Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) and Ericsson have successfully trialled what is known in the industry as a Multi-band Booster solution, which combines the best characteristics of the traditional microwave (6-42 GHz) and E-band (70/80 GHz) band frequencies to boost the capacity, reach and coverage of the 5G network.
Head of Ericsson Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh David Hägerbro said: “The success of this live test, that was done on a congested site, shows that the DNB 5G network is ready with advanced 5G solutions that will open up new services for both consumers and enterprises, even in rural areas. This will accelerate the digitalization journey for enterprises while allowing the digital divide to be bridged even faster.”
The Multi-band Booster solution combines the high availability of the lower frequency microwave bands with the high capacity of the E-band, which then can be used over much longer distances and wider geographical areas; significantly extending reach and boosting the overall network capacity.
The combination of the high data throughput, low latency coverage, reliability and simplified outdoor deployment enabled by the Multi-band Booster solution make it suitable for applications like fixed wireless access and requirements introduced by 5G Advanced.
It will also enhance the amount of data that can be transmitted between cell towers and Mobile Network Operator cores (the backhaul connectivity) in the network. The solution claims to allow 5G and 5G Advanced services to be introduced faster for the benefit of consumers, in rural and underserved communities.
For enterprise users, the solution can be used to connect different sites within enterprise networks with high capacity and minimum indoor footprint, without having to wait for fiber to be available, which will expedite their digitalization journey.