The arrival of 5G (= fifth-generation wireless network) connectivity will take Smart City applications an services to a new level and will bring huge value to integration of the citizen’s experience in usingthese services.

                   by PATTERSON CLARK   –  25 Feb. 2020

The What, When and How of 5G

A quick graphic guide to the wireless network that could reshape business, entertainment and cities.

In 2019, U.S. telecom companies began rolling out a fifth-generation wireless network, promising consumers faster and more reliable service on their smartphones and computers.

Beyond that lie even bigger potential transformations in driverless-car communications, business logistics, “smart cities” and health care. But the 5G buildout will be complicated; analysts expect nearly a million new “small cell” antenna installations over the coming decade, and China is racing to dominate 5G infrastructure.

Here’s an infographic guide to understanding just what’s new, and how the landscape is evolving.

What’s a “G”? How the mobile network evolved

Cellular technology makes a significant transformation about every 10 years.

Why 5G is causing battles for wireless spectrum

New and faster cellular technology needs whole new ways to use the airwaves. At the high-energy end of the microwave spectrum, “millimeter” wave frequencies can carry huge amounts of data but are easily blocked; lower-band frequencies carry less data but over longer distances. Much of the desirable “mid-band,” in between, is already allocated for government use, leading to tension in Washington. The different frequencies will require new infrastructure buildout.

To read on go to: the original article at www.politico.com
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