Band 48 refers to a specific LTE frequency band that operates in the 3550–3700 MHz range, also known as the CBRS band (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) in the United States.
Table of Contents
📡 What is LTE Band 48?
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 3550 MHz – 3700 MHz |
| Technology | 4G LTE (TDD — Time Division Duplex) |
| Common Name | CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) |
| Bandwidth | 150 MHz total |
| 3GPP Band Designation | Band 48 |
⚙️ What is Band 48 Used For?
Private LTE and 5G Networks
- Enterprises, campuses, and industrial facilities use Band 48 to build private cellular networks for secure communication, automation, and IoT.
Fixed Wireless Access (FWA)
- Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) use Band 48 to deliver broadband internet in rural or underserved areas.
Carrier Offloading
- Mobile operators (like Verizon and AT&T) use Band 48 to offload traffic from their main spectrum bands.
CBRS Small Cells
- Deployed in offices, stadiums, and smart cities for localized coverage and capacity.
🛡️ Spectrum Access Tiers (U.S. CBRS Model)
Band 48 follows a three-tiered spectrum sharing model managed by a Spectrum Access System (SAS):
| Tier | Description |
|---|---|
| Incumbent Access | Federal/military systems (e.g., Navy) |
| Priority Access License | Licensed, auctioned spectrum |
| General Authorized Access | Unlicensed, shared use |
📱 Devices That Support Band 48
Band 48 is supported by many newer devices, including:
- Smartphones: Most recent iPhones (11 and newer), Samsung Galaxy S/Note series, Pixel phones
- CBRS Gateways: Cradlepoint, Peplink, Baicells
- Enterprise APs: Ruckus, Celona, and others
🌍 Global Relevance
Outside the U.S., Band 48 overlaps with mid-band 3.5 GHz 5G allocations. In many countries, this band is part of n78 in the 5G NR (New Radio) spectrum.