Ericsson has unveiled a new triple-band, tri-sector radio that can take on the function of nine single-band radios at once.
Dubbed Radio 6646, the new device furthers Ericsson’s tri-sector products’ multi-band capabilities by combining 900, 800, and 700MHz frequency bands.
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The low-band spectrum capability will significantly boost both 5G coverage and mid-band (3.5GHz) performance in an energy-efficient way, according to Ericsson.
Radio 6646 also reduces energy consumption by 40% and site footprint by 60% in comparison to the firm’s triple-band single-sector radios. The enhancements translate to increased yearly energy savings, lower deployment costs, and a smaller carbon footprint.
“Ericsson’s new Radio 6646 will offer a highly compact and flexible solution to expand 5G coverage in a very cost-efficient manner while being economical and sustainable – the footprint and energy consumption achieved are something we believe will be a powerful driver for 5G, and we look forward to the first deployments in Spain,” said Vicente Abad, RAN technology and support manager at Telefonica Spain.
As for coverage, Radio 6646 can rooftops, towers, and indoor locations such as offices, basements, stores, and homes alike. The new radio also supports the 700MHz band, touted as one of the key spectrums for 5G Standalone deployments. When paired with mid-band TDD over Carrier Aggregation and 5G SA, the device vastly improves the capacity of 5G networks.
David Hammarwall, head of product area networks at Ericsson, said: “Our new energy-efficient radio uniquely combines spectrum capabilities in an easy-to-install form factor. This will simplify deployments and extend 5G coverage, starting in Europe. With this latest innovation, service providers can scale up 5G Standalone deployments with new applications for consumers, enterprises, and mission-critical communications.”
