5G Technology and its importance – India’s first 5G test bed (Prelims, Mains GS3)
5G Technology
5G Technology and its importance
- The fifth-generation mobile network is referred to as 5G.
- After 1G, 2G, 3G, and 4G networks, it is a new global wireless standard.
- It allows for the creation of a new type of network that connects virtually everyone and everything, including machines, objects, and devices.
- Internet speeds in the 5G high-band spectrum have been tested to reach 20 Gbps (gigabits per second), whereas the maximum internet data speed in 4G has been recorded at 1 Gbps in most cases.
- 5G mainly works in 3 bands, namely low, mid and high frequency spectrum
Uses of 5G
- 5G mobile technology can usher in new immersive experiences like Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) with faster, more uniform data rates, lower latency, and lower cost-per-bit, in addition to making our smartphones better.
- 5G can enable new services like remote control of critical infrastructure, vehicles, and medical procedures, which can transform industries
- 5G is designed to connect a massive number of embedded sensors in virtually everything by allowing data rates, power, and mobility to be scaled down, resulting in extremely lean and low-cost connectivity solutions.
- 5G could be a critical enabler of the fourth industrial revolution.
India’s first 5G test bed
- First 5G testbed that will enable start-ups and industry players to test their products locally, thereby reducing dependence on facilities abroad.
- It was a significant step toward self-reliance in the telecom sector in terms of critical and modern technologies.
- 5Gi, India's own 5G standard, will play a key role in bringing 5G technology to the country's villages.
- 5Gi is a Made in India 5G standard developed by IIT Hyderabad and IIT Madras (Chennai).
- 5G technology would also improve the country's governance, as well as the quality of life and ease of doing business.
- Every sector, including agriculture, health, education, infrastructure, and logistics, would benefit from this.
- This will also improve convenience and open up a plethora of job opportunities.
Challenges
- Low Fiberization Footprint- need to upgrade fibre connectivity
- A ban on certain foreign telecom OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), which are responsible for the majority of 5G technology development
- Spectrum Pricing at a Premium
- Critical infrastructures: 5G will necessitate a fundamental shift in the communication system's core architecture.
- There are fears that the introduction of 5G mobile service will interfere with aircraft navigation systems.
- Lack of suitable telecom companies with adequate capital
- Upgrades to the latest cellular technology are required to transition from 4G to 5G technology, putting consumers at risk financially.
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