The evolution of 5G networks has brought revolutionary changes to wireless communications, especially in the FR1 (Sub-6 GHz) and FR2 (Millimeter Wave) frequency ranges. Each of these frequency bands has unique characteristics and application scenarios.
FR1 (Sub-6 GHz) Frequency Range
FR1, or the Sub-6 GHz frequency range, covers the spectrum from 450 MHz to 6 GHz. The main advantages of this range are its wide coverage and strong penetration, making it highly suitable for providing continuous 5G coverage in urban, suburban, and rural areas.
Advantages
- Wide Coverage: The longer wavelengths of the FR1 band enable longer distance propagation, offering broader coverage.
- Penetration: Better ability to penetrate buildings, ensuring indoor coverage.
- Compatibility: Higher compatibility with existing 4G LTE network technologies.
Disadvantages
- Band Congestion: This frequency band is already widely used, leading to congestion issues.
- Speed Limitations: Lower data transfer rates compared to FR2.
FR2 (Millimeter Wave) Frequency Range
FR2, or the Millimeter Wave frequency range, encompasses the 24 GHz to 100 GHz spectrum. This frequency range provides space for high bandwidth and high data rate transmissions, but it has limited coverage and penetration abilities.
Advantages
- High Data Rates: Far higher data transmission rates than FR1, ideal for high bandwidth applications.
- Band Space: Less usage, meaning less interference and a wider available spectrum.
Disadvantages
- Limited Coverage: Shorter wavelengths result in relatively small coverage areas.
- Weak Penetration: Poor penetration through buildings, easily obstructed by physical barriers.
- Cost and Complexity: Higher costs for deploying FR2 networks, requiring a denser array of base stations.
FR1 vs FR2
Comparing FR1 and FR2, we notice significant differences in aspects such as power, cost, efficiency, coverage, etc. FR1 offers wider coverage and better penetration but lags in data transfer rates compared to FR2. FR2, while providing extremely high rates, comes with higher costs and weaker coverage and penetration abilities.
Cost Comparison
- FR1: Relatively lower deployment costs, due to better compatibility with existing 4G infrastructures.
- FR2: Higher deployment costs, necessitating more base stations for adequate service coverage.
Speed and Efficiency
- FR1: Provides stable but comparatively lower data transfer rates.
- FR2: Highly efficient in data transfer, particularly suitable for data-intensive applications.
Coverage and Penetration
- FR1: Wide coverage, stronger penetration capabilities, suitable for wide area networks.
- FR2: Limited coverage, requiring a denser network layout to compensate for weaker penetration.