New Delhi: In large buildings, malls, and offices, internet speeds can often be slowed down inside, even when there’s a strong 5G signal outside. This can be due to thick walls, floor design, and large numbers of people using the mobile network in a single space. To address this issue, Reliance Jio has launched 5G Pico Small Cell technology. It’s specifically designed to increase 5G coverage and network capacity in large indoor and multi-story buildings.
What is Jio Pico Small Cell?
Pico Small Cells can be thought of as a small 5G base station. They can be installed on the wall or roof of a building. Jio’s model is unique because it allows compact cells to be installed on different floors as needed. This allows additional 5G capacity to be provided on floors with higher network usage. Typically, a Distributed Antenna System (DAS) is used for indoor cellular coverage in large buildings. This can require significant cabling and infrastructure to deliver signals to different floors. Jio’s Pico Small Cell attempts to provide signals closer to the floor itself, which could make installation easier.
Peak download speeds of up to 1 Gbps
According to Jio, the Pico Small Cell supports peak download throughput of up to 1 Gbps and peak upload throughput of up to 75 Mbps in maximum configurations. It operates on the n78 5G band from 3.3 to 3.6 GHz and primarily supports 5G Standalone mode. It is compatible with 3GPP Release 17.
Less cabling and easier management
The Pico Small Cell incorporates baseband processing, radio transceiver, and RF front end into a single unit. It can be wall- or ceiling-mounted. Jio says its hyperlocal architecture reduces the need for long copper feeder cables used in traditional DAS. It features Element Management System (EMS) and Self-Organizing Network (SON) capabilities to manage units across multiple floors. According to Jio, its power amplifiers have an efficiency of at least 35 percent. Its energy-saving features can reduce power consumption by up to 20 percent during low network traffic.
Where will you get the benefit?
The new technology could be used in large corporate offices, malls, hospitals, campuses, and other multi-story buildings where a large number of people use the mobile network simultaneously. However, Jio has not yet provided a specific timeline for its commercial rollout.
