What are the limitations of 5G mmWave?

Millimeter waves — often referred to as mmWaves or high-band 5G — are frequencies starting at 24 GHz and beyond. As radio waves increase in frequency, each wave narrows in length. Because of its high frequencies, mmWave has a limited range of only 300 to 500 feet and struggles to penetrate buildings .

These challenges can be categorized into several different groups, namely, spectrum aspects, propagation aspects, energy efficiency aspects, and cost aspects . By looking at above drivers, mm-wave communication looks a promising technology ground for further development and research in the framework of 5G networks.

As a backgrounder , electromagnetic waves with higher frequencies cannot travel long distances and are more susceptible to physical obstructions .