Macrocells are the backbone of 5G wireless networks, as they have been for every previous iteration of cellular technology. Macrocells have limitations, which have delayed 5G wireless network expansion, particularly as broadband needs explode, with businesses needing higher quality connections and more bandwidth in more places, more quickly.

5G small cells are a groundbreaking advancement in wireless technology. Unlike traditional macrocells, which cover large geographic areas with significant infrastructure, 5G small cells are compact base stations that provide high-performance connectivity in more focused locations.

Small cell nodes can be strategically positioned to optimize mobile network coverage where macrocells can’t reach. As such, they are integral to the delivery of seamless 5G networks. By supporting vast amounts of mobile data and managing increased bandwidth demand, 5G small cells are used to create faster and more reliable broadband connections for both indoor and outdoor environments. They enable rapid expansion of wireless networks that are crucial for applications like IoT, automation, and smart cities.

Three types of small cells scale to all connectivity needs

5G small cells use radio frequency to send and receive data in a defined area, enhancing the network infrastructure with superior connectivity and lower latency. By shortening the distance that data travels, small cells optimize network performance for end users.

Integration with broader mobile networks occurs seamlessly as small cell technology adapts to existing macrocells, LTE networks, and newer 5G mmWave spectrums. Service providers deploy small cells to address backhaul limitations and maintain efficient data flow across a network. Because they operate at lower power levels, small cell emissions are minimized, ensuring compliance with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines, thus making them safe and effective for widespread use.

There are three types of small cells available to suit specific needs.

Femtocells enhance indoor connectivity

Femtocells are small cell nodes designed to enhance connectivity within indoor environments, such as shopping malls, residential buildings, and offices. These small cells are particularly beneficial where building materials obstruct traditional cellular signals. They ensure high-performance and seamless connectivity for users and businesses, and maximize the efficiency and reliability of mobile networks within enclosed spaces.

Unlock lightning-fast 5G internet almost anywhere

Intermediate coverage with picocells

Picocells are ideal for providing coverage in medium-sized indoor areas and select outdoor spaces, such as convention centers, airports, and sports stadiums, where mobile connectivity demands are substantial but less than in large outdoor spaces. Picocells help manage increased bandwidth demand, reduce latency, and maintain consistent data rates in these areas.

Microcells complement macrocells

Despite their name, microcells are the largest small cells, supporting connectivity in large outdoor and busy urban environments. Often installed on infrastructure such as streetlights, utility poles, and municipal buildings, these nodes play a vital role in extending network coverage and improving connectivity in public spaces, public right-of-way areas, and transportation hubs.

Small cells support and enable many use cases

5G small cells address the limitations of traditional cellular networks. Deployment significantly enhances network coverage, allowing telecom providers to meet the soaring demand for high-performance mobile broadband services.

The integration of small cells into the Radio Access Network (RAN) aids in the efficient transmission of data, which is essential for densely populated regions. By bridging gaps left by large-scale macrocells, small-cell technology supports wireless communications in challenging environments. This makes them applicable to a wide variety of use cases, including:

  • Urban areas: Small cells can be deployed on lampposts and building facades to support improved network coverage and smart city initiatives. They provide reliable connectivity for IoT devices and data-driven solutions for more efficient and livable urban spaces.
  • Indoor venues: Indoor small cells offer uninterrupted broadband access in venues ranging from shopping malls to theaters and stadiums, providing robust connectivity for digital transactions and digitally enhanced live experiences.
  • Public transportation: Airports, train stations, and bus terminals can use small cells to ensure travelers have consistent internet access for ticketing, scheduling, and navigation applications.
  • Smart factories: Small cells enhance wireless communications for industrial IoT applications, supporting automation and robotic systems with the low-latency communications they need. By enabling real-time data collection and analysis, small cells help optimize production processes and make smart factories more competitive and innovative.
  • Residential areas: Smart home devices benefit greatly from stable and fast internet connections facilitated by small cells, as does remote working and learning.
  • Healthcare facilities: Telehealth services and remote patient monitoring depend on reliable connectivity, which small cells deliver, enabling secure transmission of medical data and electronic health records.
  • Educational institutions: E-learning and digital classrooms have become the norm, and they require strong network support and reliable connectivity. Small cells provide the robust broadband needed, enhancing communication and collaboration between students and staff and facilitating more interactive and engaging educational experiences.
  • Rural and remote areas: Small cells are well-suited to extend network coverage to traditionally underserved areas, particularly rural and remote regions. Bringing better broadband to these locations helps narrow the digital divide, facilitating remote work and communication that support economic growth and development.

Small cell deployment will shape the future of 5G deployment

Small, yet powerful, 5G small cells are poised to lead the way in shaping the future of connectivity across the United States. These small yet powerful nodes offer solutions to existing network limitations and foster innovations in wireless technology.

One of the standout features of 5G small cells is their ease of deployment, which facilitates rapid installation across urban, suburban, and rural areas. They can be discreetly mounted on existing structures such as streetlights, utility poles, and building facades, reducing the need for new construction and minimizing the disruption to communities during installation. As a result, telecom providers can expand and enhance network infrastructure efficiently and cost-effectively.

The expansion of small cell deployment will optimize data rates and improve network capacity. This scalability is crucial for supporting the burgeoning number of data-intensive applications, from streaming high-definition video to enabling real-time augmented reality experiences. Moreover, small cells are adept at handling localized traffic, thereby reducing congestion on the broader network and ensuring consistent performance in high-density areas.

Leverage 5G small cells seamlessly with Inseego’s 5G cellular routers

Our 5G cellular routers enable businesses to harness the full potential of 5G small cells. These devices seamlessly connect with small cell equipment to deliver high-speed broadband access, ensuring superior network coverage and reliability and enabling robust wireless networks anywhere, from bustling urban areas to remote rural settings.

Designed for durability, ease of use, and expanded reach, Inseego routers excel in both indoor and outdoor conditions. They are ideal for businesses in rural areas, enhancing operations through improved digital connectivity where traditional infrastructure falls short. Urban businesses can drive greater efficiency and more innovation with support for remote work, IoT integration, and automation.

By leveraging 5G networks and small cell technology, Inseego offers indispensable solutions for reliable connectivity. Speak to an expert today to explore how an Inseego 5G cellular router can benefit your business.