The Broadband Forum has published a new technical report describing how a single 5G fixed wireless access (FWA) connection can provide multiple tenants with gigabit broadband connections by reusing the building’s existing infrastructure.
Fixed wireless handles this complexity by making a connection over a radio link for communications between a base station and user equipment, such as 5G modems, that are typically installed in the apartment.
According to the Broadband Forum report, a fixed wireless 5G network is suitable to provide broadband services with a high-level of coverage for radio frequencies under 6 GHz. However, for gigabit-level or multi-gigabit speeds, broadband service providers should make use of high-band “Frequency Range 2” 5G mmWave spectrum at 24-40 GHz.
Previously, Gigabit speeds had been difficult or impossible to achieve if the building didn’t have fiber. The Broadband Forum’s specifications enable apartments to be reached with fixed wireless using the existing property infrastructure — including twisted pair, telephone wiring, or coaxial cabling — from the attic or basement of the building.
“This publication is a game-changer for broadband service providers and will ensure that customers, regardless of what type of property they reside in, are served equally when it comes to broadband connectivity,” said Broadband Forum Multi-Tenant FWA Project Stream Lead and Wistron NeWeb Corporation Senior Director of Technology Mike Talbert in a prepared statement about the fixed wireless report.
“By reusing the existing in-building infrastructure, multiple tenants can be served with one 5G FWA connection, and this specification promises more efficient use of 5G resources, simplified and unified management, and reduced operating costs for operators.”
A recent Parks Associates study showed that nearly one in five multifamily housing residents with home internet have access to gigabit or faster download speeds.
The study — included in the whitepaper “A Guide to Connectivity Innovations in Multifamily Housing” and completed in partnership with Cox Communities — examined different connectivity options available for multifamily properties, including legacy bulk and retail service, managed Wi-Fi, and instant activation.
