Citizens Broadband Radio Service

Advancements in wireless technologies and additional spectrum availability continue to drive demand for faster and more reliable wireless connectivity. CBRS is a Private LTE and 5G option to consider for specific use cases. Contact Ampli-Fi to learn more.

Private LTE and 5G

Band 48 connectivity is currently available on specific hardware including Apple and Samsung’s newest mobile devices. As mobile device adoption continues to grow, CBRS solutions will become more prominent solution to enhance wireless connectivity without the headache of channel interference, channel overlap experienced in Wi-Fi’s 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz spectrum.

New Wireless Spectrum

The FCC recently made available Band 48 for private use. Due to the congestion of traditional Wi-Fi networks in 2.4 Ghz and 5 Ghz, Citizens Broadband Radio Service or CBRS, allows for deployment and use on the 3.5 Ghz spectrum. CBRS is also known as Private LTE and Private 5G. CBRS can be used in a variety of applications including but not limited to, enterprise, manufacturing, distribution, warehousing and office space. The infrastructure required to deploy CBRS is similar to that of a Wi-Fi network. CBRS access points can be deployed with CAT 6 cabling throughout your building. CBRS is a licensed, but private wireless network, therefore, having less congestion than traditional wireless networks. 

Why would someone choose a CBRS network over a Wi-Fi or DAS system? If your Wi-Fi network is congested and you desire a more stable wireless network for specific equipment, CBRS could be a good option. Also, some of the latest versions of mobile devices like Apple iPhone, Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel now include a Band 48 radio, enabling connectivity, browsing and calling via CBRS networks.

CBRS networks can be installed indoors and outdoors. In some use cases, schools have installed CBRS towers on their building rooftops, providing coverage for students throughout their neighborhoods. In another use case, a food processing plant, utilized CBRS to provide outdoor coverage in replace of cellular coverage for mobile outdoor routers.

Because the network is private and owned by the end user, it can be deployed outdoors without having to wait for long carrier coordination time frames like in a traditional DAS. CBRS requires certifications including but not limited to, CPI and iBwave.

If you are considering a CBRS solution or you need help in your decision making process, contact Ampli-Fi to provide you the expertise and industry knowledge to deploy Band 48 successfully.

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