The fifth generation of mobile telecommunications is known as 5G. The new communication standard is based on the 4G (LTE) standard, but it allows for far quicker data transmission with reduced latency, opening up totally new application areas.
5G is defined as
The preceding mobile communications standards GSM (2G), UMTS (3G), and LTE have all been replaced by 5G. (4G). The 3GPP standards organization is in charge of development and standardization, which has not yet been completed. The new communication standard encompasses a lot more than just digital telephone and high-speed mobile internet. It’s considered as a response to the rise in global data traffic as a result of digitalization, which is fueled by things like streaming.
The Internet of Things (IoT) and big data (IoT). For the first time, 5G is projected to create new norms in data speed, network capacity, reaction time, dependability, and data security, as well as enabling real-time data transmission. This opens up a slew of new application options, including IoT, self-driving cars, and Industry 4.0. (IIoT).
What is 5G and how does it work?
To yet, 5G technology requires a link to an existing 4G network to establish a connection, hence it is not self-contained. This is why the technology is known as 5G non-standalone (5G NSA). Only autonomous networks (5G standalone, 5G SA), updated transmission tower technology, and compatible devices will allow 5G to reach its full potential.
Faster data transfer is possible with higher frequency ranges.
In comparison to LTE, 5G uses new frequency bands and considerably more antennas. While LTE utilizes frequencies below 3 GHz, the 5G frequency range extends to 6 GHz and is expected to be increased in the future to cover frequencies ranging from 24 GHz to 100 GHz. This means that data transmission bandwidth is greatly increased. However, compared to LTE, comprehensive 5G coverage needs much more base stations. This is due to the fact that the higher the frequency, the more data that can be transferred through it. The range, on the other hand, shrinks correspondingly.
Network slicing: a network that is optimized for each demand
One of 5G’s most significant technological advancements is the ability to partition the network into application-specific layers based on requirements and to run many virtualized subnetworks at the same time. This is based on network functions virtualization (NFV) and software-defined networking technologies (SDN). The 5G network is “sliced” into multiple pieces, which is why it’s also known as “network slicing.” Each layer or slice is tailored to meet a certain need:
Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB): for the quickest connections and highest data speeds feasible (e.g., ultra-high-resolution video streaming)
Massive Machine Type Communication (mMTC): allows for as many connections as feasible at low data speeds and low energy usage (e.g., Internet of Things)
For the most dependable low-latency connections conceivable, use ultra-reliable low-latency communications (uRLLC) (e.g., self-driving vehicles and industrial automation)
This subdivision allows a wide range of applications to have access to the resources they require. The 5G network may be tailored to individual client groups, services, and market sectors in this fashion.
Radio coverage may be targeted with beamforming.
Active antenna technology known as “beamforming” increases radio coverage capacity and efficiency. Unlike passive antennas, which broadcast signals in all directions, active antennas on 5G towers may focus radio waves to specific devices within the transmission radius, allowing them to adapt to changing demands. LTE already uses beamforming to some extent, although in a less developed manner.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of 5G?
5G technology, in theory, allows for data speeds of up to 20 Gbit/s, or 20 times quicker data transfer than prior generations. At the same time, 5G promises latency periods of less than one millisecond, allowing data transfer in real time for the first time. Energy consumption is also projected to be lower than with 4G, and up to 1,000 times more devices per square kilometer should be viable. This offers up a slew of new options in both professional and personal settings.
Industry and business benefits and application areas
Machine-to-machine (M2M) communication has been improved for automation (e.g., wirelessly connected manufacturing robots)
The foundation for networked road traffic and self-driving cars is real-time communication.
Service levels and private campus networks provide network availability (for example, for emergency services) (closed 5G networks for local company sites, a university, or individual buildings)
Telemedicine is a type of telemedicine that (e.g., augmented reality, direct video connection, and smart meters)
Agriculture in the digital age (e.g., remote control of agricultural machinery and the use of digital measurement and control technology)
Consumer benefits and application areas
Page loading times are shorter and page loading is quicker (e.g., when browsing or streaming video)
Response time is quite quick (e.g., when online or cloud gaming)
The connection’s coverage and stability have improved (e.g., at large events or on a train)
Mobile telephony has been improved (voice over 5G)
For gigabit internet, there may be a viable alternative to fixed networks.
Real-time augmented or virtual reality, ultra-high-resolution live TV (5G transmission), and 4K video telephony are examples of new application fields.
Drawbacks
Consumers have seen little benefit from gigabit mobile communications so far.
There is still a lack of availability (especially in rural areas)
New equipment is necessary.
For consistent network coverage, more transmission antennae are necessary than with 4G.
The dangers of mobile radiation on one’s health have yet to be definitively resolved.
