Airgain Unveils Integrated Modem and Antenna Platform for FirstNet

Airgain, a leading provider of high performance advanced antenna technologies, has introduced AirgainConnect AC-HPUE, the first antenna-modem from its AirgainConnect platform. AirgainConnect AC-HPUE includes an integrated FirstNet Ready™ high-power LTE modem supporting 3GPP Band 14 High Power UE output power functionality. Band 14 spectrum is the nationwide, high-quality spectrum set aside by the U.S. government specifically for FirstNet. This vehicle antenna-modem solution tightly couples essential LTE radio components to meet the most demanding needs of public safety and fleet vehicles.

By integrating an HPUE (High Power User Equipment) modem within an antenna assembly, AC-HPUE ensures transmission of the maximum allowable radiated power directly to the LTE antenna elements. AirgainConnect’s patented technology eliminates the signal loss over coax cables that run from mobile routers mounted in vehicle compartments to roof-mounted antennas, which combined with HPUE capability provides up to ten times the transmit power at the antenna when compared to the router’s conventional modem and antenna. The result is a dramatic increase in the coverage area and higher data rates.

Airgain has partnered with Assured Wireless Corporation to utilize the industry’s first FirstNet Ready™ certified Band 14 HPUE modem module in the AirgainConnect platform. FirstNet®, built with AT&T in a public-private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) is bringing advanced capabilities to first responders across the country. Integrated with Assured’s FirstNet Ready HPUE modem module, this ground-breaking technology will provide critical connectivity like never before. Not only will this provide better range in underserved rural areas, it also addresses a dramatic increase in coverage and higher data rates for deeper in-building penetration and other fringe areas.

Before being certified and approved for use on FirstNet, devices are subject to hundreds of tests that cover many key capabilities, from security and durability to network impacts. Only devices that pass these tests are certified and approved as FirstNet Ready.

According to Jacob Suen, President and CEO of Airgain, AirgainConnect is a breakthrough new platform that integrates high-power mobile modem technology with an antenna into the same package, enabling superior performance for 4G and 5G communications. They are thrilled to announce this new platform, which for Airgain represents a new level of advanced product solutions, enabling improved connectivity to those who need it most, the first responders.

Assured Wireless is the first company to obtain FirstNet Ready certification for an HPUE modem module. Early in 2020, Airgain and Assured Wireless entered into a strategic agreement, under which Airgain has limited exclusivity to the use of Assured Wireless’ HPUE modem module for integrated antenna device applications.

Click here to learn more about AirgainConnect AC-HPUE.