Argentina has apparently made plans to start allocating spectrum for private mobile networks. RegulatorEnacom has assigned the 2300-2400MHz frequency band for private mobile wireless broadband systems. The spectrum allocation will be for ten years and can be used for indoor or outdoor deployments, according to the resolution published on Monday.
Rates vary depending on whether the deployent will be indoor, outdoor or both, albeit outdoor deployments will be restricted to operator property, premises or a defined area where the operator carries out its work.
There may also be a bidding process if more than one applicant requests spectrum in the same operational area,
However, it does seem that the available bandwidth of 50-60MHz (below standards body 3GPP's recommendation of at least 80MHz) may slightly restrict 5G speeds.
Companies with the financial capacity to build and manage their own networks, in sectors such as mining, oil and gas, agribusiness, automaking, construction, ports and airports, and road and rail infrastructure are expected to apply. In fact some companies in these sectors already have private network infrastructure in place, but in partnership with mobile network operatorsMovistar andTelecom.
This model may be adequate for some companies. Indeed, the BNamericas new service, quoting José Otero, a consultant at ICT Development Consulting, suggests that the decision to build a fully private network or partner with an existing operator will depend on company size and financial strategy. Bigger companies are more likely to be able – and willing – to go it alone.
