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.
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.
HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., June 24, 2024 – Cambium Networks (NASDAQ: CMBM), a leading global provider of networking solutions, today announced significant investments in its ConnectedPartner channel program aimed at providing more value and tools to its Enterprise partners such as Managed Wi-Fi Service Providers, Value Added Resellers, and System Integrators. The enhanced program introduces an Elite partner level, offering a host of new benefits designed to accelerate growth, reduce risk, and increase sales velocity.
Cambium Networks’ ONE Network platform is at the core of this initiative, simplifying the management of wired and wireless broadband and Wi-Fi network edge technologies. This allows network operators, either managed service providers or end customers, to concentrate more resources on their business operations rather than on network management. The revamped channel program is structured to address the top concerns of enterprise partners, such as generating new revenue opportunities, combating margin erosion, and enhancing the capacity of skilled network teams.
Key Benefits of the ConnectedPartner Program for Top Tier Partners:
Higher Margins: Premium tier partners benefit from increased discounts associated with their tier level, directly impacting their bottom line. They also have access to aggressive specialty program discounts.
Joint Marketing Portal Resources: Access to joint marketing and market development funds to boost visibility and business opportunities.
Geographic Scarcity for SI/VAR: With deal registration approval, competition from other partners on the same project is limited.
ONE Network Concierge Services: Exclusive lifecycle support for Elite managed Wi-Fi partners to ensure continuous service and customer satisfaction.
Enterprise End-User Leads: Top-tier partners have priority access to leads directly from Cambium Networks, driving new business opportunities.
Live Virtual Training: Discounts for comprehensive hands-on technical training to certify engineers and maintain high skill levels.
“Amicus Networx, a division of Safety NetAccess, has been working with Cambium for a few years. Whether they are generating new business opportunities, or we are collaborating on a marketing campaign or event, Cambium has been easy to work with, and we’ve seen several new projects in a short amount of time,” said Dave Elder, Amicus Networx.
Cambium Networks is committed to empowering its partners with the tools and resources necessary to thrive in a competitive market. The enhanced ConnectedPartner program, with its streamlined access to benefits and lower Enterprise Wi-Fi thresholds for moving up tiers, is designed to make it easier and quicker for partners to realize these advantages.
For more information about the ConnectedPartner program and to apply, visit Cambium Networks’ Partner Page.
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.
When was the last time you stayed at a hotel that did not offer Wi-Fi? If you did, I bet you will not stay there again. How do we describe Wi-Fi in hotels today? Expected, required and hopefully, working. We probably do not use words like “great,” “seamless” and “wow” nearly enough. Let us take a look at three ways Wi-Fi 7 will give the hotel guest a new set of words to describe their experience.
1. Handle Multiple Devices
One hotel executive recently stated that the number of guest mobile devices doubled in the early years of the tablet era, from 2011 through 2013. That was long ago. While the number of guest devices has stabilized at around 1.6 devices per guest in 2024 according to one hotel surveyed, the number of network-connected devices continues to grow. New devices on the network include IOT-enabled building management devices, mobile point-of-sale and hotel operations. Wi-Fi 7 Multi-Link Optimization (MLO), 4x to 8x wider channels and clean 6 GHz frequency will open up capacity growth for the next decade, easily supporting unknown guest devices and expanded IOT and line-of-business applications.
2. Support AI-Augmented Experiences
When Facebook changed the name of its holding company to Meta, Mark Zuckerberg said, “We’ll be able to feel present – like we’re right there with people no matter how far apart we actually are.” That sounds great for business travelers far from their family, but it does not seem any closer today than it did in 2021.
Do not laugh too hard—once we add extended reality, spatial computing and AI, we could be seeing the next generation taking shape right now. Generative and interactive AI require a massive amount of data to be collected at the edge of the network, transported to the core and sent back to the edge for consumption. This high-bandwidth, low-latency and bi-directional data is exactly what Wi-Fi 7 is designed for. MLO delivers faster speed and significantly lower latency. The clean 6 GHz frequency band will allow most regulatory domains to support channel bonding up to 320 MHz. Even if the 320 MHz channels are not useful in your regulatory domain, you can easily use 160 MHz, 4x to 8x wider than you can use today with Wi-Fi 6.
3. Every Hotel Guest Deserves a Great Experience
The previous paragraph lays out a vision that may still be years away. But even today, every hotel guest deserves great Wi-Fi and a great experience. AI can organize the digital bits and bytes to automate complicated tasks and self-optimize without human interaction. The specialized engines that harvest data at the edge for AI consumption are being built into Wi-Fi 7 network equipment. Today, Cambium Networks is training AI management systems on proprietary algorithms in Wi-Fi 6 technology, and enabled in Wi-Fi 6, 6E, and Wi-Fi 7. By analyzing vast amounts of data, AI helps hospitality network service provider staff make informed decisions that enhance the guest experience. Cambium Networks’ unique approach focuses on the entire lifecycle of connectivity, ensuring network issues are accurately diagnosed and resolved, building trust in AI recommendations.
Market Trends and Future Predictions
Market analysts predict a significant increase in the adoption of Wi-Fi 7 starting in late 2024. As new devices and infrastructure are evaluated and deployed, the hospitality industry will gradually integrate Wi-Fi 7 to meet growing guest expectations. The continuous growth in smartphone sales, particularly those supporting 6 GHz, indicates a strong future demand for Wi-Fi 7. This trend can be used to plan for network upgrades and ensure that business and leisure hotels remain competitive with state-of-the-art hospitality Wi-Fi solutions.
Conclusion
With faster speeds, greater capacity and the integration of AI for intelligent network management, Wi-Fi 7 is set to redefine the guest experience. “Wow,” “transformative,” “exciting.” We have not heard those words from hotel guests, in the context of Wi-Fi, in a long time, if ever. Get ready to embrace a new set of guest words to describe the future travel experience.
HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., June 20, 2024 – Cambium Networks (NASDAQ: CMBM), a leading global provider of networking solutions, today announced the full FCC and ISED certification of the PMP 450v Fixed Wireless Access Point and Subscriber Module, expanding its advanced connectivity solutions in the 6 GHz spectrum. PMP 450v is Cambium Networks’ second fully accredited 6 GHz platform, joining the ePMP 4600 and ePMP Force 4625.
Many broadband operators face capacity constraints due to crowded 5 GHz spectrum. With this certification, service providers, enterprises, and industrial network operators can now cost effectively add broadband capacity to both new and existing 3 GHz and 5 GHz deployments. The 6 GHz unlicensed spectrum uses an Automatic Frequency Coordination (AFC) system that is also fully approved and operational.
The PMP 450v Access Point and Subscriber Module are designed to operate seamlessly across the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands (up to 7.125 GHz), ensuring both backward and forward compatibility. With its ultra-wideband support of up to 160 MHz total channel bandwidth, the PMP 450v offers a substantial increase in capacity, enabling higher performance to more customers and flexibility in spectrum usage.
Key Features and Benefits:
Backward and Forward Compatibility: Protect existing investments while migrating to next-generation technology.
4×4 MIMO Access Point: Enhanced performance with more bandwidth and multi-sector mode, supporting independent operation of 5 GHz and 6 GHz carriers.
Carrier Aggregation: Flexibility in spectrum usage with different bandwidths to adapt to varying congestion levels in the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands.
High Capacity and Low Latency: Supports up to 1.2 Gbps capacity with latencies as low as 3–5 ms, ideal for business and residential connectivity.
Ultra-Wide-Band Support: Up to 160 MHz total channel bandwidth.
Comprehensive Management: Easily managed through Cambium Networks’ cnMaestro™ system, providing seamless provisioning, monitoring, and upgrades.
Network Planning: Quickly design networks for optimal deployment and cost effectiveness with LINKPlanner and generate highly accurate RF predictions and derivative services that accurately represent the reality of the RF world from cnHeat.
3-year hardware warranty and support from Cambium Networks.
Certification and Industry Impact
The certification of the PMP 450v underscores Cambium Networks’ dedication to advancing wireless broadband technology. By achieving this certification, the PMP 450v ensures compliance with regulatory standards, offering a reliable solution for expanding network capabilities and enhancing service offerings.
“Cambium Networks’ PMP 450v is a game-changer for network operators looking to maximize their spectrum resources while maintaining exceptional performance,” said Morgan Kurk, president and CEO of Cambium Networks. “This certification is a testament to our ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in connectivity solutions.”
Automated Frequency Coordination – Simplified and at No Additional Cost
Cambium Networks equipment can operate across 850 MHz of the 6 GHz spectrum band allocated by the FCC and 950 MHz allocated by the Canadian authorities. Cambium Networks is working closely with and leveraging Qualcomm Technologies’ turnkey Automated Frequency Coordination Suite.
Cambium Networks makes the AFC process transparent to the service provider. With the AFC interface built into the radio, the service provider can easily use the AFC service with no extra charge or hassle.
6 GHz Spectrum Availability Tool
The 6 GHz unlicensed spectrum in the United States and Canada requires each radio to connect to the AFC service. This interface is included in each 6 GHz radio and reports back which channels are available at the location where the radio is deployed. Cambium offers several options for an operator to obtain information on channel availability before even purchasing radio equipment. Either LINKPlanner or Cambium’s stand-alone 6 GHz Spectrum Availability Tool will return information on the frequencies and power limits available at any location of the operator’s choosing. By simply selecting the location where one intends to deploy 6 GHz, the tool responds with the channel and power level availability one could see when deploying the radio at that location.
Cambium’s ONE Network provides a complete networking infrastructure portfolio along with cnMaestro X single-pane-of-glass management for the entire network that enables enterprises and service provider operators to simplify operations with a secure converged network. With a comprehensive view from edge to cloud, network operators can easily manage ONE network fabric of multiple types of technologies from a central location. Technologies include:
Indoor, outdoor and wall plate Wi-Fi access points, including Wi-Fi 6/6E
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 Networks’ wired and wireless broadband and network edge technologies. Our customers can focus more resources on managing their business rather than the network. We makeconnectivity that just works.
“Connected campus” program of indoor and outdoor Wi-Fi 6 access points provides Internet resources for 1.3 million students across Morocco.
HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., June 18, 2024 – Cambium Networks (NASDAQ: CMBM), a leading global provider of wireless networking solutions, today announced itswireless technology has been selected for a nationwide Wi-Fi network deployment for higher education institutions, a project called “Connected Campus.” The network provides multi-gigabit Wi-Fi 6 access at 12 major public universities across more than 200 campuses. The campuses will be equipped with Wi-Fi 6 solutions from Cambium Networks, designed and deployed by 3GCOM, a service integrator and partner of the global operator appointed for this project.
The “Connected Campus” program enables more than 1.3 million Moroccan students, education and administrative executives to access the digital resources of their campus from any campus in the country.
“Cambium Networks Wi-Fi 6 XV2-2X indoor and XV2-T0 outdoor access points (AP) were chosen for their excellent quality to price ratio,” said Noureddine Chikhaoui, Sales Director of 3GCOM. “Our benchmark studies have shown a clear advantage to Cambium Networks in terms of coverage area. Cambium technology made it possible to optimize the number of access points required, therefore reducing the physical installation and configuration budget. More than 18,000 access points have been deployed in the whole network.”
Cambium Networks’ Wi-Fi 6 access points and end-to-end cloud management solutions provide multi-gigabit Wi-Fi access at a proven low total cost of ownership. With easy integration to existing systems, planning tools, zero-touch provisioning, streamlined installation and centralized cloud management, the solution enables rapid delivery of end-to-end multi-gigabit wireless speeds.
“Flexible learning, online testing, and video collaboration with media-rich content requires stable, reliable and affordable performance,” said Morgan Kurk, CEO of Cambium Networks. “Our purpose-built technologies uniquely address density and scale while delivering best in class experience—ensuring uninterrupted learning while remaining affordable.”
Morocco’s Connected Campus technology includes:
Indoor Wi-Fi 6 – The XV2-2X is a dual-radio Wi-Fi 6 AP is designed to deliver next generation networks with edge services at a value-based price. Wi-Fi 6 technology delivers higher network speeds and enables more connected devices to be online with higher data quality.
Outdoor Wi-Fi 6 – The XV2-2T delivers a range of up to 1 km with higher throughput at shorter ranges compared to competitive solutions. Covering more area per device, network operators can save costs on equipment, cabling, installation, maintenance and access rights for outdoor Wi-Fi deployments.
Wi-Fi Designer – This online predictive heat mapping tool helps to optimize indoor AP performance.
cnMaestro X Cloud – Cambium Networks’ cloud management solution delivers secure, end-to-end management of the network with zero-touch provisioning and AI-based analytics and troubleshooting.
MSP Dashboard– This advanced functionality in cnMaestro X provides a managed account for each university.
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 Networks’ wired and wireless broadband and network edge technologies. Our customers can focus more resources on managing their business rather than the network. We deliver connectivity that just works.
Media Contact: Serge Leroy IPStory for Cambium +33 (0)6 26 73 13 34 serge.leroy@ipstory.fr
Nestled deep in the woods, far from the reach of landlines or mobile signals, lies the award-winning Markoff’s Haunted Forest, a popular attraction known for its eerie thrills. In 2023, the team installed 2 Cambium XV2-2T Outdoor Wi-Fi access points on the “Bell Tower” in the center of the property. These outdoor Wi-Fi units were responsible for all online ticketing and entry systems, light/sound systems for the haunting events and vendor credit card processing.
Once the outdoor Wi-Fi was made available to the employees, without even realizing it, they gravitated to Wi-Fi calling across the property rather than relying on their walkie-talkies when away from the few buildings with indoor Wi-Fi. Devices on the outdoor Wi-Fi were regularly seeing 300/300 speed tests with less than 8ms pings.
One fateful day, an unexpected and terrifying ordeal tested the limits of their infrastructure and showcased the unyielding reliability of Cambium Networks’ technology. A fire broke out in the central building of the park. The flames quickly spread, turning the structure into an inferno and threatening to sever the lifeline of communication in this remote area.
The staff quickly sprang into action. As the building hosting the only outdoor Wi-Fi APs was burning to the ground, an employee was able to use these devices on Wi-Fi calling to notify the fire department. The fire department was alerted swiftly, thanks to the resilient Wi-Fi network.
Even as the flames climbed the walls and fire hoses drenched the access points, the connectivity held firm. The staff continued to make crucial calls, coordinating the rescue efforts and ensuring everyone’s safety using Wi-Fi calling, which could be seen via the cnMaestro cloud-based network management system.
This harrowing incident at Markoff’s Haunted Forest more than just a story of survival; it is a testament to the performance of Cambium Networks’ robust technology that shined through the tests of the elements – Fire & Water.
Dakota Hotels emerges as premier example of enhanced guest experience through collaborative technology deployment.
HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., June 4, 2024 – Cambium Networks (NASDAQ: CMBM), a leading global provider of networking solutions, today announced its collaboration with Nonius, a leading global company offering digital technology for hotel guests. This strategic partnership leverages Cambium Networks’ advanced hospitality solutions which include Wi-Fi access points, comprehensive switching solutions, and cnMaestro™ cloud management platform to meet the evolving connectivity demands of hotel guests, showcased by the successful implementation at Dakota Hotels in the United Kingdom, ensuring a seamless digital experience that complements the luxury and comfort Dakota Hotels is known for.
Dakota Hotels faced the challenge of upgrading their Wi-Fi infrastructure to accommodate the increasing number of devices per guest, the demand for high-speed internet access, and the expectation for a flawless online experience.
Alan Poole, Group IT Manager at Dakota Hotels, expressed his enthusiasm with the project’s outcome, “The feedback from our guests has been overwhelmingly positive. The ability to seamlessly connect and enjoy high-speed internet access throughout our properties has significantly enhanced the guest experience. This upgrade is a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional service and staying at the forefront of technology.”
The solution, implemented by Nonius with Cambium Networks’ technology, provides seamless connectivity and supports the diverse needs of the hotel’s operations, from guest services to back-office functions. Technology deployed includes:
Centralized cloud management via Cambium Networks’ cnMaestro system allows Dakota Hotels to streamline network provisioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting, ensuring optimal performance and quick resolution of any issues. This level of control and visibility is critical in maintaining the high standards of guest service for which Dakota Hotels is renowned.
Hayden Doyle, Director at Nonius, stated, “Our collaboration with Cambium Networks has enabled us to deliver a next-generation Wi-Fi solution that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of guests at Dakota Hotels. The ease of deployment, combined with the reliability and performance of Cambium Networks’ technology, has set a new benchmark in hospitality connectivity.”
This partnership between Cambium Networks and Nonius not only exemplifies the innovative spirit of both companies but also their commitment to enhancing the digital experience in hospitality environments. The successful deployment at Dakota Hotels serves as a model for future collaborations aimed at meeting the dynamic connectivity needs of modern hotel guests.
More information:
Download the Dakota Manchester Hotel Enhances Wi-Fi Experience and Boosts Guest Satisfaction case study.
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 Nonius
Nonius is a global leader in providing cutting-edge guest-facing solutions tailored for the hospitality market. Our comprehensive suite of offerings includes Interactive TV, Cast, Mobile App, Guest Wi-Fi, Networks, Digital Signage, Voice, and seamless Integrations with other hotel systems. Our cloud-based solutions are designed to be green, lean, and highly efficient, elevating the digital guest experience while streamlining hotel operations. For more information, visit www.noniussolutions.com
