CommScope has introduced new antenna models that support 4xMIMO (4T4R multiple input/multiple output), advanced modulation and carrier aggregation of unlicensed frequency bands. The combination of multiple data streams and additional spectrum will help wireless operators reach Gigabit LTE speeds on the road to 5G.
In late 2017, CommScope released a 4x4 MIMO antenna to cover the frequency band from 1400 to 2700 MHz. The RRZZ-65B antenna. The antenna is available now and is ideal for 5G Applications. The ultra-wideband antenna RRZZ-65B can support one or two antenna arrays from 1427 to 2690 MHz, a high band range no other antenna can match. It can also support a low frequency band range from 694 to 960 MHz. The RRZZ-65B supports 4T4R operation, meaning four beams of transmit and receive signals, in both the low and high band ranges, as well as frequency division duplex (FDD) and time division duplex (TDD). Operators can combine on one antenna the supplemental downlink band of 1400 MHz as well the primary band. It can also be used in conjunction with external filters to separate different licensed bands as needed, such as the 2300 TDD band, making it easier to customize for specific needs.
CommScope has also released an extensive portfolio of base station antennas that support the full range of FirstNet site configurations. Band 14 is the slice of licensed spectrum in the 700 MHz frequency band that will be used for FirstNet. CommScope’s FirstNet antenna portfolio includes several models that support Band 14. The company continues to add antennas to its portfolio that support different frequency band combinations in 4-, 8- and 12-port configurations, with 4xMIMO support on both low and high bands.
CommScope also provides a high gain, 10-port small cell antenna - VVSSP-360S-F - with 4xMIMO functionality in the 1.7 - 2.7 GHz and 3.5 GHz bands, plus 2x2 MIMO support in the 5 GHz band. With this antenna, operators can use carrier aggregation for License Assisted Access (LAA) to combine unlicensed bands with licensed bands to reach gigabit speeds at small cell sites. This antenna will also help operators be ready for Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS).
Sector splitting, narrowbeam antennas and LTE-Advanced interference mitigation techniques are also part of the Gigabit LTE toolkit. Antennas are also evolving to support multi-user MIMO and massive MIMO with eight or more data streams. CommScope will display its latest antenna technology at Mobile World Congress 2018.
