3.6 GHz commercial radio Vs. 6 GHz concept radio | Key differences explained

3.6 GHz commercial radio

• The frequency falls within C band spectrum (i.e. 3.3 to 4.2 GHz)
• The band is used for commercial 5G deployments and supported by 5G NR equipments.
• Offers balance between coverage range and capacity.
• Use case : eMBB , FWA

6 GHz concept radio

• The frequency falls in 5.925 to 7.125 GHz band which is considered as “concept band” for future wireless technologies such as 5G advanced and 6G.
• Used in wifi 6E (unlicensed spectrum), planned to be used in mobile networks as licensed bands. Under trial for mobile telecom use.
• Promises higher capacity and faster data rates but with shorter range
• Ecosystem and regulations are still evolving.

Key differences

Following are the specifications of base stations used in both of these radio systems.

Feature	3.6 GHz commercial radio	6 GHz concept radio
Frequency range	3640 to 3700 MHz	7000 to 7060 MHz
Tx/Rx channel	64	128
Antenna Elements	192	768
Antenna Gain	24.5 dBi	30 dBi

Conclusion

The 3.6 GHz band is a cornerstone of current 5G deployments, offering a balance between coverage and capacity. In contrast, the 6 GHz band is under consideration for future 5G Advanced and 6G networks, promising higher data rates but requiring denser infrastructure due to its shorter range.

Continue Learning Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) & Professional Mobile Radio

• DMR Radio Basics Tutorial
• DMR Tier 1 vs Tier 2 vs Tier 3: Understanding the Differences
• DMR vs dPMR Comparison
• NXDN vs DMR Comparison
• Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) Interview Questions and Answers

Explore More Radio Technologies & Standards

• TETRA Radio System Tutorial
• LITRA (LTE Integrated Trunked Radio) Explained
• OpenSky Radio System Basics
• Public Safety Radio Frequencies (USA)
• Two-Way Radio Headsets Basics
• Understanding CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service)
• Commercial and Concept Radio Systems
• PMR446 Radio Frequency Channels

Explore Broadcasting, AM/FM & Ham Radio

• Regular FM Radio Broadcasting Basics
• HD Radio Technology & AM/FM Spectrum Explained
• Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM)
• IBOC Basics (In-Band On-Channel Digital Radio)
• Radio Broadcasting: Advantages & Disadvantages
• Analog vs Digital Radio
• Amateur Radio Bands and Frequencies
• Ham Radio: Advantages & Disadvantages
• Internet Radio: Advantages & Disadvantages