What is FR1?
FR1 is the sub-6 GHz frequency range for 5G NR defined by 3GPP, covering 410 MHz to 7125 GHz (expanded to 7125 MHz in Release 17). It is the primary frequency range for global 5G deployments due to its broad coverage area, good building penetration, and compatibility with existing mobile infrastructure. Most worldwide 5G commercial deployments use FR1.
How Does FR1 Work?
FR1 supports maximum channel bandwidths of 100 MHz (with 30 kHz SCS) and subcarrier spacings of 15, 30, and 60 kHz. Both FDD and TDD duplex modes are used. Key FR1 bands globally include n77/n78 (3.5 GHz C-band — the most widely deployed), n28 (700 MHz for rural coverage), n41 (2.5 GHz TDD), and n79 (4.9 GHz for dense deployments).
Use Cases
Nationwide 5G coverage using low bands (700–900 MHz), urban high-capacity 5G using C-band (3.4–3.8 GHz), indoor 5G at 4.9 GHz, LTE/NR spectrum sharing (DSS).
3GPP / Standards Reference
3GPP TS 38.101-1 (NR UE Radio Transmission and Reception; Frequency Range 1)
Related Terms
FR2 | NR | FDD | TDD | mmWave | eMBB
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This glossary entry is part of the 5GWorldPro Complete 5G Glossary. To go deeper into 5G architecture and technology, explore our 5G Training courses.
