Millimeter Wave

What is Millimeter Wave?

The short wavelength lets antennas be small and lets a lot of data ride on each channel. The cost is range. These waves are blocked by walls, leaves and even rain more easily than lower frequencies. The FCC's Part 30 rules for upper microwave flexible use name bands such as the Lower 37 GHz band, which shows the regulator treats these frequencies as their own family.

Exact frequency edges were not on the Part 30 page that loaded on 2026-10-15, so none are printed here.

Why does it matter on a fixed wireless connection?

Northern Nevada is large, open and uneven. A technology that works well across a block does not spread far across a valley, and a ridge in the way ends the signal. Mobile carriers use millimeter wave mostly in dense places such as stadiums and downtowns, which is why it appears in 5G home internet discussion.

A fixed wireless provider can use these frequencies for short point links where the path is clear, such as between two buildings. Whether High Desert does is not published.

Rain and fog absorb these frequencies more than lower ones, so the signal that works on a dry day can fade on a wet one. That is one more reason a provider that serves wide rural ground tends to choose lower frequencies for its main links.

What should I do about it?

If a salesperson offers a 5G or millimeter wave home service, ask the carrier whether its signal reaches your exact address, and test it indoors and in the spot where you work. Compare with fixed wireless versus satellite and with a wired plan if one is available.

To check a High Desert path, use Check my address or call 775-575-9593.