AT&T
Currently, AT&T’s 5G network has three main parts. The first is low-band, which reaches more than 255 million people in the United States. The second is mid-band, which is similar to Verizon’s C-band network. And the third is millimeter-wave (mmWave). These three frequencies provide different speeds and capabilities.
With AT&T’s low-band network, you can access faster data and more reliable connectivity. It’s available in more than 16,000 cities. Compared to mmWave, low-band signals have a lower capacity, but they do have a higher coverage. In addition, these frequencies aren’t as visible as higher-band frequencies, so they’re more useful in dense areas.
The second part of AT&T’s 5G network is mid-band, which is a technology that’s similar to Verizon’s C-band spectrum. It’s expected to be in dozens more cities by 2022.
Meanwhile, the millimeter-wave (mmWave) 5G network is in 38 American cities, including Baltimore MD, Las Vegas NV, Indianapolis, MI, and San Francisco CA. This technology provides very fast speeds, but it’s only available in high-traffic indoor spaces.
Low-band, mid-band, and high-band spectrum
Generally speaking, the Low-band, Mid-band, and High-band spectrum of 5G is the three broad buckets that will shape future wireless networks. Each has its own strengths and limitations, and all three will play a role in the 5G ecosystem.
High-band is a spectrum band that provides ultra-fast download and upload speeds. It also serves as the foundation for machine-to-machine applications, as well as videoconferencing, augmented reality, and other innovative uses.
Low-band is a spectrum band that offers a wide range of coverage. The signal can easily pass through walls and buildings, and is particularly effective in rural areas. The signal can travel hundreds of square miles, making it an ideal band for 5G networks.
Mid-band is a spectrum band that covers frequencies between two and seven GHz. It is also a good candidate for high-capacity city-wide 5G. This spectrum provides a balanced compromise between fast speed and coverage.
This type of spectrum is also important for many college campuses, smart cities, and business parks. It is also compatible with international roaming, which helps to ensure global coverage.
Speeds
Various carriers are building and deploying 5G networks. There are several factors that can influence 5G speed. This includes the type of network and the RF channel. It also depends on the BS load.
The first thing to know is that the top 5G speeds aren’t attainable on day one. The technology will take some time to be fully implemented. This will include a new set of applications such as IoT, machine-to-machine, and smart stadiums.
In addition, the 3GPP specifications have to be followed to see the full benefit of 5G. This includes an average download speed of 1.4 to 14 times that of 4G. The maximum upload speed is only achievable when the device is connected to the 5G cell.
The most obvious benefit of 5G is the speed. This can be measured in gigabits per second or GBs per second. The top of the line speeds can be obtained with a dedicated fixed wireless access system.
The best 5G download speed is obtained when the user connects to a 5G cell that supports a million devices on the same cellular network. A 1Gbps connection can download an HD movie in under 36 seconds.
Industrial applications
Using 5G technology, industrial applications can improve the efficiency of on-site operations. It can also be combined with other technologies to enhance the overall operation of a company. In addition, the technology can be used to create new business models for industry.
For example, a factory in Nanjing, China, uses machine vision to check for defects on its factory equipment. Moreover, automated transportation in the workshop and finished product warehouse is made possible through 5G and IoT. The factory also uses low-latency sensors for preventative maintenance. The company reports that its productivity has been boosted by one percent.
In another example, China Mobile has partnered with firefighters to use 5G-powered drones for fire fighting. These drones are like firefighter eyes in the sky. The company has also rolled out 350,000 5G base stations in all Chinese cities.
Ericsson has joined with Fraunhofer-Institute for Production Technology (IPT) to explore the possibilities of 5G in the industrial sector. They are currently conducting tests to assess the potential of 5G in industrial applications. In particular, they are testing 5G sensor technology and other innovative technologies to enhance the safety and productivity of industrial processes.
