What is 5G?
In a nutshell, 5G is the newest digital wireless standard in telecommunications. Remember when mobile companies used to rave about being on a 3G or 4G network? Well, now there is 5G! A new kind of network that promises a lot of great and exciting things across various industries. Devices that allow for 5G wireless technology can provide higher multi-Gbps data speeds, reduced latency, a more reliable connection, and overall better performance and end-user experience.
How does 5G work?
5G uses the OFDM (Orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing) method (try saying THAT 5 times). Basically 5G uses a digital transmission method that transmits data through multiple carrier frequencies which helps reduce interference. The end result is a much more smooth, stable, and reliable wireless connection. It is important to note that 4G LTE wireless technology also operated on the same (OFDM) method, however, 5G also uses the newer 5G NR air interface - new radio access technology. 5G NR coupled with OFDM methods and greater bandwidth will allow 5G network access to more people and devices around the world. (Cool? Scary? ... not sure)
Why is 5G important?
5G has become such an important topic because of the potential impact it can make to almost every industry out there. Since 5G introduces the ability to provide greater bandwidth and improved speeds to cellular networks, it can connect more than just our cellphones. 5G networks will be able to connect laptops, desktop computers, and any other device with 5G wireless capability. 5G will make connecting devices easier and faster. With reliable internet being much more accessible and widely available, connecting devices and people will change the way we operate and also how we innovate without a doubt!
Other random 5G info
Will drones soon flood our skies collecting data? Will the IoT landscape change drastically? How will this new technology impact the AI and machine learning domains? Soooo many questions.
The truth is…. I don’t know. However, the Global Mobile Suppliers Association (GSA) has created a very cool database for tracking all the 5G device launches. Also, the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) offers a technology road map! These two orgs are great resources for keeping tabs on 5G.
Finally, I cannot conclude this blog post without addressing the latest conspiracy theory surrounding 5G and COVID-19. 5G DID NOT CAUSE CORONAVIRUS. #smdh.
Seriously though, there is a growing number of individuals who truly believe the COVID-19 outbreak is linked to 5G cellphone towers installed near Wuhan last year. This is 2020.
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Caroline Saavedra is the author and founder of Tekwomen.com.
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