CPM19-2: ASMG lunchtime seminar on mmWave spectrum for 5G

Saturday 23 Feb 2019 | Above 6 GHz | ASMG |

CPM19-2: ASMG lunchtime seminar on mmWave spectrum for 5G image

“If data is the new oil, the vision of IMT-2020 (5G) is our refinery. To do this we need different spectrum ranges for 5G and it is crucial to build on mid-band spectrum in the 3 GHz range with high-capacity mmWave.” (Noel Kirkaldy, Market Development MEA, Nokia Enterprise and GSA ASMG)

mmWave 5G has become reality.” (Dr. Abdulhadi AbouAlmal, Head of Section/ Technology and Spectrum, Etisalat International) 

The GSMA welcomed delegates from the Arab Spectrum Management Group (ASMG) to a lunchtime seminar at CPM19-2 to discuss mmWave spectrum for the future of 5G.

Speakers from the GSMA, GSA and Etisalat talked about how the right conditions for high-frequency 5G spectrum at WRC-19 can change how connectivity drives the region forward. The outcome of WRC-19 will decide how mobile can maximise benefit from mmWaves.

These frequencies are needed to offer the highest performance levels from 5G. Services and applications in areas such as fixed broadband, industrial automation, intelligent transport systems and virtual reality can take advantage of a step-change in data speeds and capacity through millimetre waves.

At the seminar, the GSMA also highlighted findings from its recently published report on the socio-economic benefits of mmWave 5G. In the MENA region, mmWave will create an increase of $15.4 billion in GDP by 2034. Professional and financial services contribute the most to GDP with 34%, followed by manufacturing and utilities at 29%.

The mobile industry is asking for the IMT identification of

  • 26 GHz (24.25-27.5 GHz);
  • 40 GHz (37-43.5 GHz);
  • 66-71 GHz – with flexibility to enable both IMT and non-IMT technologies.

Because of the large amount of spectrum required, 45.5-52.6 GHz must also be considered. IMT identification must also come with conditions that allow mobile operators to make the most of these bands. Optimal technical conditions must be applied to protect other services while unlocking the full potential of 5G.