5G networks introduce faster data rates, reduced latency, and expanded connectivity compared to 4G. These enhancements support a wide range of applications, including IoT, smart home systems, and dense device deployments. To achieve these improvements, 5G New Radio (NR) operates at higher frequencies, reaching up to 30 GHz in the millimeter-wave spectrum. These frequencies are more susceptible to obstacles and atmospheric conditions, which limits their coverage area and necessitates a denser deployment of antenna sites.
One of the key concerns with this transition is the power levels of 5G transmitters and the potential impact of electromagnetic emissions. This raises questions about how power limits are set and whether increased exposure to radiation from additional antennas poses any health risks. So, now let us look into 5G Transmit Power and Antenna Radiation along with Reliable LTE RF drive test tools in telecom & RF drive test software in telecom and Reliable 5g tester, 5G test equipment, 5g network tester tools in detail.
Electromagnetic Waves and Radio Frequency Radiation
These waves vary in frequency and wavelength, influencing their behavior in different environments.
- Wavelength: The physical distance a wave travels during one cycle.
- Frequency: The number of wave cycles passing a fixed point per second, measured in hertz (Hz).
Radio waves are a subset of electromagnetic radiation generated by electric charge movement in antennas. These waves, classified as radio frequency (RF) radiation, propagate outward from the transmitting antenna.
Microwaves, a higher-frequency category of radio waves (300 MHz to 300 GHz), play a crucial role in telecommunications, including mobile networks, radar systems, satellite links, and wireless data transmission.
Ionizing vs. Non-Ionizing Radiation
Radiation is categorized into ionizing and non-ionizing types based on its energy levels:
- Ionizing radiation: High-energy radiation (e.g., X-rays, gamma rays) capable of altering atomic structures, potentially leading to genetic damage and serious health effects.
- Non-ionizing radiation: Lower-energy radiation (e.g., radio waves, microwaves) that does not carry enough energy to ionize atoms or disrupt DNA.
5G networks use non-ionizing radiation, which does not cause ionization-related health effects. The primary biological impact of RF exposure is localized heating, similar to how a microwave oven warms food. Current scientific studies have not established a direct link between non-ionizing radiation from telecommunications systems and adverse health outcomes.
Exposure Limits and Safety Regulations
Regulatory bodies establish strict exposure limits to mitigate potential risks associated with electromagnetic fields (EMF). These organizations include:
- International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
- European Union (EU) standards
These guidelines define “basic restrictions” based on known biological effects and apply large safety margins. Additionally, “reference levels” provide measurable limits for electromagnetic field strength to ensure compliance in real-world conditions.
Transmit Power in 5G Networks
Transmit power in 5G systems is determined by several factors, including frequency, cell size, and data rate requirements.
- Higher frequencies: Increased propagation losses necessitate more antenna gain to maintain coverage.
- Bandwidth considerations: Wider channel bandwidths require higher output power to maintain consistent power density across the spectrum.
For example, a typical 3.5 GHz 5G antenna with a gain between 22 dBi and 24 dBi helps offset additional free-space path loss. However, maintaining the same power density per MHz as LTE would require approximately 5×80W (400W total), which presents technical and regulatory challenges.
A more realistic approach balances:
- Coverage requirements
- Power consumption constraints
- EMF exposure limits
- Network performance goals
In practice, a 3.5 GHz 5G site may use an RF output power of 120W over a 100 MHz bandwidth, significantly lower than LTE’s typical 80W per 20 MHz. Despite this, uplink limitations remain, as user devices are restricted to a maximum transmit power of 23 dBm (200 mW).
Electromagnetic Field (EMF) Compliance for 5G Antennas
Regulatory compliance for 5G deployments involves evaluating electromagnetic exposure from antenna systems. Operators must ensure that emissions remain within permitted limits before deploying network infrastructure.
Key considerations include:
- Power flux density measurements: Determines the energy distributed over a given area.
- Antenna gain and beamforming: Massive MIMO antennas focus energy in specific directions, increasing power density in targeted areas.
- Public and occupational exposure limits: Defined safety distances help manage exposure levels for both trained professionals and the general public.
Massive MIMO antennas, which enhance 5G performance through beamforming, introduce higher antenna gains (~26 dBi) and increased power levels compared to conventional passive antennas (~18 dBi). These factors contribute to localized increases in EMF levels, making compliance assessments essential.
EMF Compliance Assessment and Mitigation
EMF exposure calculations typically involve worst-case scenarios, assuming:
- Maximum antenna gain
- Continuous transmission at peak power
- Unobstructed propagation in free space
In some cases, regulatory bodies require on-site RF measurements to validate compliance. If necessary, mitigation measures may include:
- Adjusting antenna placement: Positioning antennas on rooftops, towers, or other restricted areas to limit public exposure.
- Reducing transmit power: Lowering power output in high-exposure areas while maintaining network performance.
- Using exclusion zones: Establishing safety perimeters around antenna installations.
Conclusion
The expansion of 5G networks introduces higher frequency bands, increased transmit power, and more dense antenna deployments. While these changes raise concerns about electromagnetic exposure, current research and regulations indicate that non-ionizing radiation from 5G systems remains within established safety limits.
Network operators must adhere to strict EMF guidelines, ensuring both compliance and public confidence in the safety of 5G technology. Future deployments will continue balancing performance, power efficiency, and regulatory constraints to optimize network operations while maintaining adherence to health and safety standards.
About RantCell
RantCell turns your smartphone into a powerful network testing solution, delivering real-time insights on signal strength, speed, and latency. Designed for telecom professionals, it eliminates the need for expensive hardware while offering accurate performance data across any environment. Also read similar articles from here.
