B42 (3500 MHz)

Band 42 operates in the 3.5 GHz spectrum, optimised for Time Division Duplexing (TDDTDD: A wireless communication technique that uses a single frequency band for both transmitting and receiving operations but separates these operations in time. In a TDD system, upstream (transmission from user equipment to base station) and downstream (transmission from base station to user equipment)…). Positioned in this frequency, Band 42 is equipped to serve urban and densely populated regions, offering an efficient balance between coverage and network densification. The TDD setup enables operators to flexibly allocate bandwidth, addressing variations in uplink and downlink traffic demands.

Historically, this band saw use for 4G deployments. However, with the rise of 5G technologies, much of the 3.5 GHz spectrum, including Band 42, has been repurposed for 5G deployments, specifically under the n78 band. As a result, contemporary 4G deployments in Band 42 are now less common, with emphasis shifting towards 5G utilisation.