nsa 5g bands
Non-Standalone (NSA) 5G refers to an initial deployment approach where 5G networks are deployed alongside existing 4G LTE networks. This means that the 5G network relies on the existing LTE infrastructure for certain functions, particularly the Evolved Packet Core (EPC). In the NSA deployment, 5G provides enhanced data rates and capacity while still leveraging the 4G LTE network for tasks like signaling and mobility management.
The frequency bands used for NSA 5G are generally defined by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), the organization responsible for standardizing cellular communication technologies. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the following are common frequency bands allocated for NSA 5G:
- Sub-6 GHz Bands:
- Frequencies below 6 GHz are known as sub-6 GHz bands, and they are crucial for providing wide-area coverage and good penetration through obstacles.
- Examples of sub-6 GHz bands for 5G NSA include:
- Frequency Range 1 (FR1):
- 3.5 GHz (n78): This band is widely used for 5G deployments globally.
- 2.6 GHz (n41): This band is utilized in various regions for 5G.
- 2.3 GHz (n40): Deployed in some countries for 5G.
- Frequency Range 1 (FR1):
- mmWave (Millimeter Wave) Bands:
- Frequencies in the mmWave range (above 24 GHz) offer high data rates but have shorter range and may require more advanced infrastructure due to increased susceptibility to signal absorption by atmospheric gases and building materials.
- Examples of mmWave bands for 5G NSA include:
- Frequency Range 2 (FR2):
- 28 GHz (n257): Deployed in some regions for high-capacity 5G.
- 39 GHz (n260): Used in some areas for 5G networks.
- Frequency Range 2 (FR2):
These frequency bands are used for both 4G LTE and NSA 5G deployments. The NSA 5G deployment allows for a smoother transition from 4G to 5G, and devices can dynamically switch between 4G and 5G connections based on network conditions and coverage.