Written by Jir Dara Akçan
As our technology with phones, computers, cameras, etc. improves exponentially our network systems do not fall behind. The differences between the cellular generations are genuinely distinct. 3G connections only support 2 Mbps of data transfer while 4G can offer up to 100 Mbps of data transfer for high-mobility communications and up to 1 Gbps for low-mobility data communications. It is almost a 500% increase in data transfer. 5G is even more advanced in this field. It supports virtually 10 Gbps speeds and even though with our infrastructure it will be very challenging to get to these speeds despite 5G supporting it, it is very exciting to think about it.
How It Works
Unlike 4G and previous cellular networks, 5G uses a different radio frequency spectrum. This made it so that phones need to be built with a specific 5G microchip. Three primary types of networks of 5G exist low-band networks that support a wide coverage but low speeds, high-band networks that deliver ultra-fast speeds but lack in distance, and mid-band networks that balance both speed and coverage.
IoT and 5G
As we continue to connect everything in our lives like watches, homes, and cars, The importance of IoT (Internet of Things) will grow. surpassing every industry. Today’s mobile networks (3G, 4G, and 5G) were originally developed for communication but they are proven capable of satisfying IoT’s demands.
5G in Healthcare
From simple administrative tasks such as transferring a file to very complex networking projects that can power robots that would test blood samples and disinfect rooms, 5G has huge potential in healthcare. With up to 10 Gbps of speed, the transfer of files would only take a second. Ambulances connected to hospitals can relay information about the patient it's carrying to the hospital so that the doctors can get ready for the patient with the right equipment.
5G in Autonomous Vehicles
As our knowledge of auto-driving increases, 5G proves to be only more useful. Since cars depend on continuous transmission of location and navigation, increased speeds and bandwidth help by speeding this process up.
Concerns and Conspiracy Theories Surrounding 5G
5G has fueled the most over-the-top conspiracy theories ever. One common concern is that electromagnetic rays emitted by 5G can cause burns, cancer, infertility, heart tumors, and Alzheimer’s disease. However scientific evidence does not support these claims. Another big conspiracy was that 5G was the reason for Covid-19. The only evidence for this claim was that they both started in 2019. Further research proves that viruses such as Covid-19 can not be created by EMT waves.
5G’s Role in Augmented and Virtual Reality
It is no secret that there is a high demand for the VR industry. There are obvious upgrades such as less latency, higher quality streaming to the headset, and Improved mobility for the users such that users can not step out of the data circle easily as in 4G.
5G and Industry 4.0
As the number of devices connected to IoT increases, we are getting closer to Industry 4.0. Manufacturing goes beyond production and into communication, analysis, and use of collected information to use it in further technology. 5G enhances every aspect of Industry 4.0 and helps us achieve it faster.
5G Around the World
Even though more developed countries have easy access to 5G, countries that are developing or countries that do not have advanced infrastructures can not access 5G. These countries are Russia and several countries in South America and Africa
Summary
The future of our cellular network is unpredictable as it progresses exponentially. It is more of a supporting technology that enhances other devices and helps them thrive. 5G is certainly a transformative force, harnessing it goes through making it worldwide. We discuss how 5G is redefining mobile connectivity, offering faster data speeds and a more seamless user experience. The integration of 5G with the Internet of Things (IoT) is also examined, highlighting its potential in shaping the smart cities and industries of tomorrow. A global perspective is presented, showcasing the countries leading in 5G deployment and their visions for the future. We also explore 5G's pivotal role in the era of Industry 4.0, where it drives automation, logistics, and supply chain management to new heights.
References:
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