The wonders of dedicated 5g networks

The fifth generation of mobile networking, 5G, is the newest development in wireless communication technology. Not only is 5G the successor to previous generations – its immediate predecessor being 4G – but its speed, capacity, latency, and functions have all improved significantly. In addition, 5G has enhanced large data processing and device connectivity. This allows it to support all types of applications ranging from high-quality video streaming to real-time data analysis.

In view of their improved performance and new functions, 5G networks can provide new services, experiences and networking functions, and nearly unlimited possibilities for users.

For example, 5G has made huge leaps and bounds when it comes to the application and support of private networks. The 5G protocols formulated by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) contain key elements to support private networks. 

The functions for 5G include Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) and Mobile Edge Computing (MEC). Ethernet already supports TSN, which is employed in vehicles, manufacturing, and many other forms of real-time media transmission. TSN can ensure quick transmission times and prioritize network access to highly critical data. Recently published 3GPP standards have provided this function for 5G wireless technology. Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) is crucial for both privacy and latency. MEC ensures that traffic stays within a set of local nodes rather than being relayed to a centralized core and back. Improvements in 5G core standards make new applications possible.  

Special features of 5G private networks

Dedicated 5G networks are a unique function of 5G technology. Traditional, public 5G networks provide services for many users, whereas dedicated 5G networks are built for a single organization. Here are some of the many benefits of this special new function.

• Custom solution plans: Dedicated 5G networks can be customized to meet an organization's unique communications needs. Performance for specific tasks and applications can be optimized through this customization.
   
• Improved security: These networks are more secure because they’re not for public use. Businesses can implement strict measures to protect their data and communication.
   
• Reliability and low latency: Dedicated 5G networks provide reliable connections with extremely low latency. This is crucial for industries that require real-time applications, remote operations, and rapid response demands.
   
• Coverage and capacity: Dedicated 5G networks deployed at specific locations ensure full coverage and high capacity in areas where they are most needed, such as large manufacturing facilities or sprawling campuses.
   
• IoT management: Dedicated 5G networks are ideal for managing large IoT device networks. They allow businesses to efficiently handle various IoT deployments.
   
• Industry applications: These networks can be used for the manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics industries, to name a few. They facilitate innovations in services like smart factories and remote healthcare.
   
• Supervisory controls: When using dedicated 5G networks, businesses can better control compliance with specific industry regulations and standards.

For all of these reasons and more, 5G is clearly an advanced wireless technology. Many organizations have already adopted 5G and embraced its tailored solutions, enhanced security, connectivity, and compliance with industry-specific requirements.
 

Examples of private 5G network applications

As businesses and industries seek greater control over their network infrastructure to enhance connectivity and security, dedicated 5G networks are becoming increasingly popular. Here are some examples of how companies are using 5G private networks to meet industry-specific requirements and enhance their connectivity, efficiency, and security.

• Lufthansa Technik: Lufthansa Technik is a leading aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul service provider that has implemented a dedicated 5G network at its base in Hamburg, Germany. This network enables real-time monitoring and maintenance of aircraft using augmented reality (AR) applications. Technicians use AR glasses to receive real-time videos and technical information while repairing aircraft, thereby improving efficiency and accuracy.
   
• BMW Group: BMW has established a dedicated 5G network at its factory in Regensburg, Germany. This network supports interconnected and automated production processes, enabling seamless communication between robots and machines. This enhances the flexibility and efficiency of the production line while maintaining data security.
   
• Shell plc: Shell has deployed a dedicated 5G network at its chemical plant in Pernis, Netherlands. This network facilitates real-time data exchange between sensors, equipment, and control systems, thus helping optimize the refinery's operations. It helps improve safety, operational efficiency, and maintenance practices.
   
• Korea Western Power Co.: This South Korean energy company has established a dedicated 5G network to support its smart power plant project. This network enables real-time monitoring of power generation facilities and equipment, thereby improving energy efficiency and reducing downtime.
   
• Port of Hamburg: The largest seaport in Europe, the Port of Hamburg has deployed a dedicated 5G network to strengthen its logistics and transportation businesses. This network helps manage and coordinate the movement of containers, trucks, and vessels within the port.
   
• University Hospitals Birmingham: The University Hospitals Birmingham Trust Fund has deployed a dedicated 5G network at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, UK. This network supports a range of healthcare applications, including remote diagnosis, patient monitoring, and tracking medical equipment using IoT devices.
   
• Disney World Resort: Disney is exploring the use of dedicated 5G networks within its theme parks and resorts to enhance the visitor experience. These networks can enable augmented reality attractions, improve mobile services, and enhance the efficiency of park management.
   

Key elements of dedicated 5G networks

Similar to public 5G networks, dedicated 5G networks comprise many connected devices and systems. Processors, RFICs (Radio Frequency Integrated Circuits), and Interconnect, Passive, and Electromechanical (IP&E) connectors are key components for building dedicated 5G networks. Processors handle data and network management, RFICs enable wireless communication, and IP&E connectors establish physical connections to ensure reliable data transmission. These parts create powerful and highly efficient special 5G networks that deliver excellent performance, fast response times, and secure connections for various applications.

• Processors: Processors are private 5G networks’ computing powerhouses. They are responsible for coordinating data processing, network control, and real-time operations. They play a crucial role in ensuring efficient data management, quality of service (QoS) enforcement, and network coordination. Processors will continue to evolve with improved performance, integrated artificial intelligence, enhanced energy efficiency, and advanced security features.
   
• RFICs: RFICs boost communication in dedicated 5G networks by facilitating wireless connectivity, and optimizing signal quality and spectrum utilization. These integrated circuits are key to achieving seamless data transmission, frequency management, and support for emerging applications.
  Future trends for RFICs include higher data transmission rates, millimeter-wave technology, massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), and software-defined wireless functions. In addition, RFICs can implement beamforming, a technology that concentrates signals in a specific direction, enhancing coverage range and capacity. This is particularly important for specific applications in advanced dedicated 5G networks.
   
• Interconnect, Passive, and Electromechanical (IP&E) Connectors: IP&E connectors are the unsung heroes behind the establishment of physical links, maintaining signal integrity, and ensuring network reliability in dedicated 5G environments. They are crucial for building robust connections between processors, RFICs, antennas, and other network components. Future developments on the horizon include support for higher data transmission rates, miniaturization, enhanced reliability, and the potential rise of optical connectivity solutions.
   

Functions and future development of dedicated 5G networks and their key components

As market demand grows and technology advances, dedicated 5G networks will continue to evolve. In the foreseeable future, dedicated 5G networks will tailor more and more solutions for specific industries, help manage the growing IoT ecosystem, leverage edge computing for real-time processing, and integrate Industry 4.0 technologies. In addition, 5G networks will advance network slicing, optimize spectrum utilization, enhance security measures, and promote collaboration among stakeholders to achieve interoperability and industry-specific solutions. The evolution of regulations and policies will continue to influence the deployment and expansion of private 5G networks across various industries, paving the way for interconnected and highly efficient future collaborations.

The table below summarizes the key components of dedicated 5G networks, their main functions, and future development directions.

In summary, the wonders of dedicated 5G networks will continue to bring invaluable benefits to businesses and businesses’ end-users across almost all industries. And before we know it, 6G networks will arrive and usher in a new generation of advances in connectivity, efficiency and security.