Nokia and U.S. Cellular test 5G technologies for fixed wireless

Press Release

• Companies used 28GHz spectrum and Nokia's commercially-available, 5G-ready AirScale radio platform
• Initial testing focused on fixed wireless access to showcase ultra-high speed, next-generation networks that meet the data-driven demands of U.S. Cellular's customers

Test underscores strength of Nokia's innovation in 5G technology and commitment to playing a leading role in the realization of 5G in North America

12 October 2016

Irving, TX and Chicago - Nokia and U.S. Cellular have collaborated to test 5G in North America and demonstrate 5G fixed wireless in both indoor and outdoor environments. As a result, the companies proved how a next-generation network can provide faster speeds and lower latency for U.S. Cellular's customers.

The 5G testing used 28GHz spectrum through an experimental license from the FCC and Nokia's commercially-available, 5G-ready AirScale radio platform to stream six simultaneous 4K ultra high-definition videos. For the outdoor testing, which was conducted at U.S. Cellular's technology center in Schaumburg, Ill., the team set up a point-to-point, clear line of sight scenario between a base station and user equipment. To test the impact of a real world environment, impairments such as dry wall, windows and metal panels were introduced, and testing was repeated by moving the base station and user equipment behind trees and foliage. The indoor testing was done in U.S. Cellular's lab. In both environments, the tests delivered speeds of 5Gbps and ultra-low latency under 2 milliseconds (ms) over the 5G wireless link.

Nokia and U.S. Cellular plan further network testing and collaboration towards the development of 5G standards.

Michael S. Irizarry, executive vice president and chief technology officer for U.S. Cellular, said: "We're excited with this successful 5G testing with Nokia conducted at 28GHz and have seen very promising results, including 5Gbps speed, ultra-low latency under 2 ms and multiple 4k video streams. We strive to provide our customers in the mid-sized and rural markets we serve with the latest technology that can enhance their lives or businesses. And we will continue to deliver a fast, high-quality network that works whenever and wherever our customers need it."