FCC Proposal To Enhance Development of 5G Tech

A proposal aimed at identifying and freeing wireless spectrum at very high frequencies is set to go under the vote at the Federal Communications Commission. The frequencies may be used for fifth generation or 5G cellular networks. Defining and development of 5G technology will be done in the same way as what the agency did with 4G LTE, according to FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler.

Wheeler said it is better for innovators to have freedom rather than letting regulators and committees define the future. The agency will make a suitable spectrum available and allow the private sector to create technical standards suitable for these frequencies. The announcement lays the foundation for next-gen wireless networks, which offers faster speeds and better coverage.

The speed achieved by 5G technology can be between 10 and 100 times faster than current 4G networks. While the standards for the new tech are still non-existent, it is expected to be used on just about everything, including remote surgeries, self-driving cars and virtual explorations of the human body.

A steady increase in the 5G hype was noted recently as wireless operators have started to demonstrate the technology and promised limited service before the end of the year. The proposal of the FCC opens ns additional spectrum for wireless provides to make the service available to consumers. Wireless operators may welcome the hands-off approach of the chairman in the development of a policy on the tech.

FCC Proposal To Enhance Development of 5G Tech - image credit: youtube.com

Wheeler also said the new proposal will be circulated within the week. If the proposal is passed, the US will become the first country to identify the spectrum designed for 5G service, which means it will remain a leader in wireless tech.

The ‘very high frequency spectrum’ is essential in the development of 5G tech since these frequencies are capable of carrying a huge volume of data. It is also capable of transferring signals at low latency or minimal delay. However, there are some challenges in the use of the spectrum. Signals travelling in this spectrum have range limitations and may not easily penetrate obstacles.

Part of the spectrum is currently being used for satellite communications as well as navigation services. The proposal will allow the FCC to work with satellite provides to ensure sharing of the spectrum with wireless providers who want to create 5G networks.

Wheeler said they are the pioneers of the new spectrum and they can work together to take another step towards a better technology for the benefit of society as a whole.

Posted by George Daniels on Tuesday June 21 2016, 10:24 AM EDT. All trademarks acknowledged. Filed under Technology. Comments and Trackbacks closed. Follow responses: RSS 2.0