 - 4G is the short term for fourth-generation wireless, the stage of broadband mobile communications that will supercede the third generation (3G). While neither standards bodies nor carriers have concretely defined or agreed upon what exactly 4G will be, it is expected that end-to-end IP and high-quality streaming video will be among 4G's distinguishing features. Fourth generation networks are likely to use a combination of WiMAX and WiFi.
Technologies employed by 4G may include SDR (Software-defined radio) receivers, OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing), OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access), MIMO (multiple input/multiple output) technologies, UMTS and TD-SCDMA. All of these delivery methods are typified by high rates of data transmission and packet-switched transmision protocols. 3G technologies, by contrast, are a mix of packet and circuit-switched networks.
When fully implemented, 4G is expected to enable pervasive computing, in which simultaneous connections to multiple high-speed networks provide seamless handoffs throughout a geographical area. Network operators may employ technologies such as cognitive radio and wireless mesh networks to ensure connectivity and efficiently distribute both network traffic and spectrum.
The high speeds offered by 4G will create new markets and opportunities for both traditional and startup telecommunications companies. 4G networks, when coupled with cellular phones equipped with higher quality digital cameras and even HD capabilities, will enable vlogs to go mobile, as has already occurred with text-based moblogs. New models for collaborative citizen journalism are likely to emerge as well in areas with 4G connectivity.
A Japanese company, NTT DoCoMo, is testing 4G communication at 100 Mbps for mobile users and up to 1 Gbps while stationary. NTT DoCoMo plans on releasing their first commercial network in 2010. Other telecommunications companies, however, are moving into the area even faster. In August of 2006, Sprint Nextel announced plans to develop and deploy a 4G broadband mobile network nationwide in the United States using WiMAX. The United Kingdom's chancellor of the exchequer announced a plan to auction 4G frequencies in fall of 2006.
4G technologies are sometimes referred to by the acronym "MAGIC," which stands for Mobile multimedia, Anytime/any-where, Global mobility support, Integrated wireless and Customized personal service.
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Getting started with 4G |
| To explore how 4G is used in the enterprise, here is an additional resource: |
| Mobile and Wireless Protocols: This guide explains the various mobile and cellular technologies and protocols. |
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Learn more about WiMAX, 3G and Wireless Broadband |
| WiMAX tutorial: This tutorial explains WiMAX technology, applications and terminology. It also provides an overview of WiMAX services, performance, security and devices. |
| 1G, 2G, 3G, 4G: 3G wireless overview and history lesson. |
| Definitions: CDMA, TDMA and GSM: Definitions: CDMA, TDMA and GSM |
| 3G wireless: The long and winding road: In this tip, Lisa Phifer sorts out the cellular alphabet soup and looks at the complex history behind today's 3G wireless. |
| Mobile and Wireless Protocols: This Mobile and Wireless Protocols Guide explains the various mobile protocols and offers tips and advice for selecting and using them in your organization. |
| WiMax or LTE: Which is the future of wireless?: 4G wireless vendors are developing a competitive marketplace for the future by choosing two different technologies -- WiMax and LTE. |
| Using 3G phones for laptop Internet access: Learn how to use a 3G phone for laptop Internet access. |
| CDMA2000: A 3G mobile technology: CDMA2000 is a 3G mobile technology that includes 1xRTT, EV-DO Rev 0, EV-DO Rev A and EV-DO Rev B, and it competes with GSM technologies. |
| CDMA technology: An understanding of CDMA technology is critical for mobile managers when they are trying to select the best cellular solution for their enterprise mobile strategy. |
| Mobile Radio Systems: This chapter is an intro to the various mobile radio systems. It provides a foundation for comparing competing mobile radio access systems for supporting mobile broadband services. |
| WiMAX tutorial: This tutorial explains WiMAX technology, applications and terminology. It also provides an overview of WiMAX services, performance, security and devices. |
| Smartphone user review: Apple iPhone 3G: After much anticipation, Apple released its updated iPhone on Friday, offering a device that operates on a 3G network. |
| CONTRIBUTORS: |
Subhash Nigam and Peter Siljerud |
| LAST UPDATED: |
28 Aug 2008
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