4G - fourth generation mobile communications
What is 4G4G is the 4-th generation mobile communications technology standard. When implemented, users of 4G mobile devices will have the ability to access to application ranging from basic voice communication to seamless real time streaming video.
What technologies comprise 4G
Unlike previous standards such as 3G (third generation), the fourth generation 4G is based entirely on packet switched networks. In addition, all 4G networks will be digital and will provide higher bandwidths of up to 100 Mbps. 4G is actually a collection of previous standards as oppose to an entirely new standards. Standards such as 3G and Bluetooth will be incorporated in to the 4G mobile communications standard.
Why do we need 4G
One may wonder why 4G is needed when 3G has not yet been fully implemented. Firstly 3G’s maximum data transfer rate of 384 Kbps is much lower than 2 Mbps. The most influential reason for the fall of the 3G networks and rise of 4G networks is the cost related to the creation of 3G networks. In Europe and Asia, several companies have invested huge money on licensing and implementation of 3G Networks.
With its use of existing technologies and communication standards, 4G present a comparably inexpensive standard. 4G will utilize most of the existing mobile communication infrastructure. In addition, there will be less licensing costs in comparison to 3G since 4G will utilize frequencies deemed to be in the public domain.
What are the specifications of 4G
One may ask how 4G mobile communications can provide a 10 times increase in data transfer over 3G communications. This speed can be achieved through Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM). OFDM can not only transfer data at speed of more than 100 Mbps, but it can also eliminate interference that impairs high speed signals.
What are the potential applications of 4G
With its high bandwidth and incorporation of several standards, 4G will provide for a vast number of presently non-existent applications for mobile devices. Some believe that it will be possible for users to purchase groceries, watch movies, and open their garages all with one single mobile device. Experts have stated that 4G devices will differ from present day mobile devices in that there will be fewer navigation menus. Instead the devices will interpret the environment of the device and base actions on the users input. In addition, 4G will likely succeed where 3G failed and provide a seamless network for users who travel and require uninterrupted voice/data connections.
Comparing Key Parameters of 4G with 3G
Santosh Kumar
Chinmay Chandan
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