Ericsson has launched Radio 6646, a unique triple-band, tri-sector radio that reduces energy consumption by 40 percent compared to triple-band single-sector radios and, with reduced weight by 60 percent – including the use of aluminum – minimizes site footprint as well.

The latest addition to Ericsson’s radio portfolio enhances Ericsson tri-sector products’ multiband capabilities by integrating the 900, 800, and 700 MHz frequency bands into one compact 2G to 5G-capable radio. Radio 6646’s low-band spectrum capabilities will greatly improve both 5G coverage and mid-band (3.5 GHz) performance in an energy-efficient manner in response to the communications service providers’ (CSPs’) increasing demand for more environmentally friendly solutions.

A 40% decrease in energy usage can result in annual savings per site that are equivalent to charging an electric car 40 times. The new triple-band, tri-sector radio’s weight reduction of 60% will also help CSPs cut back deployment expenses, tower rent costs, and carbon footprint. Nine single-band radios can be replaced by a single Radio 6646.

Vicente Abad, RAN Technology and Support Manager at Telefónica Spain, says: “Ericsson’s new Radio 6646 will offer a highly compact and flexible solution to expand 5G coverage in a very cost-efficient manner while being economical and sustainable – the footprint and energy consumption achieved are something we believe will be a powerful driver for 5G, and we look forward to the first deployments in Spain.”

David Hammarwall, Head of Product Area Networks at Ericsson, says: “Our new energy-efficient radio uniquely combines spectrum capabilities in an easy-to-install form factor. This will simplify deployments and extend 5G coverage, starting in Europe. With this latest innovation, service providers can scale up 5G Standalone deployments with new applications for consumers, enterprises, and mission-critical communications.”

Radio 6646 will expand the wide-area reach, outside-in coverage from rooftops and towers to indoor spaces like offices, basements, shops, and households. Additionally, it will boost 5G network capacity, especially when combined with 5G Standalone (5G SA).

The new radio can also operate in the 700 MHz band, which is anticipated to be a crucial spectrum for 5G SA deployments because low bands can enhance the functionality and range of mid-band TDD. With the combination of three low bands, Radio 6646 will improve both outdoor and indoor coverage for all mobile generations – 2G to 5G – as well as IoT. The frequencies are widely supported by devices and have a huge potential to accelerate the growth of 5G services.

Radio 6646 follows the 2021 launch of the dual-band, tri-sector Radio 6626, which is commercially available across global markets. Earlier this year, Ericsson also unveiled seven innovative 5G RAN solutions that deliver significant energy savings and up to ten-fold capacity increases – with minimal or no added footprint.

Find out more about Ericsson Remote Radios for sustainable networks here.