5G Editorial & Guest Opinions

  1. What Can mmWave Do For 5G Backhaul? 10/9/2019

    The backhaul segment of the network is traditionally made up of the intermediate point-to-point links between the core (or backbone) network and the small subnetworks at the network edge, where the base stations are. Since 5G is aiming for multi-Gbps data rates for subscribers, all this data will need to be backhauled at much higher rates, too.

  2. Packaging For mmWave Devices — Why Do We Need It, And How Do We Do It? 8/19/2019

    Several package types can be used at mmWave frequencies, so the choice will depend on the specific application. However, some general design rules apply to all forms of packaging.

  3. 5G Core Network – Architecture, Network Functions, and Interworking 7/15/2019

    This article is dedicated to describing the main components of the 5G Core Network -- as defined by the 3GPP – including an overview of the architecture, a description of the key individual network functions, and an example of 5G interworking with LTE.

  4. A Look At 3GPP Rel-16: LTE and 5G-NR Enhancements 4/29/2019

    This article discusses the ideas and enhancements currently being developed for 3GPP Release-16, with a focus on selected Rel-16 work items and study items. These enhancements cover not only 5G-NR, but also LTE, which is being advanced in parallel.

  5. Understanding 5G Millimeter Wave Beamforming Test 4/15/2019

    This article explains beamforming in the context of 5G NR specifications, and introduces beamforming characterization and beamforming verification test.   

  6. Power Amplifier MMICs For mmWave 5G 1/14/2019

    This article looks at the semiconductor process and SMT packaging options for the realisation of power amplifier (PA) integrated circuits (ICs) operating at millimeter wave (mmWave) frequencies. It also presents examples of 5G mmWave SMT packaged PA designs.

  7. IMS 2018’s 5G Summit Examines Wireless Networks, Spectrum Policy, Autonomous Driving 6/25/2018

    Much like the 2017 event, this month’s IEEE International Microwave Symposium 2018 (IMS) was abuzz with talk of 5G applications, rollouts, and developments. But nowhere was that focus more singular than Monday’s (June 12) 5G summit, whose speaker lineup looked like a connectivity all-star roster.

  8. 3 Common Pitfalls Of 802.11ax DVT (That Test Developers Should Avoid) 4/2/2018

    The transition from previous 802.11 standards, such as 802.11n and 802.11ac, to 802.11ax adds several new technologies and performance requirements that need to be fully tested. However, there are a number of challenges in designing these test scenarios.

  9. Loose Lips Sink Gifts And Spaceships 1/8/2018

    Whether it’s a matter of national security or commercial success, a space plane or a sensor, brilliant people regularly refrain from trumpeting their astounding scientific achievements. It's not always easy or popular, but it's necessary, and I tip my hat top you, secret-keepers.

  10. 5G New Radio Architecture And Challenges 11/15/2017

    NR is billed as a more capable air interface, and will need to operate in both the frequencies below 6 GHz and above 24 GHz (mmWave) with a frame structure supporting both TDD and FDD, as well as operate in both licensed and unlicensed spectrum.