The mmWave range is a new spectrum range for 5G NR, and it supports the largest bandwidth in a cell. However, it has poor coverage capabilities, as it requires high performance from RF components and generally applies only to line of sight (LOS) coverage. This makes it challenging to use in many applications, as it requires careful planning and implementation in order to ensure effective coverage.
5G Implementation Guidelines: NSA Option 3 - Future Networks
https://www.gsma.com/futurenetworks/wiki/5g-implementation-guidelines/
5G RAN - Radio Access Networks - Ericsson
https://www.ericsson.com/en/ran
Understanding mmWave for 5G Networks 1 - 5G Americas
https://www.5gamericas.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/InDesign-Understanding-mmWave-for-5G-Networks.pdf
The millimeter wave (mmWave) range is new for 5G NR (New Radio). It supports the largest bandwidth in a cell but has poor coverage capabilities. It requires high performance from RF components and generally applies only to line of sight (LOS) coverage.
The mmWave range is considered to be the higher frequency range of the 5G spectrum and it includes frequencies above 24GHz, such as 28GHz, 38GHz and 60GHz. These frequencies offer a large amount of bandwidth, which is necessary to support high-data rate services, such as ultra-high-definition video streaming, virtual reality, and the internet of things.
However, the mmWave range has poor coverage capabilities because the signals are easily blocked by obstacles such as buildings and trees, and they also have a shorter propagation distance than lower frequency bands. Therefore, mmWave range is generally used for high-density urban areas, and indoor environments.
Additionally, RF components for mmWave have to meet high performance requirements, such as high linearity, high gain and high power handling capability. Also, the mmWave signals are highly sensitive to the presence or absence of a clear line of sight (LOS) between the transmitter and the receiver, which makes it less reliable for non-line-of-sight (NLOS) coverage.
