New 60GHz mmWave unlicensed band for gigabit fixed wireless access

This includes CCS’s EU type approved Metnet 60G 12Gbps 60GHz mmWave backhaul and access system. CCS’s Metnet 60G solution adheres to the relevant harmonised standards under 2014/53/EU on RED (Radio Equipment Directive). This, together with the existing FCC radio type approval, enables Metnet 60G to be deployed across multiple countries where the use of unlicensed 60GHz is allowed.

CEPT ECC recently set out its new recommendations for Short Range Devices (SRD), lighting a path for European regulators to adopt updated standards to enable the usage of unlicensed 60GHz beamforming technology in fixed outdoor environments.

The ERC recommendation 70-03 – published in June 2019 – supports the use of wireless systems operating between 57-71GHz with a maximum output power of 40dBm EIRP. These recommendations also align with Ofcom 60GHz standards (as detailed in IR2030, updated in November 2018), and FCC Part 15.255, which were updated in July 2016 as part of the Spectrum Frontiers order to open up new licensed and unlicensed mmWave spectrum for 5G technology.

CCS Executive Chairman Martin Harriman commented: “The global movement to open up the unlicensed 60GHz band is removing license barriers and creating a significant opportunity for both established mobile operators and new broadband service providers in Gigabit Fixed Wireless Access applications – an opportunity that our CCS Metnet 60G solution is optimally placed to enable.”

The new unlicensed mmWave band harnesses much wider channels to deliver multi-gigabit services which are comparable to fibre connectivity, but at a much lower cost and faster deployment time, offering exciting potential for a range of new Gigabit Fixed Wireless Access applications.

Up to 14GHz of spectrum between 57 to 71GHz is available together with 2GHz channels each supporting over 3Gbps of throughput. The updated regulations also allow the opportunity to support electronic beamforming antennas, significantly reducing the installation time. Traditionally mmWave point-to-point links require multiple high gain directional antennas which require precise alignment.

The EU type approved CCS Metnet ultra-high capacity 60G product solution consists of 12Gbps multi radio mesh nodes with an all-round multi-radio view, and 1Gbps CPEs to deliver an unrivalled hybrid backhaul and Gigabit fixed wireless access (FWA) solution. Metnet 60G nodes and CPEs connect autonomously to form a flexible mesh network that runs CCS's advanced self-organising and self-healing SDN software.