Roughly every 10 years a new generation of internet connectivity technology is rolled out, vastly improving performance, speed and capabilities. The UK is currently in the midst of transitioning from 3G to 4G with many providers rolling out the improved technology to personal users. Mobile technology experts are currently working on the 5th generation (5G) of internet technology with a view of releasing its first wave to the public within the next 5 years.
It may be another couple of years after the initial roll out before the UK widely adopts 5G with countries such as South Korea being the traditional torch-bearers for new internet technologies. David Cameron has signalled his intent to ensure that the UK is not left too far behind in adopting 5G however with an agreement put in place with Germany to initiate the technology.
The headline-grabbing feature of 5G is the increased speed which will reportedly allow users to download a film in just 1 second. This obviously will appeal to those who regularly download film, television and music content. Another key feature of the improved technology will see an improvement in internet connectivity for people travelling at high speeds.
Currently people attempting to connect to the internet whilst travelling aboard high speed transport modes such as bullet trains will struggle. With the planned HS2 rail link offering fast, direct transport through the heart of the UK, quality connectivity capable of performing at high speeds is necessary. This will greatly benefit the personal passengers who will use the transport link and enable real-life measurement and testing at high speeds.
Measurement and Testing Implications
At the forefront of designing and engineering the next generation of internet connectivity, a South Korean Science Ministry official revealed the importance of achieving a high speed internet connection capable of performing at great speeds: “Bullet trains around the World keep getting faster, with some in China running as fast as 500kmh and 600kmh. If we have the technology to allow fast internet access in these trains, it can open new opportunities for us globally.”
The new technology could aid engineers and scientists performing real-life tests in high speed situations, giving them accurate results that previously may have had to be simulated. Wireless testing equipment from MCS Test Equipment will be able to measure a number of different effects and factors at high-speed, utilising the improved internet connection. This will add accuracy and clarity to engineering research.
Stored on the Cloud
When 5G is rolled out in the UK, cloud servers will be far more prevalent than they already are throughout the country. Many parties are currently in a transition process, slowly making the switch from physical servers to the cloud. With more and more technologies being developed specifically with connectivity to the cloud in consideration, it will only become more and more commonplace.
High speed measurement and testing will be able to utilise the cloud to instantaneously store all data and results. Paired with the 5G connectivity, the data will be stored remotely to be accessed from a wide range of different devices and locations. Instantaneous storage on the cloud will allow other scientists to immediately work with the results. This could increase the efficiency of the process as it will allow for instant feedback, and parameter changes could be requested by the external team working with the results.
If David Cameron’s plan to make the UK a leading 5G force within Europe goes ahead, it could have significant ramifications with the possibilities afforded by greater connectivity allowing the nation greater freedom when utilising the internet either for personal or professional use.
