Wireless connectivity is constantly evolving, with new technologies and standards emerging all the time. One of the most exciting developments in recent years is CBRS, which stands for Citizens Broadband Radio Service. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at CBRS, its relevance for local LTE networks, and how it works.
What is CBRS?
CBRS is a new wireless frequency band that has been opened up for public use by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It operates in the 3.5 GHz spectrum and is designed to enable a range of wireless applications, from high-speed internet access to industrial automation.
HISTORY
The Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) was first introduced by the United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in 2015 as part of efforts to improve wireless connectivity in the country. The CBRS spectrum operates in the 3.5 GHz band and was previously used by government agencies for radar and other applications. In 2015, the FCC announced plans to open up this frequency band for shared access by private businesses, which led to the creation of the CBRS Alliance, a consortium of wireless industry leaders dedicated to promoting the use of CBRS technology. After several years of testing and refinement, the CBRS spectrum was finally made available for commercial use in 2020, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of wireless connectivity in the United States.
How is CBRS relevant for Local LTE?
For those interested in local LTE networks, CBRS is especially relevant. It provides an opportunity for businesses to create their own private LTE networks, which can be used to support a range of use cases, such as IoT applications, indoor and outdoor wireless connectivity, and more. Unlike traditional LTE networks, which are controlled by mobile network operators, private LTE networks give businesses more control over their wireless connectivity, enabling them to customize their networks to meet their specific needs.
How Does CBRS Work?
At a basic level, CBRS operates on a shared spectrum model, which means that multiple users can access the same frequency band at the same time without interference. This is made possible through the use of a Spectrum Access System (SAS), which dynamically manages the use of the CBRS spectrum. The SAS determines which frequencies are available for use and assigns them to devices based on their location and the level of demand for the spectrum in that area.
Why Do You Need CBRS?
CBRS represents a significant opportunity for businesses to create their own private LTE networks and enable a range of wireless applications. By using CBRS, businesses can create a secure and reliable wireless network that can support a range of applications, from IoT sensors to high-bandwidth video streaming. Unlike traditional LTE networks, which are subject to congestion and network downtime, private LTE networks using CBRS can provide a dedicated and secure wireless infrastructure that is customized to the specific needs of the business.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CBRS represents the future of private LTE networks, providing businesses with the opportunity to create their own wireless infrastructure and support a range of wireless applications. By understanding the basics of CBRS and related topics such as wireless networking and RF engineering, businesses can take advantage of this exciting new technology to create their own private LTE networks.
