Gigabit Cellular Networks Could Happen, With 24GHz Spectrum

An anonymous reader writes A Notice of Inquiry was issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Friday that focuses research on higher frequencies for sending gigabit streams of mobile data. The inquiry specifically states that its purpose is to determine "what frequency bands above 24 GHz would be most suitable for mobile services, and to begin developing a record on mobile service rules and a licensing framework for mobile services in those bands". Cellular networks currently use frequencies between 600 MHz to 3 GHz with the most desirable frequencies under 1 GHz being owned by AT&T and Verizon Wireless. The FCC feels, however, that new technology indicates the potential for utilizing higher frequency ranges not necessarily as a replacement but as the implementation necessary to finally usher in 5G wireless technology. The FCC anticipates the advent of 5G commercial offerings within six years.

Comments

Who wants a gigabit cellular network?

[BigButra]

All a gigabit cellular network would do is give you the ability to hit your data limit in less than a minute. I would prefer to take time to savor the precious data I've paid through the nose for and my provider has so thoughtfully allocated to me.

Re:Who wants a gigabit cellular network?

[rudy_wayne]

All a gigabit cellular network would do is give you the ability to hit your data limit in less than a minute.

Exactly. And you'll get the privledge of paying more for the faster speed, too.

Re:too much multi pathing at that frequency

[Buck Feta]

That was true 5 years ago, but MIMO antennas actually benefit from multipath.

Re:too much multi pathing at that frequency

[__aaltlg1547]

There is no kind of antenna nor any RF signal that is improved by multipath. What MIMO antennas are supposed to do is reduce the detrimental effects of multipath fading.