Band n70 (5G NR, 1700 MHz Supplemental)
Understanding Band n70
Band n70 is a niche NR band created to utilize supplemental AWS-3 spectrum that does not fit within the standard Band n66 range. Its asymmetric design (15 MHz UL vs. 25 MHz DL) reflects the specific frequency allocation and matches mobile traffic patterns where downloads dominate. This band is primarily used as a supplemental carrier alongside n66, n41, or n77.
The 1695 to 1710 MHz uplink sits below the AWS-1 range, while the 1995 to 2020 MHz downlink falls between PCS (1990 MHz) and AWS (2110 MHz). This non-standard pairing required a dedicated band definition in 3GPP specifications. In practice, Band n70 is less commonly deployed than mainstream NR bands but provides incremental capacity for operators with AWS-3 spectrum holdings.
Band n70 Technical Parameters
UL: 1695 – 1710 MHz (15 MHz)
DL: 1995 – 2020 MHz (25 MHz)
Duplex spacing: 300 MHz (non-standard)
Asymmetric Design:
DL exceeds UL by 10 MHz
Matches 10:1 DL/UL traffic asymmetry
NR Configuration:
SCS: 15 kHz (FDD)
Max UL channel: 15 MHz | Max DL channel: 20 MHz
Primarily used as supplemental CA carrier
US AWS Band Family
| NR Band | Uplink | Downlink | BW (UL/DL) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| n66 | 1710-1780 MHz | 2110-2200 MHz | 70/90 MHz | AWS-1+3+4 |
| n70 | 1695-1710 MHz | 1995-2020 MHz | 15/25 MHz | AWS-3 supplement |
| n2 | 1850-1910 MHz | 1930-1990 MHz | 60/60 MHz | PCS |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Band n70 asymmetric?
15 MHz UL vs. 25 MHz DL results from the AWS-3 frequency arrangement. Extra DL matches mobile traffic asymmetry (10:1 DL/UL ratio). Operators use n70 as a supplemental capacity carrier alongside symmetric bands.
How does Band n70 relate to Band n66?
Both from AWS spectrum but different frequency ranges. n66 covers main AWS-1+3+4 (1710 to 2200 MHz). n70 covers supplemental AWS-3 (1695 to 1710/1995 to 2020 MHz) outside n66. Devices aggregate both for additional capacity.
Is Band n70 widely deployed?
Limited deployment. Narrow asymmetric nature restricts use to supplemental capacity. Most operators prefer wider bands (n41, n77, n66). May increase as operators fully refarm AWS-3 holdings to NR.