Mariano Almagro, sales director of ZTE Spain, took part in the “Rural Digitalization” lecture series organized by Asteo Red Neutra during the 16th Aotec Technology Fair and focused his presentation on the future of 5G and the steps needed to take advantage of its potential. In this regard, he listed the key requirements for 5G to deliver what it promises:

• Being able to count on “sufficiently wide frequency bands; n78 (3,400 to 3,800 MHz) and n257 (26GHz);
• Sufficient transmission capacity from the site, recommended above 10Gbps, 50Gbps, 100Gbps, 400Gbps;
• Transport that ensures the lowest possible latency to the services that require it;
• And that the distance between the antenna and the devices is as small as possible, both client and machine-to-machine”.

What do we do with 5G?

Regarding small towns and rural environments, Almagro clarified that in order for them to benefit, 5G antennas must be connected by fiber optics and with “the radio site in the center of the town to better distribute their transport or beamforming capabilities“. In addition, the radio site must have antennas with massive MIMO and use frequencies of 3400-3800 MHz.

Fiber optics to secure the future

Almagro made it clear that in order to take advantage of 5G it is key to reach the population with fiber optics. The development of this infrastructure is essential because “any telecommunications system can use it to transport the signal , taking full advantage of its possibilities“, since to carry 5G, there are fiber backhaul solutions with the capacity required.

In conclusion, the sales director of ZTE Spain highlighted the need to complete fiber deployments in Spain in small towns and rural areas. “On top of it we will be able to deploy 5G, 6G or any other technology.”