Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and ZTE announced the world’s fastest 5G mmWave standalone (SA) data connection, achieving impressive results in two scenarios: nearly 7 Gbps peak rate for downlink and 2.1 Gbps for uplink. 5G SA mmWave allows for the deployment of 5G mmWave networks and devices without using an anchor on LTE or sub-6 GHz spectrum. This gives operators more flexibility to deliver wireless fiber broadband access with multi-Gigabit speeds and ultra-low latency to residential and commercial customers. Use of mmWave SA without an anchor also enables green field fixed wireless access deployments for all use-cases.
Under the technical guidance of China’s IMT-2020 (5G) Promotion Group, Qualcomm Technologies and ZTE accomplished nearly 7 Gbps downlink peak rate achievement over 5G SA mmWave in the 26 GHz band (n258), supported by a DDDSU frame structure. The companies achieved the 2.1 Gbps uplink utilizing a DSUUU frame structure. The milestones were achieved on the Snapdragon® X70 5G Modem-RF System Mobile Test Platform connected to ZTE’s infrastructure in ZTE’s Shanghai lab, across 4 x 200 MHz downlink and 2 x 200 MHz uplink bandwidths.
“We’re proud to collaborate with ZTE on this milestone, a significant next step in the evolution and upcoming commercialization of 5G SA mmWave,” said Durga Malladi, senior vice president and general manager, cellular modems and infrastructure, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “This demonstration highlights the potential for wireless fiber to power enhanced consumer experiences and facilitate digital transformation—with faster peak speeds, more available connections, lower latency and higher throughput.”