introduction to 5g Networks

history of wireless technologies

In order to understand 5G networks, it is helpful to first understand the history of wireless technologies. Beginning in the early 20th century, what we now consider the 1st generation (“1G”) wireless or mobile technology was developed in the form of simple two-way radios and telecommunications, and supported the launch of early cell phones with basic analogue voice services (Mishra, 2010). Early cellular phones in the 1980’s cost thousands of dollars, were quite bulky, and were limited to their own internal networks (e.g., there was no such thing as “roaming,” and services provided through companies were not compatible with each other).

In the early 1990’s, the first commercially operated wireless system was launched, and included new digital features such as text messaging and international roaming; this was the 2G wireless network (Mishra, 2010). Next up was the release of 3G, which came with huge upgrades that continued to change the way we communicate with one another, including standardized network protocols between providers (enhancing connectivity between users across the globe), faster data transfer capabilities, and the ability to stream videos and experience video conferencing for the first time (Reinhardt, 2021).

In 2009, 4G was deployed, and quickly became the standard across developed countries, though there are still huge limitations to its coverage globally. The introduction of 4G meant that network users could now stream videos at a much faster speed and with higher quality (insert High-Definition streaming here), video chat with ease (hello, FaceTime), and facilitate web-based gaming in an entirely new way (Reinhardt, 2021). Wireless users now had access to cell phones, tablets, and computers, all seamlessly connected to the same integrated network. And although 4G has not been successfully rolled-out to all wireless network users, we are already shifting the focus to 5G networks, opening up doors to so many more possibilities...

For more information on how wireless networks actually work, and how they have evolved to the 5G landscape, watch this 6-minute video from Scientific America.

Source: https://exodusoutdoorgear.com/blogs/news/5g-is-coming-cell-camera-user-beware

"5G enables a new kind of network that is designed to connect virtually everyone and everything together including machines, objects, and devices."

- Qualcomm (2022)

what is 5g?

The 5G network is the newest iteration of wireless technology. The network offers lower latency and much faster data speeds, more reliability and availability, drastically increased network capacity, and a more uniform experience for all users. The product is a seamlessly integrated system of devices and users with no buffering, wait times, or lags. 5G networks are established in many parts of the world, but widespread integration is still a ways away due to infrastructure requirements (a huge consideration is that 5G networks can not run through existing 4G devices).

To see where the closest 5G network towers are to your city, check out the interactive OOKLA 5G MAP™. To see where 5G technology has been deployed by country, see the map below.

https://www.statista.com/chart/23194/5g-networks-deployment-world-map/

Five Functional drivers of 5g

There are five key ways that 5G technology is shaping the wireless landscape (adapted from World Economic Forum, 2020):

Enhanced broadband and faster connections. This means: better wireless services in buildings; real-time augmented, virtual or mixed-reality services; HD cloud-based gaming; remote medical surgeries and examinations; enhanced disaster response services; and massive streaming services.
More reliable, lower latency. This means: reduced data download times, and the ability to support things like self-driving cars, drones and robotic services, and factory automation, telehealth, and HD real-time gaming.
Enhanced security properties. This means: ultra-reliable services to ensure connectivity failure does not take place in critical situations.
Massive machine-type communications. This means: more devices can be connected more efficiently, supporting the “Internet of Things” and the creation of “smart cities” where everything and everyone is connected.
Power efficiency. This means: more efficient power requirements for huge interconnected systems, leading to lower costs for bigger networks.

what does this have to do with learning and teaching?

Though 5G may appear to be Silicon Valley-centric, implications for the education sector are massive. Where established, 5G is opening the door and providing access to technologies such as immersive experiences (via virtual, augmented, and mixed realities), assistive technologies for language learners (via real-time translation and video chat capabilities), and "levelling the playing field" by connecting learners and providing new opportunities for those located in rural or remote areas (T-Mobile, 2019). As the global 5G network continues to grow, learners and educators across the world will be seamlessly connected in virtual spaces, which no doubt will support many elements of the Classrooms of the Future that we have been introduced to over the past 11 weeks in ETEC 522.