What frequency is C-band in for 5G?

The new frequency, C-Band, hits the sweet spot in 5G frequencies, offering the widest coverage with the highest speeds possible. The C-Band operates in the 3.7-3.98GHz frequency , which is close to the 4.2-4.4GHz frequency used by altimeters on airlines.

C-band holders in the U.S. are in line to receive $9.7 billion in total for clearing 300 MHz of the band for terrestrial 5G wireless operators by Dec. 5, 2023 , by moving customers to the upper 200 MHz of the band. Intelsat and SES are set to get $4.9 billion and $3.97 billion, respectively, under the FCC’s plan.

The Ku band frequency range is 11.7 – 12.2 GHz (or 11700 to 12220 MHz) Notice how these frequencies are higher than the C band frequency range . Because of the higher frequencies, Ku band waves have shorter wavelengths. Shorter wavelengths mean that you need a smaller dish to receive these frequencies.