What is 5G Technology?

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Mobile communications are part and parcel of modern life. The anticipated launch of 5G technology in the near future will transform personal and business interactions. The current standard that the mobile industry relies on is 4G. It’s already more efficient than 3G technology that was capable of downloading a 5 MB music file in 15 seconds. Are you considering an informational technology degree? You’ll be in a position to explore how 5G technology can increase download speeds tremendously with shorter response times and yet use less power.

Ranking: 30 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degrees

Basics of 5G Technology

As the name indicates, 5G refers to the fifth generation of mobile networks, which is the next level from 4G LTE technology. Individuals and companies have become more dependent on mobile communications for virtually everything, including:

shopping
leisure reading
marketing
different forms of communication

The demand on networks has increased. It’s expected to escalate even further with more connected devices that have been designed to support the Internet of Things. With better connectivity through 5G networks, the download rate will improve. Access to networks will be enhanced even in places or events with a massive demand for online access. Download speeds may meet or exceed 10,000 megabits per second. This translates to roughly three times more than the current rate. For comparison, 3G networks had an average response time of 100 milliseconds. 4G networks averaged 30 milliseconds. Response time on a 5G fully enabled network will be down to 1 millisecond. In spite of faster downloads, 5G-enabled devices will use less power, which bodes well for battery usage.

How 5G Works

According to How Stuff Works, experts refer to 5G networks as millimeter wave technology. Why? Because it uses radio signals with wavelengths between 30 and 300 gigahertz expressed in millimeters. At this very high frequency, 5G networks will be capable of sending and receiving large amounts of data very quickly over a wide bandwidth. But there is a downside. High-frequency signals are saddled with shorter range transmissions. The technology as it stands today can project over a shorter span. Transmission through fixed obstacles such as walls and trees may cause a disruption. Technically speaking, 5G may be comparable to a line-of-sight design. The wireless modem or other device should be close enough to the base to access maximum transfer speeds. This advance technology may require the deployment of more base stations in service areas to provide the best transmission speeds. This technology will enhance latency or response time, possibly achieving an almost instantaneous response. Latency refers to the lag time between devices as one sends and the other receives. The latency for 4G networks is estimated at 70 milliseconds, which will be reduced to 1 millisecond latency when 5G technology is finally enabled.

The Power of 5G

The roll-out for 5G networks is expected to began recently. Initially, it will work side-by-side with existing 4G networks until the transition is completed. It may not be widely available until 2025. Initial targets for 5G upgrades include enhanced mobile broadband services for homes and businesses. It will boost machine to machine communications, including devices that are part of the Internet of Things. This is the technology that may revolutionize processes in the manufacturing and agricultural sectors. It will transform business communications in most industries. It will also usher in the robotics era. The almost-instantaneous response time will boost the functionality of driverless cars and other autonomous transport systems. On the community level, 5G is expected to drive the development of:

smart cities
smart homes
smart buildings

With an informational technology degree, you can become part of the transformation of modern life through 5G technology. You’ll be in a good position to find your niche as a: