What is 5G Spectrum?

5G spectrum refers to the radio frequencies allocated for the fifth generation of mobile networks. These frequencies enable faster data transmission, lower latency, and increased connectivity compared to previous generations of mobile networks. The allocation and management of 5G spectrum are crucial for the successful deployment and operation of 5G networks.

Frequency Bands

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has identified several frequency bands for 5G networks, which are categorized into three main ranges:

• Low-band (sub-1 GHz): These frequencies offer wide coverage but lower data speeds compared to higher bands. In India, the 700 MHz band is considered suitable for 5G low-band deployment.
• Mid-band (1-6 GHz): Mid-band frequencies provide a balance between coverage and capacity, making them ideal for 5G networks. In India, the 3.3-3.6 GHz band has been identified for 5G services.
• High-band (above 6 GHz): Also known as millimeter wave (mmWave), these frequencies offer high data speeds but limited coverage. In India, the 26 GHz and 28 GHz bands have been earmarked for 5G high-band services.

Spectrum Allocation in India

The government has taken several steps to allocate and manage 5G spectrum in the country. In 2018, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) released the National Digital Communications Policy, which outlined the roadmap for 5G deployment in India.

In 2021, the DoT announced the auction of 5G spectrum in various bands, including 700 MHz, 3.3-3.6 GHz, and 26 GHz. The auction was conducted in March 2021, with Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea emerging as the major winners.

5G Spectrum Pricing

The pricing of 5G spectrum has been a contentious issue in India, with telecom operators expressing concerns over the high reserve prices set by the government. In 2019, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) recommended a base price of Rs 492 crore per MHz for the 3.5 GHz band, which was considered too high by industry stakeholders.

In response to these concerns, the DoT reduced the reserve prices for the 700 MHz and 3.3-3.6 GHz bands by 38% and 36%, respectively, ahead of the 2021 spectrum auction. This decision was welcomed by telecom operators, as it made the acquisition of 5G spectrum more affordable.

Global 5G Spectrum Harmonization

The harmonization of 5G spectrum across countries is essential for the seamless operation of 5G networks and devices. The ITU plays a crucial role in coordinating the global allocation of 5G spectrum and ensuring harmonization across regions.

In 2019, the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-19) identified and allocated several frequency bands for 5G services globally, including the 26 GHz, 40 GHz, and 66 GHz bands. This decision paved the way for the global deployment of 5G networks and the development of 5G ecosystems.

5G Spectrum and Satellite Services

The allocation of 5G spectrum has raised concerns about potential interference with existing satellite services. In particular, the 26 GHz band, which is being considered for 5G high-band services, is also used by Earth observation satellites and weather forecasting systems.

To address these concerns, the ITU and national regulators have been working on developing guidelines and technical solutions to ensure the coexistence of 5G and satellite services in the same frequency bands. This includes the implementation of exclusion zones around satellite earth stations and the use of advanced interference mitigation techniques.

5G Spectrum and Industry 4.0

The availability of 5G spectrum is crucial for the realization of Industry 4.0, which refers to the digital transformation of manufacturing and related industries. 5G networks enable the deployment of advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics in industrial settings.

In India, the government has recognized the potential of 5G in driving Industry 4.0 and has launched several initiatives to promote its adoption. These include the establishment of 5G test beds, the development of 5G use cases for various industries, and the creation of a conducive regulatory environment for 5G deployment.