3gpp-38.101
Operating Bands in 5G-NR
Bands in FR1
Reference: 3gpp 38.104
Bands in FR2
Supported Channel Bandwidth for Each 5G NR Frequency Band

FR-1
FR-2

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5G NR Frequency Bands: An Overview

Introduction to 5G NR Frequency Bands

In wireless communications, the frequency spectrum is akin to a highway, with

Understanding Frequency Bands in Wireless Communication

A frequency band refers to a specific range of frequencies within the electromagnetic

In the context of wireless networks, the radio frequency spectrum is subdivided

When a mobile phone connects to a 4G or 5G network, it communicates with a

Overview of 5G NR Frequency Bands

▪ Low-band spectrum: Frequencies below 1 GHz.

▪ Mid-band spectrum: Frequencies between 1 GHz and 6 GHz.

▪ High-band spectrum (mmWave): Frequencies above 24 GHz.

Millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies are a key innovation in 5G NR, offering

The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has standardized a range of

Reference: 3gpp 38.104

Reference: 3gpp 38.104

Supported Channel Bandwidth for Each 5G NR Frequency Band

Reference: 3gpp 38.104

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