Cambium Networks and Cal.net Announce Advanced 6 GHz Fixed Wireless Broadband Network for Underserved Locations

Rhea-AI Summary

Cambium Networks (NASDAQ: CMBM) and Cal.net have announced the deployment of a 6 GHz fixed wireless access (FWA) network following recent FCC approval for outdoor use of 6 GHz spectrum. This deployment aims to deliver reliable, high-speed internet to underserved communities. The 6 GHz spectrum offers 850 MHz of clean spectrum in the US, addressing congestion in the 5 GHz band.

Cambium's ePMP 4600 platform supports the entire 6 GHz spectrum, providing scalable, high-capacity solutions. It can support up to 120 subscribers per sector with capacities of up to 4 Gbps per sector. Cal.net will use this technology to deliver gigabit speeds over the air at a low cost, making high-speed internet more accessible across their California service territory.

Positive

• Deployment of 6 GHz fixed wireless access network to deliver high-speed internet to underserved communities
• ePMP 4600 platform supports up to 120 subscribers per sector with capacities of up to 4 Gbps per sector
• Potential for increased market reach and customer base in underserved areas
• Collaboration with Cal.net expands Cambium's presence in the California market

Negative

• None.

Insights

Technology Analyst

The deployment of a 6 GHz fixed wireless access (FWA) network by Cambium Networks and Cal.net is a significant technological advancement in the broadband industry. This move leverages the recently approved 6 GHz spectrum for outdoor use, offering 850 MHz of clean spectrum in the US and 950 MHz in Canada.

The ePMP 4600 platform's capabilities are impressive:

• Support for up to 120 subscribers per sector
• MU-MIMO and beamforming technologies
• Capacities of up to 4 Gbps per sector
• Scalability for both rural and suburban areas

The platform's use of 802.11ax chipsets with enhancements for fixed wireless access is a smart move, leveraging economies of scale while tailoring the technology for specific use cases. The implementation of OFDMA and TDD synchronization for noise isolation and interference mitigation is particularly noteworthy, as these features are important for maintaining service quality in potentially crowded spectrum environments.

From a technical standpoint, this deployment has the potential to revolutionize rural broadband access. The ability to deliver gigabit speeds over the air at a low cost could significantly reduce the infrastructure gap between urban and rural areas. However, the real-world performance and scalability of this technology will need to be closely monitored as it's deployed more widely.

Telecommunications Market Analyst

The collaboration between Cambium Networks and Cal.net to deploy a 6 GHz FWA network is a strategic move that could reshape the competitive landscape in the broadband market, particularly in underserved areas. This initiative addresses several key market trends:

• Increasing demand for high-speed internet in rural and suburban areas
• The push for more cost-effective broadband solutions
• The need to alleviate congestion in the 5 GHz spectrum

The market implications of this deployment are significant. By offering gigabit speeds at a lower cost than traditional fiber installations, Cambium and Cal.net could potentially disrupt the rural broadband market. This could put pressure on incumbent providers and potentially accelerate the closure of the digital divide.

For Cambium Networks (NASDAQ: CMBM), this deployment could serve as a showcase for their technology, potentially leading to increased market share and revenue growth. The company's focus on scalable, high-capacity solutions at affordable prices positions them well in the expanding FWA market.

Cal.net's extensive network footprint in California provides an excellent testing ground for this technology. If successful, we could see similar deployments across other regions, potentially reshaping the rural ISP landscape. However, investors should monitor the rollout closely, paying attention to adoption rates, customer satisfaction and any technical challenges that may arise during large-scale deployment.

Regulatory Affairs Specialist

The FCC's approval of the 6 GHz spectrum for outdoor use represents a significant regulatory shift in the telecommunications landscape. This decision opens up new possibilities for broadband deployment, particularly in underserved areas. Key regulatory aspects to consider:

• The allocation of 850 MHz of spectrum in the US (950 MHz in Canada) for both Wi-Fi and FWA outdoor use
• Potential for reduced regulatory barriers to broadband deployment in rural areas
• Implications for spectrum management and interference mitigation

This regulatory change aligns with the broader policy goal of bridging the digital divide, a priority for both federal and state governments. The Cal.net deployment in California serves as a test case for how this new spectrum can be utilized effectively.

However, as with any new spectrum allocation, there may be unforeseen challenges. Regulators will likely monitor this deployment closely to ensure that the use of 6 GHz spectrum doesn't interfere with existing users and that it delivers on the promise of improved broadband access.

For investors, it's important to note that this regulatory change could create new opportunities in the wireless infrastructure and equipment markets. Companies that can quickly and effectively leverage this new spectrum may gain a competitive advantage. However, the long-term regulatory landscape remains uncertain and future adjustments to spectrum policy could impact the viability of these investments.

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., Aug. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Cambium Networks (NASDAQ: CMBM), a leading provider of wireless and wired networking solutions, and Cal.net, a premier provider of TV, Phone, and High-Speed Broadband services throughout the Central Valley and rural Northern California, today announced the deployment of a 6 GHz fixed wireless access (FWA) network following the recent approval by the United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for outdoor use of 6 GHz spectrum. This deployment marks a significant milestone in delivering reliable, high-speed internet to underserved communities.

The 6 GHz spectrum, now approved for both Wi-Fi and FWA outdoor use by the FCC and Canadian ISED, addresses the congestion in the 5 GHz spectrum by offering a substantial amount of clean spectrum—850 MHz in the US and 950 MHz in Canada. This new spectrum will be critical for service providers and private network operators aiming to enhance customer experiences and deliver faster speeds while minimizing capital investment.

Morgan Kurk, CEO of Cambium Networks, emphasized the importance of this deployment,  "The opening of 6 GHz spectrum for fixed wireless access is a game-changer for the broadband industry and consumers. Our ePMP 4600 platform, which supports the entire 6 GHz spectrum, is designed to provide scalable, high-capacity solutions that are both affordable and reliable. This technology will enable service providers like Cal.net to deliver gigabit speeds over the air at a low cost, making high-speed internet accessible to more communities."

ePMP 4600, the latest in Cambium's ePMP platform, leverages over a decade of proven, scalable technology. With support for up to 120 subscribers per sector, MU-MIMO and beamforming capabilities, and capacities of up to 4 Gbps per sector, ePMP 4600 allows operators to deliver services in both low-density rural and high-density suburban areas with a low total cost of ownership.

ePMP 4600 platform differentiators:

• Scalability and interference mitigation based on its unique air interface.
• Proven air-interface offering scalability and performance with ePMP features such as TDD synchronization, SmartQoS, air fairness and frame optimization. ePMP leverages 802.11ax chipsets for economies of scale with significant enhancements tailored to fixed wireless access.
• Noise isolation with orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA), multi-user multiple-input, multiple-output (MU-MIMO) in both the uplink and downlink directions on the short-term roadmap, and TDD synchronization.

ePMP 6 GHz Force 4625 Fixed Wireless Subscriber Module
The Force 4600 Series of Subscriber Module (SMs) are available in two form factors: Force 4600C connectorized and Force 4625 with integrated antenna.

Jack Barker, CEO of Cal.net, shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration, "At Cal.net, we are dedicated to bridging the digital divide throughout our California service territory. The deployment of Cambium Networks' 6 GHz technology will enable us to provide reliable, high-speed broadband to underserved regions throughout the Central Valley and Sierra Foothills. This initiative enhances connectivity for homes and businesses and supports critical sectors, such as healthcare and agriculture."

Mr. Barker continued, "With a network footprint stretching from Bakersfield to Redding, Cal.net is uniquely positioned to rapidly and widely deploy the new 6 GHz technology. This deployment aligns with Cal.net's mission to close the digital divide by providing affordable, reliable internet access at future-proof speeds aligned with modern consumption habits and promoting digital literacy throughout the underserved communities in our service territory."

The collaboration between Cambium Networks and Cal.net represents a significant step forward in advancing wireless communications. By leveraging the newly available 6 GHz spectrum, both companies are committed to improving the lives of individuals and businesses in underserved communities through innovative technology solutions.

About Cambium Networks
Cambium Networks enables service providers, enterprises, industrial organizations, and governments to deliver exceptional digital experiences and device connectivity with compelling economics. Our ONE Network platform simplifies management of Cambium's wired and wireless broadband and network edge technologies, allowing customers to focus more on managing their business rather than the network. We make connectivity that just works.

About Cal.net
Cal.net is a leading hybrid fiber and wireless internet provider in rural California, providing reliable and affordable high-speed broadband service to underserved communities. With a commitment to customer satisfaction and innovation, the company is dedicated to partnering with communities, understanding their problems, and applying timely and affordable solutions.

For more information, please contact:

Media Contact:
pr@cambiumnetworks.com 

Cal.net:
Amy Davidson
Chief Marketing Officer
adavidson@corp.cal.net

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SOURCE Cambium Networks

FAQ

What is the significance of Cambium Networks' 6 GHz fixed wireless access network deployment?

The deployment of Cambium Networks' 6 GHz fixed wireless access network is significant as it aims to deliver reliable, high-speed internet to underserved communities, utilizing the newly approved 6 GHz spectrum to address congestion in the 5 GHz band and offer improved connectivity solutions.

What are the key features of Cambium Networks' ePMP 4600 platform for 6 GHz FWA?

Cambium Networks' ePMP 4600 platform supports the entire 6 GHz spectrum, offers scalable high-capacity solutions, can support up to 120 subscribers per sector, and provides capacities of up to 4 Gbps per sector. It also features MU-MIMO and beamforming capabilities.

How will the partnership between Cambium Networks (CMBM) and Cal.net benefit underserved areas?

The partnership will enable Cal.net to use Cambium's 6 GHz technology to provide reliable, high-speed broadband to underserved regions throughout the Central Valley and Sierra Foothills in California. This will enhance connectivity for homes and businesses and support critical sectors such as healthcare and agriculture.

What is the coverage area for Cal.net's deployment of Cambium Networks' (CMBM) 6 GHz technology?

Cal.net's network footprint for deploying Cambium Networks' 6 GHz technology stretches from Bakersfield to Redding in California, covering the Central Valley and rural Northern California regions.