5G • RAN
256QAM
256 Quadrature Amplitude Modulation
Very high order modulation mapping 8 bits per symbol for multi-gigabit throughput in clean RF environments.
Technical Explanation
256QAM maps 8 bits per symbol across 256 dense constellation points. Requiring high SINR (>22 dB) and low phase noise, it provides a 33% throughput increase over 64QAM and is standard in modern 5G downlink deployments and high-tier uplink.
Key Functions
- Encodes 8 bits per complex modulation symbol
- Delivers 33% throughput boost over 64QAM in high-SNR zones
- Requires advanced receiver equalization and low phase noise
Specifications
3GPP TS 38.211, TS 38.214
Interfaces
Uu
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