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Wireless That Just Works

Collaboration Aims to Increase Access to Affordable High-Speed Broadband in Underserved Communities Benefitting Over 440,000 Households

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., Aug. 29, 2024 – Cambium Networks (NASDAQ: CMBM), a leading global provider of wireless and wired networking solutions, today announced a strategic collaboration with QUILT, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, NODE Networks, TMA Technology Solutions, and ComEd to enhance digital equity in underserved communities across Chicago as part of QUILT’s Broadband Access for Brighter Futures Program. The program will deploy a 401-mile fiber network across Cook County and the South Side and West Side of Chicago, incorporating 30 strategic interconnection points and additional fiber capacity construction.

ComEd will provide access to its extensive middle-mile infrastructure benefiting 24 communities and over 440,000 households. NODE Networks will utilize this infrastructure to deliver last-mile connectivity, leveraging Cambium Networks’ cnWave 60 GHz, Enterprise Wi-Fi, cnMatrix Ethernet Switches and XGS PON to create a hybrid-fiber solution. This approach aims to reduce deployment costs, expedite implementation, and significantly close the digital divide.

This team effort highlights the transformative power of strategic partnerships in addressing critical infrastructure needs and promoting digital inclusion. By leveraging the combined strengths of Cambium Networks, ComEd, QUILT, and NODE Networks, this project is set to make a lasting impact on Chicago’s digital landscape.

“This initiative is a testament to our core corporate values and commitment to ensuring every community has access to reliable, high-speed internet,” said Morgan Kurk, President and CEO of Cambium Networks. “By partnering with QUILT, NODE Networks, and leveraging ComEd’s infrastructure, we are poised to deliver cutting-edge connectivity solutions that will drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for thousands of families.”

“Digital equity is not just about access to the internet; it’s about access to opportunities. This initiative is a crucial step towards leveling the playing field for underserved communities in Chicago,” said Dwayne Douglas, CEO of QUILT. “By working together with Cambium Networks, NODE Networks, and leveraging ComEd’s infrastructure, we are laying the groundwork for a future where every resident has the tools they need to thrive in a digital world.”

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The project will leverage 401 miles of fiber, covering key regions in Chicago and Cook County. This network will include 30 interconnection points, facilitating robust and scalable broadband services. ComEd’s infrastructure enables affordable middle-mile connectivity, while NODE Networks’ expertise in last-mile solutions, powered by Cambium Networks’ supports fast and efficient deployment.

Cambium Networks’ technology will provide a cost-effective hybrid-fiber solution that enhances network performance and reliability. This technology is designed to support high-speed broadband, making it possible to deliver seamless digital experiences in previously underserved areas.

With Cambium’s ONE Network solution, all network elements are deployed and managed from a single platform. cnMaestro™ Network Management offers a cohesive and efficient management experience for Cambium’s ONE Network and includes multi-tenancy to enable managed service providers to scale across many customers.

About Broadband Access for Brighter Futures

Broadband Access for Brighter Futures is a community-driven initiative aimed at closing the digital divide in Chicago’s most underserved neighborhoods. By leveraging strategic partnerships and innovative technology solutions, the initiative focuses on delivering affordable, high-speed broadband access to over 440,000 households across 24 communities. The project not only enhances connectivity but also integrates digital literacy and workforce development programs, empowering residents to thrive in a digital world. Broadband Access for Brighter Futures represents a comprehensive approach to digital equity, combining infrastructure development with education and community engagement to create sustainable, long-term benefits.

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 QUILT

QUILT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the digital divide in underserved communities. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and community engagement, QUILT works to provide equitable access to technology, broadband connectivity, digital literacy, and workforce development training. QUILT’s mission is to empower individuals and families by enhancing their access to educational, economic, and social opportunities in the digital age.

About NODE Networks

NODE Networks provides communications infrastructure services, including fiber and bandwidth connectivity, colocation, and cloud infrastructure. Focused on underserved communities, NODE Networks offers scalable broadband solutions to help close the digital divide. The company’s expertise in last-mile connectivity and innovative technologies ensures reliable, affordable internet access, supporting digital inclusion and community empowerment.

About TMA Technology Solutions

TMA Technology Solutions is a provider of cutting-edge business technology solutions and services.  We encompass more than 30 years of experience in the industry offering reliable, dependable and scalable solutions for businesses of all sizes. TMA serves clients at every level of their organization, in a multitude of capacities where we can be most useful, whether as a trusted advisor to top management or as a hands-on coach for front line employees. For every engagement, we assemble a team with the most appropriate experience and expertise.

About ComEd

ComEd is a unit of Chicago-based Exelon Corporation (NASDAQ: EXC), a Fortune 200 energy company with approximately 10 million electricity and natural gas customers – the largest number of customers in the U.S. ComEd powers the lives of more than 4 million customers across northern Illinois, or 70 percent of the state’s population.

For more information, please contact:

Media Contact:

pr@cambiumnetworks.com

As the Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) face increased competition from fiber, LEO satellites, and mobile operators, they must build a better network with improved speed, capacity, and quality to maintain and grow their customer base. At Cambium Networks, we understand the challenges WISPs face. That’s why our advanced network solutions are uniquely designed for reliable, higher bandwidth packages that are still affordable.

By leveraging our state-of-the-art technology, WISPs can significantly increase their network capacity. Our solutions—from fixed wireless broadband to advanced Wi-Fi 6/6E and Wi-Fi 7 access points—are engineered to maximize efficiency, enabling top-tier service without compromising on performance or cost-effectiveness.

What does more bandwidth really mean for the network operator? High-capacity networks result in happier customers and fewer support calls which reduces churn and drives growth. With Cambium Networks, every WISP can expand their service offerings, attract new subscribers, and cost effectively ensure customer satisfaction with a network that just works.

This October at WISPAPALOOZA in Las Vegas, I will present Cambium’s vision for Point-to-Multipoint networking and talk about how to evolve. I hope to see everyone there and look forward to discussing about how Cambium can help unlock new profitable growth.

At Cambium Networks, we’re focused on empowering operators with the tools they need to optimize their networks. Our cnHeat RF planning tool has been an industry leader, helping WISPs identify the best locations for customer installations. Today, I’m excited to introduce the latest addition to our toolkit: the Tower Eval feature—a game-changer for anyone involved in tower site planning.

Why Tower Eval?

The process of planning and deploying new tower sites is a critical yet challenging task for network operators. Determining the most effective location for a new tower can make the difference between a robust, efficient network and one that struggles to meet demand. However, traditional methods of site evaluation can be time-consuming and costly. This is where Tower Eval comes in.

With Tower Eval, operators now have a convenient and economical way to test various “what-if” scenarios before committing to a new tower site. Whether you’re looking to expand coverage, optimize performance, or simply to explore potential sites, Tower Eval provides the flexibility and speed you need to make informed decisions.

Two Flexible Options for Your Planning Needs

Tower Eval is available in two SKU options, tailored to meet different planning requirements:

  1. 30-Day Moveable Site
    • Ideal for operators needing to perform extensive planning in a short period, this option allows unlimited site moves within a 30-day window. You can explore as many locations as necessary, with the cost of planning known upfront, making it a perfect choice for rapid, intensive planning sessions.
  2. 10-Pack of Fixed Sites
    • For operators who need to plan over longer periods, this option offers 10 credits for fixed sites. You can deploy test locations as needed, and each site remains active for 30 days once placed. This option is excellent for more sporadic planning activities, where each credit can be used at your own pace.

Faster Predictions with Some Tradeoffs

One of the most significant advancements with the Tower Eval feature is the drastically reduced prediction time. Previously, cnHeat predictions could take 2-4 hours, but with Tower Eval, you can get results in about 15 minutes. This speed allows for quick iterations and faster decision-making, but it does come with some tradeoffs:

  • Resolution drops from 1m to 2m.
  • Users must define a static customer install height, as opposed to the automated height calculations from 0ft to 80ft available in regular cnHeat.
  • Only one prediction can be run at a time, so new predictions overwrite the previous ones.

While these limitations might not be ideal for every scenario, they offer a practical balance for operators focused on quickly testing and validating potential tower sites.

Specific Considerations for Tower Eval Sites

It’s important to note that Tower Eval sites are theoretical or “what-if” sites. They are designed for planning purposes and do not integrate into your network like regular cnHeat sites. Here are some specific considerations:

  • Access Control: By default, predictions are visible only to Admin and Read/Write users. You can modify this in the project configuration, but Read-only users will not have access initially.
  • Feature Limitations: Tower Eval sites are not eligible for the Embed feature or BDC exports, making them strictly for internal planning and evaluation purposes.

Enhanced Planning Tools with the Latest Release

In addition to the Tower Eval feature, we’ve made several improvements to make your planning experience even smoother with cnHeat:

  • Click-to-Define Locations: You can now simply click on the map to set your tower site and radio locations, eliminating the need to manually enter Latitude/Longitude coordinates.
  • Visual Movement Boundaries: If a 100m boundary limits movement, it will be shown on-screen, ensuring you know exactly where your limits are.
  • Site and Radio Updates: When moving a tower site, you’ll receive a prompt asking if attached radios should also be updated, streamlining the relocation process.
  • Cloning and Terminating Sites: Tower Eval sites can be cloned, allowing you to duplicate deployment parameters easily. Additionally, sites no longer needed can be terminated to keep your project uncluttered.

Conclusion

The Tower Eval feature is more than just a new tool—it’s a powerful ally in your network planning toolkit. By enabling fast, flexible, and cost-effective site evaluations, it helps you stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving industry. Whether you’re a seasoned WISP or just getting started with network planning, Tower Eval provides the insights and agility you need to make confident decisions.

We’re excited to see how you’ll use Tower Eval to innovate and optimize your networks. Let’s explore the possibilities together!

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In today’s hyper-connected world, seamless Wi-Fi access is not a luxury, it is a necessity. Managing access for large numbers and a diverse range of users and devices can be a time-consuming task for IT administrators. Cambium Networks’ EasyPass is designed specifically to address these challenges of scale and simplicity with a comprehensive set of Wi-Fi onboarding options for all kinds of clients.

With a range of portal-based and portal-less options using common settings, admins have the flexibility to select the best methods based on the needs of their business, with controls over authentication, security, user experience, access limits, bandwidth, and more.

Effortless Onboarding

EasyPass is designed to reduce the complexity of traditional Wi-Fi onboarding methods. A variety of portal and access types are available depending on the level of authentication and security desired. With EasyPass, users can connect to the network with a minimum number of clicks to ensure a frustration-free experience.

The beauty of EasyPass lies in its versatility. Let’s explore various use cases and the EasyPass options suitable for each scenario.

*Portals marked with X require a cnMaestro X account


Now, let’s explore each portal in detail to understand how they contribute to a seamless user experience.

ePSK:

Cambium Networks’ ePSK technology provides personalized security for users and devices connecting to a Wi-Fi network. A unique security credential – the ePSK – is generated for each user accessing the network. The ePSK can be used for one or more of the user’s devices. This differs from the standard Wi-Fi PSK which is shared across all users on a Wi-Fi network.

Cambium’s ePSK scales to support small to very large deployments as follows:

  • ePSK with cnMaestro Essentials management: 300 ePSKs per system
  • ePSK with cnMaestro X management: 2000 ePSKs per system
  • ePSK with RADIUS: 50,000 ePSKs per system

ePSK is ideal for BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) use cases where individualized security but simplicity is important. It is also the preferred method for connecting IoT (Internet of Things) devices where simplicity and scale are key considerations.  ePSK minimizes security risks while enabling faster deployment time compared to other Wi-Fi security access methods.


Self-Registration

Guests who visit your location for a short period of time and want quick access to your network can use the Self-registration portal option. With Self registration, users can be prompted to enter a sponsor email account who approves their access to the internet.

Administrators can also choose to let users self-register and have their passwords delivered directly to their phone or email. This lets users quickly connect to the network while giving sponsors visibility over who is accessing the network.


Sponsored Guest

With sponsored guest access, you can allow your employees to share internet access with business visitors. This eliminates IT intervention while maintaining security over network access. A user can simply provide their email address and their sponsor’s email address (with company domain) to approve their access to the network.


Voucher

Voucher-based access uses simple voucher codes which EasyPass creates and manages. Vouchers can be configured by duration, data rate limits and number of devices allowed to allow granular control and enable potential monetization of the network.


One-Click

One-Click is the simplest access method and is typically used in public Wi-Fi networks. Users connect with just one click to the Wi-Fi network by agreeing to terms and conditions. Company information, notifications or advertisements can be included as part of the connection process.


Microsoft Azure and Google Login

Customers who use the Microsoft and/or Google ecosystems for applications, storage, etc. can integrate Wi-Fi access with the authentication systems used by Microsoft and Google. With the EasyPass Microsoft Azure and Google Login portals, a single sign-on (SSO) experience is achieved. A single login provides both Wi-Fi and application access, significantly simplifying the connection process.


Paid

With EasyPass Paid Wi-Fi portals, hotels, event venues, and similar organizations can monetize Wi-Fi access with a paid option for customers. Integration with different payment gateway options eliminates the need for hotel staff or IT administration to manage vouchers or codes to deliver Internet access.


Personal Wi-Fi

Personal Wi-Fi is a unique solution that provides personalized secure internet access in public network environments like multi-dwelling units (MDU), senior living, retail and public venues. Each user operates on their own secure Wi-Fi network with unique security credentials. Seamless roaming with security is supported across the entire property.


Wi-Fi for EU: 

EasyPass streamlines user onboarding for WiFi4EU networks. WiFi4EU is a free Wi-Fi service for visitors in public spaces promoted by the European Commission. With a simple guest portal, EasyPass WiFi4EU enables users to easily connect to a public Wi-Fi network pending compliance with WiFi4EU regulations.


Combination Access Options:

EasyPass provides the ability to combine portal and access options, such as Voucher + Paid or One-Click + Paid, enabling additional flexibility in creating solutions to meet different user requirements.

Summary

Cambium Networks’ EasyPass is a game-changer for network onboarding, greatly simplifying the Wi-Fi access challenge for both end users and IT administration. A wide variety of options enable solutions ranging from simple one-click guest access to single sign-on integration with Microsoft and Google ecosystems, to personalized access for residents in MDU apartments. EasyPass operates as part of cnMaestro, a single console solution for managing Cambium’s ONE Network for Enterprise. It empowers IT administrators and Network Operators to deploy and maintain networks effortlessly, ensuring they get the most value out of their network.

Note: Some EasyPass features like Azure, Google and Social login are only available in cnMaestro cloud, not in the on-premises versions.

Watch a replay of our webinar on how to simplify secure Wi-Fi using EasyPass!

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., Aug. 1, 2024 – 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

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., July 30, 2024 – Cambium Networks (NASDAQ: CMBM), a leading global provider of networking solutions, today announced expansion of its advanced services offerings with EasyPass, featuring secure access services as part of cnMaestro™. EasyPass – combined with network automation and threat protection functions as part of the Cambium ONE Network solution – addresses the unique challenges of managing security, scale and the wide variety of users and IoT devices connecting to Wi-Fi networks.

Key benefits include:

Easy Onboarding: EasyPass provides a range of access and portal solutions to onboard users and devices of all types, including employees, guests, event attendees, IoT devices, and more. The solution simplifies the process, both for the IT administrator and the end user. The use of captive portals is minimized to reduce process overhead, for easing the connection of headless IoT devices to achieve scale and reduce manual configuration, minimizing the risk of human errors.

Network Automation: Cambium’s solution automates the configuration of the network, both at the initial setup and through ongoing moves, adds and changes. Out-of-the-box network setup is significantly simplified for end-to-end Cambium ONE Network systems with VLANs and other parameters automatically assigned. Policy-based Automation (PBA) enhances the control for multi-vendor networks by enabling and enforcing network policies using match and action objects. This automation ensures consistent application of security policies across the network, isolating traffic and reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

Vulnerability Mitigation: The Cambium Network Security Edge (NSE) consolidates security, network services and SD-WAN into a single solution. Key to the solution for access services is proactive LAN vulnerability assessments. The always-on service ensures both wireless and wired devices are proactively protected against threats on an ongoing basis, not just at the time of initial onboarding or through periodic checks. The solution identifies device vulnerabilities and provides detailed reports, including severity, exploitation probability, and remediation recommendations.

“With the increasing complexity of network environments and the rise of cyber threats, it is crucial for businesses to have robust and secure access and device management,” said Bruce Miller, Vice President, Product Management, Marketing and Planning at Cambium Networks. “Our enhanced access services provide enterprises with the tools they need to protect their networks comprehensively while simplifying management and reducing operational costs.”

With Cambium’s ONE Network solution, all network elements are deployed and managed from a single platform, offering a cohesive and efficient management experience:

  • cnMaestro™ Network Management provides a single point of truth for Cambium’s ONE Network and includes multi-tenancy to enable managed service providers to scale across many customers.
  • cnMatrix Ethernet Switches provide a comprehensive lineup of indoor and ruggedized versions for flexible deployment options in campus and service provider networks.
  • Enterprise Wi-Fi solutions provide a comprehensive range of indoor and outdoor access points, including high-density solutions for demanding high-usage environments and exceptional outdoor performance at long ranges.
  • “Wireless fiber” using point-to-point or point-to-multipoint fixed wireless (5, 6, and 60 GHz) with ePMP™ and cnWave™ to quickly and economically connect buildings or sites at a fraction of the cost of wired or fiber links. Pre-configured Bridge-in-a-Box versions of these solutions enable fast, out-of-the-box setup of wireless networks in minutes.

To experience the power of Cambium’s ONE Network, including enhanced security services and managing a full network stack from a single pane of glass, check out an interactive demo for EasyPass here.

Download the EasyPass infographic to see why fast, safe and easy Wi-Fi connectivity is a necessity in today’s mobile world.

To attend a webinar on how to simplify secure Wi-Fi using EasyPass on Tues. Aug. 13, 2024, at 10:00 AM CDT, register here.

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.

Media Contact

pr@cambiumnetworks.com

For a long time, internet service providers (ISP) have been grappling with increasing demands for higher speeds, particularly within the core and distribution layers of the network. As of 2024, advancements in technology have enabled ISPs to achieve multi-hundred gigabit speeds at the core layer and tens of gigabits at the distribution layer.

Despite the availability of multi-gigabit tariff plans, many people are unable to attain the internet speeds they are paying for due to several reasons: 

  • First, the active end-customer equipment installed at their premises may not be capable of supporting such speeds. For instance, some individuals still use 802.11n wireless access points despite subscribing to a 5 Gbps plan. 
  • Second, the LAN infrastructure may not be capable of handling such speeds, especially in multi-dwelling unit (MDU) buildings where the LAN is often coaxial-based. Even with the latest DOCSIS generation offering speeds of up to 10 Gbps, poor-quality coaxial cables and LAN infrastructure can result in packet loss and high latency issues.

FTTR: Revolutionizing Broadband Access and Smart Home Connectivity

As a result, I predict that the era of Fiber-to-the-Room (FTTR) begins today, and those who recognize this trend will emerge as market leaders. Despite some skepticism regarding the durability of fiber and the skills required for proper fiber laying, I anticipate that LANs will transition to being completely fiber-based within the next 5 years, displacing coaxial and twisted copper pair cables. Additionally, fiber interfaces will become essential for all LAN equipment. I expect to see the mix of PON and active fiber.

A prime example supporting this prediction is Homebase, a company that provides multi gigabit speeds with the fiber connections to every apartment in MDU buildings using a Cambium Fiber solution and Cambium Networks ecosystem in general. Homebase sets new standards for the development of IT infrastructure in multi-apartment buildings and the accessibility of digital services. The fiber infrastructure of the LAN network lays the foundation for the development of building technologies and capabilities, including IoT devices and media services.

More information:

Fedor Trutsko is the Software QA Manager for Cambium Networks.

The PMP 450v platform is now available as a second fixed wireless PMP solution for 6 GHz from Cambium Networks, joining the ePMP™ 4600. Previously, ISED approval (for 6 GHz use in Canada) was attained, and more recently, the 450v has received the FCC grant for 6 GHz for use in the US. When developing the 450v, our goal was to optimize the PMP 450 platform for the latest needs and requirements of the most demanding Service Providers. The 450v radios bring new features, capabilities, and enhanced performance, while remaining interoperable with existing PMP 450 platform equipment. The 450v also maintains all of the software features that made the 450 platform the flagship point-to-multipoint solution to date.

The 450v is able to provide more bandwidth to more customers, enabling service providers to offer higher bandwidth subscription packages. By providing performance consistent with the advertised speeds and the quality of experience that the subscriber expects, the operator can create customer delight and reduce churn within the network using this equipment.

Interoperability with prior generations of PMP 450 radios can provide more affordable options for deployment as well as seamless migration paths for existing equipment, while new features can help grow the network in both coverage and performance, all while leveraging past investments.

Wide Operating Spectrum

The 450v platform supports operating frequencies from 5.15 GHz up to 7.125 GHz. This is a much wider operating spectrum than the previous radios within this platform and represents new capabilities for this system to cover the newly available spectrum in many regions of the world. While 6 GHz is only commercially available in a few countries today, we expect this band to become more widely available in the near future. In many areas, the use of a shared-spectrum system may be required to convince regulatory authorities to allow more significant use of the 6 GHz spectrum. The 450v platform already supports these methods of dynamic spectrum allocation and can be adapted if new or different sharing methods are chosen for future releases.

The 450v platform will operate in bandwidths from 5 MHz to 40 MHz, similar to prior generations, and to maintain backward compatibility with those systems. However, the 450v will also support additional channel sizes by combining component carriers.

System Operation and Carrier Definition

First, to define the way the system operates, we define the data carrier as the window of spectrum in which a component carrier can be placed. For PMP 450v, this carrier is 100 MHz of spectrum. The component carrier is defined as the energized spectrum (over which data transfer takes place) within the carrier window. In the case of the 4×4 PMP 450v, there will be up to four component carriers, each up to 40 MHz wide. Therefore, the deployment of these component carriers is quite flexible depending on which spectrum might be available to the operator in a given coverage area.

The below figure helps explains this concept:

CC = Component Carrier, BW = (Channel) Bandwidth

The 450v is currently available in both a 4×4 access point (AP) and a 4×4 subscriber module (SM). These radios have multiple carriers (two 2×2 carriers, specifically) in which to place the four component carriers. When these subscribers are operating with prior-generation equipment, such as the PMP 450i or PMP 450b subscribers, they will register with only a single component carrier to transfer data. This system allows for maximum deployment flexibility.

For example, the flexibility of this type of system will allow an operator to separate more narrow channels then aggregate them to maximize the total bandwidth, yet allow this link to operate at the highest possible power. The Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) system in the United States calculates the type of interference that the PMP 450v might generate and will determine which channels the radio can operate on without interfering with incumbent 6 GHz license holders (i.e., those that operate 6 GHz microwave PTP links). It also determines the maximum allowed power level.

Spectrum Inquiry Tool

Cambium offers a Spectrum Inquiry tool that runs the calculations for maximum allowed power given the coordinates and height of the radio the operator would like to deploy. In the example below, you can see that there are quite a few licensed incumbents that are limiting the power of the radio. If we use a radio that supports only wide channels, there are many areas within the band where the total power would require reduction. However, if the PMP 450v is deployed here, we can operate at 36 dBm (the maximum power) in some smaller channel sizes (and aggregate them) to maximize the throughput yet maintain maximum power (to optimize the range).


In addition, the system could be deployed in multi-sector mode, meaning that two to four component carriers can be configured and SMs within this sector can be assigned to any of these component carriers, effectively resulting in multiple sectors within the same physical location. Simultaneously, the 4×4 450v SM could be added anywhere within this sector to aggregate these component carriers into a single remote location, providing exceptionally high throughput where required, over 1.2 Gbps at the highest modulation. The figures below show these deployment strategies:


In conclusion, Cambium Networks’ PMP 450v represents a significant advancement in fixed wireless broadband technology, particularly for the 6 GHz spectrum. If you are interested in learning more about the PMP 450v platform, view the webinar replay.

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