5G is the fifth generation of wireless technology that is expected to be enabled in future devices, smart home applications, and self-driving cars, among others. The ultra-fast mobile broadband technology offers lower latency and increased capacity. While 5G networks are already being tested, they are unlikely to completely replace LTE and its variants any time soon.
Major Elements of 5G technology
- mmWave Spectrum: 5G networks are expected to operate in high-frequency bands of the wireless spectrum between a range of 28 GHz to 60 GHz. This range is called the mmWave or millimeter wave spectrum. LTE networks that operate in the sub-6 GHz range will also be used. This offers greater bandwidth to users.
- Smaller cells to be utilized for 5G networks: Unlike the huge cell towers that are dispersed in various locations for LTE networks and the versions that came before it, 5G networks will utilize small cells. 5G antennas are, thus, likely to be placed across cities and even in homes. 5G networks require small cells due to their increased data capacity. What users can expect out of this is improved battery life and performance since smartphones will use much less power to transmit data.
- Network cooperation: While every generation of mobile internet has offered increased speed and performance to users, 5G is expected to go one step above and also enable the utilization of emerging technologies for both consumers and businesses. That said, 5G networks will coexist with other standards like WiFi and LTE, while also coordinating with different site types like micro, macro, and pico base stations. To this end, a key challenge in 5G network design has been creating an architecture that allows this kind of flexibility, while also being able to meet the demands of emerging technologies.
- Advanced software and hardware requirements: In order to support 5G, existing hardware standards for networks will need to be upgraded. Gigabit WiFi technology will likely have a big role to play in supporting most smart home and multimedia applications. 5G networks will also require software-defined radio and upgraded modulation schemes.
When can we expect 5G networks?
As of early 2019, both Verizon and AT&T began testing 5G networks across the United States. While hardware and network vendors have begun trial testing the technology, 5G technology as a whole is expected to come into effect across countries by 2035.
