CSG and Analysys Mason Study Reveals Growth Opportunities and Potential Pitfalls Facing Communications Service Providers Post COVID-19
Comcast Establishes 50 WiFi-Connected Lift Zones in Houston and Surrounding Areas
Axiata to commercialise Open RAN for network leadership across emerging Asia
Thales revolutionises IoT "out-of-the-box" connectivity to any cellular network worldwide
Research confirms the new IoT standard delivers the 5G promise for massive IoT
Pivotal Commware Selects Powermat Technologies as Wireless Power Supplier for Echo 5G Subscriber Repeater
IoT Challenger Announces World’s First Non-Cellular 5G Technology, Sets New Global Standard for IoT
Mouser Electronics Unveils 2021 Empowering Innovation Together Program with Debut Podcast on 5G Technology
Graphene for 6G Communications, Explores IDTechEx
Big Gains for Low-loss Materials in the 5G Market Reports IDTechEx
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Global 5G Coverage to Grow 253% by 2025 and Reach 53% of Population
Data presented by Bankr indicates that the 5G technology global coverage will grow by 253.84% in the next five years. By 2025, about 53% of the global population at 4.14 billion will have access to technology. Few regions are driving 5G technology uptake By 2021, the network coverage will reach an estimated 1.95 billion people representing about 25% of the global population. In the next two years, the network will be accessible to 32% of the global population at 2.5 billion. In 2023, 5G network is projected to reach about 39% of the global population at 3.05 billion people. By 2024, an estimated 46% of the global population at 3.6 billion will be using the network. The Bankr research highlighted the current state of the global 5G network. According to the research report: "The over one billion access to 5G coverage in 2020 is a culmination of a joint clear consensus on the 5G network by major players in recent years. The coverage is significant however, it is being driven by a select few regions in Asia, the US, and Europe. Other regions are still building the infrastructure to accommodate the technology. Notably, Asia is a current leader in 5G after undergoing a rapid migration in mobile broadband networks and smartphones setting the perfect ground for 5G adoption."
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HUBER+SUHNER extends its SENCITY Rail MIMO Antenna portfolio with dual-band GNSS services
HUBER+SUHNER has extended the capabilities of its rail rooftop antennas with its launch of the railway industry’s first embedded dual-band GNSS receiving antenna that meets all of the industries’ stringent requirements. Adding to its established SENCITY® Rail antenna portfolio, the new MIMO rooftop antenna enables railway operators to improve geo-spatial positioning and time precision of their operations. Supporting both the upper and lower GNSS bands, this latest innovation enables pin-point location accuracy for the most rigorous applications such as autonomous trains. With greater transparency of movement on the tracks, railway operators can now improve the operational planning of densely crowded railway tracks and metro lines. “The GNSS port on the antenna supports a higher number of satellite constellations. This enables operators to improve signal acquisition time, as well as reducing the impact of obstructions in order to increase efficiency on the tracks,” said Daniel Montagnese, HUBER+SUHNER Product Manager for Railway Antennas. “The GNSS port is complemented by two broadband Cellular and Wi-Fi compatible ports which can be deployed for a variety of different train to ground services.” The SENCITY MIMO Rail antenna supports the GPS, Galileo, BeiDou and GLONASS constellations. The antenna’s robust design also meets the stringent EN 50155 railway standard and is fire retardant according to EN 45545-2 and NFPA130.
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NGMN Alliance Publishes Second 5G White Paper
The Next Generation Mobile Networks (NGMN) Alliance published its second 5G White Paper and has launched further projects based on its conclusions. After the highly recognised NGMN 5G White Paper published in 2015, the NGMN Alliance followed up with another leading message to the mobile industry demonstrating how NGMN continues to drive the ecosystem forward. Whilst initial 5G services have been launched, there is much more underway to realise the full potential of 5G. The NGMN White Paper lays out how 5G is expected to increasingly enable new business models and many new use cases, and gives its recommendation on how to realise the full benefits of virtualisation, cloud, edge computing and more. One of the obvious conclusions is, that the industry must avoid fragmentation by adopting global standards with open, interoperable interfaces and application programming interfaces, thereby delivering the promise of agility and scalability. Some of the key elements the 5G White Paper 2 highlights are: • A common Operator platform architecture is desired in order to allow edge computing to be used on a global scale. • Mobile Network Operators are uniquely placed to provide a fully integrated solution for Verticals that encompasses networks, clouds and platforms, with dynamic customisation, partnerships, end-to-end management, carrier-grade security and efficient spectrum use. Mobile Network Operators and Verticals should increase their engagement to develop meaningful, mutually-beneficial partnerships and business models in order to fully deliver the 5G potential. • Increased focus needs to be given to further improving energy efficiency, sustainability, social wellbeing, trust, and to digital inclusion. Drawing on some of the challenges and actions identified in the White Paper, the NGMN Alliance recently launched two projects: Future Networks Cloud Native Platform, to create a holistic view on how network cloudification should be exploited, and Future Green Networks, to drive energy efficiency and carbon footprint reduction. Nick Sampson, Director, Wireless Access and Core Network Standardisation, Orange, and co-editor of the White Paper, mentions: “Building on NGMN’s first 5G White Paper, this document emphasises key actions to support the continuing delivery of the 5G promise, in terms of enabling new business models and opportunities, and achieving the required agility to meet a myriad of requirements from existing and new users.” Javan Erfanian, Distinguished Member of Technical Staff, Bell Canada, and co-editor of this White Paper indicates: “Following our 5G launch, we are pleased to continue working with the global industry and the entire ecosystem to drive and realise the full 5G vision for the benefit of all our customers. The NGMN White Paper 2 targets the next phase in this journey both to outline key requirements and success factors, including the new and extended value created and delivered by the mobile network operators working together with a broad partner ecosystem.” “The 5G White Paper 2 provides a guideline for the 5G evolution with new visions, new use cases and new challenges. Engagement with Verticals is identified and highlighted to fully realise the NGMN's 5G vision. This document further describes the unique and expanded role of the mobile network operator as a network and services provider. It is worthy of being the reference for producing 5G specifications and promoting the 5G ecosystem,” says Nan Hu, Lead Researcher and Manager of 5G Standardisation, China Mobile Research Institute, China Mobile, and third co-editor of the White Paper. Anita Döhler, CEO, NGMN, points out: “The NGMN White Paper 2 describes the 5G objective of enabling and contributing to prosperity and productivity with significant energy and resource efficiency, sustainability, social wellbeing, trust and inclusion and promotes the engagement with the wider ecosystem to fully address the 5G outreach. I would like to thank everyone who worked on this position paper, which is a very valuable asset for the overall industry. As stated above, our White Paper kicked off several new activities already. This is an exciting time to be joining the NGMN Alliance and I look forward to continuing on the journey to 5G success and beyond.”
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Unite Communications’ TextMeAnywhere Solution Helps Retailers Manage COVID-19 Curbside Pickup Logistics Through Text
Unite Communications’ recently launched TextMeAnywhere solution helps retailers manage customer curbside pickup during COVID-19 by introducing an easy to use web application that transforms an existing landline, VoIP, or Toll Free number of a business into a textable number. COVID-19 physical distancing orders mandate that retailers reduce store capacity so customers can remain two meters apart. Curbside pickup is a great option for customers that want to purchase an item online and pick up the same day without having to go into the store. Retailers have had to quickly adapt to adopt this new option, frequently running into logistics issues when their business phone numbers are landlines. They have had to ask staff to manage multiple phone calls, send emails that get stuck in spam, or purchase mobile phones and numbers to not have to ask staff to use their personal mobiles. “TextMeAnywhere turns the business number into a textable number and allows staff to easily chat with customers on the web application. The business number is likely already stored in the customer's phonebook, so they know who is texting. SMS messages see a 98% open rate whereas emails only see 20% and are the preferred method of communication by most customers,” says Brian Presement, CEO of Unite Communications. Retailers deemed essential had an advantage because they were forced to adapt from the beginning and provide curbside pickup as the only option, but now other retailers are beginning to follow. Curbside pickup is an easy, convenient option to offer customers and the TextMeAnywhere solution makes the logistics behind it just as easy and convenient for any retailer.
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HomeGrid Forum accelerates G.hn deployment with its member Comtrend launching three new products for broadband connectivity
HomeGrid Forum is celebrating the advancements of G.hn technology in Gigabit broadband access as leader in advanced networking solutions and member of the alliance, Comtrend, unveils a new range of G.hn adapters – enabling users to extend their local area network through existing powerlines, reducing operational costs and the need for additional infrastructure. By utilizing MaxLinear’s G.hn Wave-2 networking chipset, the new family of PowerGrid solutions offers the best performance over in-home electrical wiring, with data rates four times higher than legacy powerline technologies. “We are delighted that Comtrend has successfully deployed G.hn technology into its new line of products and are confident that our continued collaboration will unlock more opportunities and future advancements in line with ever-changing consumer demands,” said Dr. Len Dauphinee, HomeGrid Forum President. “This announcement builds upon the impact that G.hn has already had globally and together we are working hard to expand the use of G.hn and ensure complete compliance, interoperability and reliability through our highly regarded certification program.” The complete range, including the PowerGrid 9180dc, the PowerGrid 9181PoE and the PowerGrid 9183, incorporates G.hn technology and features end-to-end encryption algorithms to ensure a highly secure powerline network. Delivering a 2-in-1 solution with a Direct Current (DC) output of 30W for a multitude of home gateways, set-top box (STB) and Wi-Fi Access Points, the PowerGrid 9180dc is available in EU and US plug versions and has been granted CE, FCC and UL certifications. Eliminating the need for additional wiring, the adapter comes pre-configured to allow convenient installation in a matter of minutes. Designed for IP security surveillance, the PowerGrid 9181PoE features two integrated 802.3at PoE ports efficiently providing both data and power to IP cameras and other PoE devices. It also supports TR-069 for remote management allowing Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to remotely monitor and reset PoE outputs to promptly resolve any issues with the subscribers home network – resulting in increased customer satisfaction and reduced operational costs for the ISP. Providing a single concentration of wired servers in one place – including Network Attached Storage (NAS), Media Servers, Network Video Recorder (NVR) and Printer servers – and supporting G.hn Wave2 technology with 100MHz MIMO operation, the PowerGrid 9183 G.hn/4-port Giga Switch offers quick and easy installation and can be used with two fully-programmable reception and transmission paths to achieve up to 2Gbps over powerline. “With significantly higher data rates and lower latency, G.hn powerline technology provides a more stable home network backbone,” said Frank Chuang, Vice President of Marketing for Comtrend. “This eliminates the need to install wired Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi backhaul devices, reducing costs for network operators.” HomeGrid Forum and its members have been working on the development and global deployment of G.hn technology and ensures compliance and interoperability of silicon and systems through plugfests and rigorous testing across the entire eco-system.
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Infinet Wireless Installs High-Bandwidth Network Upgrade for Netsol CONNECT to Service Businesses Across Pakistan
Infinet Wireless, the global leader in fixed broadband wireless connectivity, has upgraded the connectivity network of NetSol CONNECT, a leading Pakistan-based networking consulting and integration firm, to improve performance and robustness with the aim of satisfying the day-to-day operational demands of the country’s leading businesses. NetSol CONNECT – a subsidiary of NetSol Technologies, the first and only Pakistan-origin company listed on NASDAQ – enlisted Infinet Wireless to overhaul its legacy infrastructure, which was not able to meet the high-bandwidth and reliability demands of its ‘digital-first’ customers. These requirements included a growing reliance on virtual meetings, real-time secure access and sharing of data files across multiple sites and other business, and financial and security applications relying on a stable Internet connectivity. Over a period of 12 months, NetSol worked with Infinet Wireless to deploy dozens of high capacity point-to-point links. The company selected Infinet Wireless’ InfiLINK 2x2 LITE for capacity requirements of up to 50Mbps, and a mix of its XG500 and Quanta 5 solutions for capacity requirements of up to 500Mbps. “Many of Pakistan’s premier businesses in the banking, manufacturing and industrial sectors rely heavily on our wireless networks to seamlessly conduct their day-to-day operations, better serve their own customers and compete with their global peers,” said Babar Shafiq, Chief Technology Officer at NetSol CONNECT. “Driven mainly by our customers’ increasing bandwidth demands, we selected Infinet Wireless to upgrade our network as it has one of the broadest portfolios of high-bandwidth wireless solutions available in today’s marketplace. These solutions surpassed all our expectations during the proof of concept we conducted early on in the process, and fully met our critical needs such as availability, reliability and consistent performance.” As the majority of NetSol CONNECT’s deployments are in congested cities, often with difficult topologies, the decision-making team required a solution that offered extensive interference mitigation and the ability to function without interruption even in Non-line-of-sight (NLOS) conditions. Infinet Wireless’ solutions have an advanced Instant Dynamic Frequency Selection (i-DFS) technology which allows automatic frequency channel change with zero downtime, in case of interference. “NetSol CONNECT is laser-focused on customer satisfaction and providing our customers with products and service of the highest quality and value possible. Partnering with Infinet Wireless is enabling us to make good on this commitment,” added Mr. Shafiq. “Furthermore, Infinet Wireless’ solutions offered us the best price-performance ratio – given the extremely price-sensitive market we operate in, this was a very important factor in our decision-making process.” Kamal Mokrani, Global Vice President at Infinet Wireless, said: “Thanks to our direct presence in Pakistan, we were able to work closely with NetSol CONNECT right from the very beginning of the project, gaining a better understand of the issues they were faced and designing a comprehensive platform to overcome them from day one. The main issues were related to a high level of radio interference and the added difficulty of connecting points-of-presence in non-light sight conditions. “We significantly increased the overall reliability of their infrastructure and reduced downtime to almost zero. This was achieved by the advanced technology we have designed over the years, one which is capable to operate non-stop even in the most difficult terrains and weather environments. We delivered to NetSol CONNECT a brand-new network that will enable it to not only meet today’s growth for its business, but also cater for new requirements well into the future.”
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Worldwide 5G Connections to Grow 20x to 2.7bn by 2025
Data compiled by Finbold.com shows that in the next five years global 5G connections will be 2.7 billion. According to the data, this will be a growth of at least 20 times from this year's 120 million connections. 5G Connections to keep growing The data projects that by next year, the connections will grow by 180% to stand at 340 million. By 2022, the connections will be 810 million and later grow by 72.8% to hit 1.4 billion in 2023. In the next four years, the connections will stand at 2 billion and later increase by 35% to stand at 2.7 billion by 2025. 5G is the 5th generation mobile network with a new global wireless standard following previous connections of 1G, 2G, 3G, and 4G networks. With 5G, the network is designed to connect virtually everyone and everything including machines, objects, and even devices. According to the report: “However, with the 5G network imminent, there have been concerns about the network’s potential impact on human health. There are still controversies that the network carries a dangerous escalation of traditional cellular technology that comes with higher energy radiation that causes potential damaging effects on human beings.” Globally, companies are moving to establish 5G connections as a way of reaping the full benefits of the technology. Big players in the technology world have filed patents concerning the network with Asia taking the lead. By February 2020, China’s Huawei had 3,147 filings followed by Samsung at 2,795.ZTE is third with 2,561 total patents while South Korea’s LG has 2,300 total patents filed. Elsewhere, Nokia has 2,149 patents while Erickson has 1,494. From North America, Qualcomm has filed 1,293 patents while Intel has 870 filings.
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New MERICS Study on Export Controls and the US-China Tech War
After a year in which the United States heaped pressure on European countries to ban Chinese telecommunications group Huawei from their 5G networks, the gradual rollout of US export controls on emerging technologies is likely to create new strains in the transatlantic relationship over how to handle China. On January 3, Washington began unveiling new export control proposals aimed at restricting China’s access to sensitive technologies — from artificial intelligence and quantum computing, to 3-D printing and semiconductor manufacturing equipment. The US is asking allies in Europe and elsewhere to follow its lead and there is a risk that it could employ secondary sanctions to raise the pressure if they fail to do so. In light of this situation, European governments must urgently formulate their own approach to technology transfers. If they fail to do so, Europe risks being thrown onto the defensive by Washington. There is also a risk that the US push to curb technology exports aggravates divisions between member states and undermines the European Commission as an actor on trade. Over the past years, EU states have given the Commission a formal mandate to explore 5G security risks and develop an investment screening mechanism. It is high time to take a similar approach on emerging technologies, writes Noah Barkin, former visiting academic fellow at MERICS and author of the MERICS China Monitor “Export Controls and the US-China Tech War — Policy challenges for Europe”, published today. Based on numerous discussions with high-ranking representatives of the US government, European institutions and member states, Barkin argues that advanced technology-producing states in the EU that are directly affected by US controls must coordinate their actions better, explore new structures that respond to challenges at the nexus of trade, technology and security, and ramp up engagement with allies in Asia, which are facing the same pressure. Bringing experts from academia and business into the discussion is also urgent. The author urges member states to swiftly resolve a three-and-a-half-year stalemate over reforming the EU’s own dual-use export control regime and pivot to emerging technology challenges, pushing this up the political priority list during the German presidency of the EU in the second half of 2020. Mounting policy challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic are likely to distract from this effort. European concerns that US export controls are part of a push to contain China’s technological rise could also dissuade European capitals from tackling this in a proactive fashion. But developing a coherent, joined-up approach to emerging technologies is the best way for Europe to assert its own sovereignty and deliver on its promise to become more of a geopolitical player, instead of a powerless pawn in the US-China competition. Washington is demanding support for its technology curbs in bilateral talks and in multilateral export control regimes like the Wassenaar Arrangement. The author warns that the Americans could soon lose patience in building what they call "coalitions of caution" towards China. European companies could then be threatened with secondary sanctions. He gives the example of the Dutch company ASML, which has been unable to deliver its most advanced semiconductor manufacturing machine to a Chinese client amid an intense pressure campaign from Washington aimed at the Dutch government.
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5GLIVE to advance 5G potential across industries worldwide
5GLIVE will showcase the most innovative, cutting edge 5G use cases across a range of industry verticals, when the show launches later this year. Total Telecom's brand new event will shine a spotlight on the transformative potential of next generation connectivity across a range of verticals, including transport, manufacturing, finance, healthcare, utilities and media. 5GLIVE will be held at the ExCel, London from September 23-24, and will explore how 5G will enable new, agile business models and the development of 5G-enabled products and services. The event will bring together 400 leading industry speakers from the likes of Bosch, Deutsche Telekom, E.ON, Telefonica and UEFA, acting as a one stop shop for industry buyers and sellers alike. “We are thrilled to be hosting leading industry experts and operators at 5GLIVE to further accelerate the innovation potential of 5G across the global economy.” said Rob Chambers, Managing Director at Total Telecom. “The event will showcase how 5G will be the cornerstone of Industry 4.0. The initial response to 5GLIVE has been outstanding and we look forward to welcoming the people driving the future digital economy.” 5GLIVE will gather over 2,000 people from CSP’s and multiple vertical industries, 800 organisations and over 50 world-renowned keynote speakers. They include the CTO of Swisscom, the CCO of GE Power, CEO of BT Enterprise and SVPs from Lego and Deutsche Telekom. The event will comprise ten dedicated content streams including 5GPLACES – to focus on the inevitable advancements of the future for urban living; 5GTRANSPORT – looking into the value of 5G networks from both a private and public perspective of transport, and how these can drive connected and autonomous vehicles; 5GFINANCE – looking at the benefits of 5G connectivity for the finance and banking ecosystem. 5GLIVE will have over 250 partnering companies including sponsors, exhibitors and start-ups. It will also include a new 5GSTARTUPS stage for technology disruptors to pitch to VCs and Investors to explore new areas of development. Free tickets are available for attendees in the Telecoms, Manufacturing, Health, Utilities, Transport, Agriculture, Media, Finance and Public Sector industries. Interested attendees can register for 5GLIVE on the website.
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Ranplan announces partnership with China Unicom
The Network Technology Research Institute of China Unicom – one of the world’s largest mobile operators with more than a quarter of a billion active subscribers – has selected Ranplan Wireless as a preferred supplier for a complete platform for HetNet design, optimization and management. The announcement of an initial order for USD 400k was made after extensive commercial and technical evaluation. China Unicom’s Technology Research Institute will be using Ranplan Professional to plan, simulate and optimize small cell and DAS solutions for in-building and dense indoor/outdoor urban environments such as stadiums, campuses and business districts. They will also use Ranplan Collaboration Hub, a cloud-based project management and workflow tool, along with Ranplan Tablet for onsite in-building site surveys, building modelling and simulating in-building coverage performance predictions. By using intelligent building and network modelling along with automated design techniques, China Unicom engineers will be able to speed up network planning time and reduce the costs of deployment. Ranplan Professional is an all-in-one, heterogeneous planning, optimization and simulation solution for 3G, 4G and 5G NR small cells, DAS and Wi-Fi networks across indoor and outdoor environments, which also integrates with macro-cell networks. The Technology Research Institute is a subsidiary of the China Unicom Group and is engaged in cutting-edge technology and application tracking, development strategy research, market and management research. It is also building a new technology business development and product incubation base for the Chinese wireless communications market to enable new breakthroughs and drive technology innovation. “We are very proud to have won the trust of one of the world’s largest mobile operators at a critical junction in the transition from 4G to 5G, characterized by an increased emphasis on cellular indoor mobility in close coordination with the outdoor environment,” said Per Lindberg, interim CEO of Ranplan Group AB. “It is our hope that China Unicom, as well as its ecosystem partners, will benefit from our suite of software that not only helps perfect the initial deployment of radio nodes, but also their subsequent performance within day-to-day operations.”
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“Advanced fiber networks are critical to address exponential 5G demands,” urges INNO Instrument America Inc. at ISE Expo 2019
USA 24 September – 5G networks are long anticipated to bring about faster speeds, improved network performance and more reliable services for consumers, but it will also place huge pressure on the existing wired infrastructure, according to Gil Perez, Director of Sales North America at INNO Instrument America Inc. With rising data demands that are expected to escalate exponentially due to extended 5G services, operators need to seriously consider advancing fiber deployment to deliver a network service which does not collapse under piling data and bandwidth demands. Mobile data traffic is anticipated to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 28.9% to surpass 1,307 exabytes on an annual basis in 2025, according to ABI Research. It is more important than ever for operators to continue extending fiber network deployments fast to keep up with this rate. In addition, 4G and 5G subscribers will represent 55% of total subscriptions in 2025 and will account for 91% of the total traffic generated. Extending fiber now will be integral for meeting future customer demands on networks. “5G must deliver a further step in the capacity of wireless networks, over and above that currently being delivered by 4G. No network has infinite capacity, but operators need to move closer to the ideal of there always being sufficient capacity to meet consumer’s needs,” said Perez. “Fiber is the preferred option for 5G because of its scalability, security and ability to handle the vast amount of backhaul traffic being generated. It can handle the increased speeds with lower attenuation and offers practically unlimited bandwidth potential - making it the perfect option for operators to future-proof their networks.” 5G offers an unprecedented leap in bandwidth speeds compared to the previous generation. But before 5G networks become prevalent, network infrastructure needs to be reliable and continuously support thousands of devices as well as manage the data collected and transmitted by these devices. Due to this 24/7 data collection and transfer, there are huge demands made on networks including higher network availability levels, full wireless network coverage, lower latency and higher bandwidth capabilities – all caused by an influx of connected devices. “Before operators make the jump to offering 5G services, they need to ensure that their existing network infrastructure has the capability to keep up with the ever-increasing demands, added Perez. “At INNO Instrument, our field-proven and clever yet intuitive methods and procedures ensure that network operators have the expert knowledge and tools needed to deploy reliable and cost-effective FTTx networks.” INNO Instrument America Inc’s extensive range of leading optical communications products and testing solutions, are designed with the industry’s biggest challenges in mind. With cost and reliability at the forefront, the company offers a whole host of innovative solutions to speed up the rollout of FTTx networks and ensure that 5G is a possibility worldwide. At the upcoming ISE Expo, INNO Instrument America Inc will be showcasing its most powerful and innovative premium core-alignment fusion splicer, View 8+ and the View 12R-200 mass fusion ribbon splicer, which has the capability to splice 200 micron fibers.
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WBA & NGMN Examine Options for Convergence, Management of Wi-Fi6 & 5g
London, UK, 3 September 2019: Mobile operators today received further verification that Wi-Fi will play a critical role to the success of 5G, as illustrated in a new white paper developed by the Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA) and the Next Generation Mobile Networks (NGMN) Alliance. Developed with input from mobile carriers, telecom equipment manufacturers and Wi-Fi advocates, the WBA & NGMN Joint Task Force: RAN Convergence White Paper explores the importance of existing and future Wi-Fi and cellular convergence, highlighting techniques that enable convergence and identifying solutions to bridge technology gaps. According to the paper’s findings, mobile operators will benefit from the convergence of Wi-Fi and 5G by gaining improved visibility into Wi-Fi networks, affording them the ability to control customer experience, deliver better services to customers and provide enterprise Wi-Fi network management solutions to enterprise customers. Wi-Fi operators, meanwhile, will benefit from convergence by gaining improved visibility and transition management as they operate overlapping cellular and Wi-Fi networks, ultimately resulting in an improved user experience. Additionally, enterprise Wi-Fi networks will gain the ability to access operator-provided 5G services. Importantly, the paper also identifies new business opportunities created through the convergence of Wi-Fi and 5G at the network and RAN layers, including enterprise use cases, manufacturing, public hotspots and residential applications. Some of the key use cases covered in the paper include: • Convergence of 5G and Wi-Fi for Enterprise Wi-Fi: Currently, most enterprises use Wi-Fi technology to provide wireless access to employees, contractors and visitors. The paper identifies three scenarios for convergence of Wi-Fi and 5G to ensure a diverse set of deployment scenarios and business opportunities for both Wi-Fi providers and mobile operators. • Factories of the Future: Industry 4.0, or the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is driving a significant increase in the amount of data that traverses the network, especially in low-power wide-area networks (LP-WANs). At the same time, manufacturers increasingly are incorporating machine learning (ML), artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), advanced analytics and automation into their processes. The paper provides a deployment scenario for a manufacturing environment in which the convergence of 5G NR and Wi-Fi are used to provide improved connectivity, traffic routing and support for Wi-Fi devices with and without identity credentials. • Connected Cities: Enterprises and cities increasingly are deploying Passpoint-enabled Wi-Fi hotspots to provide the public with Internet connectivity. The paper includes two scenarios that illustrate how the convergence of Wi-Fi and 5G will enable enterprises and cities to create contiguous Wi-Fi access through the use of public hotspots. • Residential Connectivity: A variety of devices are used by consumers to deliver Wi-Fi connectivity for both mobile and fixed devices in the home, including Ethernet, powerline and Coax. Additionally, residential local area networks (LANs) increasingly are connected with community Wi-Fi service, while femtocells are used to bolster connectivity in certain deployments. The paper provides a scenario for providing a mix of traffic within the home Wi-Fi network and femtocell 5G deployments. The paper concludes that a new set of 5G use cases and verticals may require combined resources from both cellular and Wi-Fi networks. This will provide cost-effective solutions that meet diverse sets of requirements on throughput, latency, connection density, coverage, availability and reliability. This is especially important for smartphones that carry a significant amount of data traffic by accessing Wi-Fi. Convergence of Wi-Fi and 5G will lead to better user experience for smartphone customers and create new business opportunities for both Wi-Fi and mobile operators. Additionally, the paper addresses a number of challenges that exist when integrating Wi-Fi and cellular networks in enterprise, residential and public Wi-Fi deployments. In particular, the paper explores the benefits of creating a standardized interface between Wi-Fi and cellular networks to improve end-to-end network performance, elevate user experience and, ultimately, empower both mobile and Wi-Fi operators to create new business opportunities utilizing the converged technologies. “Mobile and Wi-Fi operators, equipment manufacturers and end users all stand to benefit a great deal from the continued convergence of Wi-Fi and cellular networks, especially with the release of Wi-Fi 6 later this year and the continued development of 5G networks,” said Tiago Rodrigues, General Manager, WBA. “As the paper highlights, convergence of 5G and Wi-Fi 6 in the RAN is vital for 5G coverage in dense locations and indoor deployments, giving stakeholders the ability to cost effectively improve performance, while ultimately improving return on investment (ROI) for mobile operators.” Sanctioned by the top 38 mobile operators around the world, the paper continues work between WBA and NGMN to identify business opportunities, challenges and key use cases made possible through the convergence of Wi-Fi and existing cellular networks, as well as future 5G network deployments. Input was provided by a number of mobile operators, including BT, Orange, Rogers and US Cellular. Leading telecom equipment manufacturers that provided input include Intel, Broadcom, Cisco, Accuris Networks and Huawei. “The work we’ve done with WBA to identify new use cases and challenges in the convergence of Wi-Fi and 5G is beneficial for operators, vendors and end users,” said Peter Meissner, CEO, NGMN Alliance. “It is through initiatives like this one that our industry solves important issues and ensures the success of technologies for the future.” The WBA and NGMN intend to continue exploring convergence of Wi-Fi and cellular technologies, with input from 3GPP, IEEE and the Wi-Fi Alliance. Operators and network equipment manufacturers that are interested in contributing to future reports can contact the WBA or NGMN for additional information.
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Broadband wireless access leader embodies seamless integration, flexibility, performance and stability in a fresh logo for the new digital era
“Having started operations in 1993, Infinet has built a strong reputation and significantly grown its business revenue across many parts of the world. Our history is one steeped in innovative research and development – whether it be to meet constantly increasing demands from our loyal customer base for higher capacities and lower latencies or mitigate interferences in difficult radio environments, Infinet has been one of the first wireless vendors to launch new and flexible solutions,” said Dmitry Okorokov, CEO, Infinet Wireless. “Our reputation is a valuable asset, but our previous identity no longer accurately reflected our company’s complex array of carrier-grade wireless solutions and our flexible approach to dealing with partners and end users. The new image we are launching today will capture both aspects effectively, positioning us for the future.” A case in point is Infinet’s latest family of Point-to-Point (PTP) and Point-to-Multipoint (PTMP) solutions. Based on its proprietary Software Defined Radio (SDR) technology, these solutions offer the highest spectral efficiency available in the wireless marketplace today, mitigate interference in all key unlicensed frequency bands and enable customers to benefit from available spectrum in bands such as 26-28GHz and 70GHz. This results in the company’s solutions being widely considered as the ideal fit for cost-conscious service providers and organizations of all types which are looking to capitalize on the potential of 5G. “While we are extremely proud of our heritage, it is important to evolve not only technologically, but visually. For us to continue innovating in everything we do and to deliver advanced technological platforms to an already fast-moving wireless market, our brand identity must reflect our capabilities and ambitions,” continued Dmitry. The company’s new logo captures the concept of seamless integration in the digital age, depicting an abstract representation of two nodes interacting as part of a single network. The orange and blue nodes take the shape of outward facing arrows, denoting Infinet’s strategic intent to adapt to market demands and achieving its growth objectives, whilst the overall shape of the symbol is reminiscent of the universal mathematical symbol for infinity, highlighting the company’s commitment to continuous innovation and pushing the wireless technology beyond its limits. The logo’s colour scheme uses azure blue to represent clear skies and water, symbolizing harmony and simplicity. The orange colour reflects energy and openness, while the dark-blue stenciling of the text is a nod to Infinet’s legacy and as such symbolizes the company’s solid foundation built over many years. Building on its fresh corporate identity, Infinet will continue with its current roadmap to develop and launch cost-effective and high-performance solutions in the 28 and 70GHz frequency bands, offering its consumers connectivity platforms capable of reaching 1 Gbps throughputs. Additionally, Infinet will focus its efforts more than ever before on mobility solutions, developing broadband solutions for industrial and transport applications such as ship-to-shore and train-to-ground communications, as well as for open-pit mining and oil and gas applications. “We have come a long way in the last 26 years. Infinet is today widely regarded as the industry leader in broadband wireless technology. The next 12-18 months are set to become the most exciting period in our history, as we launch brand-new, cutting-edge solutions, enter new geographical markets and expand our customer base into new market verticals. In many ways, our new brand identity is a reflection of our excitement and a signal to the industry that we are committed to a culture of innovation and bringing to market solutions that address our customers’ needs, both for today and well into the future,” concluded Dmitry.
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Tata Communications Transformation Services and Smart Africa Alliance set to bridge the skills gap for next-generation technologies in Africa
Tata Communications Transformation Services (TCTS), a global leader in transformative business operations and managed network services and a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Communications Limited, today announced the launch of its pioneering Skill Africa Program, in association with the Smart Africa Alliance. The revolutionary program will address the skills shortage in the technological industry and chart the way for the future of telecoms and IT infrastructure in Africa. The intensive training program will cover a range of next-generation technologies and help future-proof the telecoms and IT infrastructure in Africa. The Skill Africa program will see approximately 150 engineers from across Africa being trained on a variety of next-generation technologies including Cyber-security, Internet of Things, Cloud, Big data, Robotics and Smart Cities. “We are committed to accelerate Africa’s journey to the 4th Industrial Revolution through enabling ICT infrastructure across the continent,” said Madhusudhan Mysore, Executive Chairman and CEO, Tata Communications Transformation Services. “To ensure long term sustainability and growth in ICT services we need to address the skills gap. TCTS has launched this program to provide hands on experience in technology and operations of ICT networks.” “In order for Africa to be ready for the jobs of the future, our engineers and professionals need to be equipped with the requisite skill sets. The Skill Africa Program is about more than just training 150 African people but also about starting a skills transfer chain where the initial 150 can exponentially impart these skills to thousands across Africa,” said Mr Lacina Koné, Director General of Smart Africa. “We launched the initiative as a way to give back to the community,” said Harkirit Singh, Business Head – Africa, Tata Communications Transformation Services. “At TCTS we are committed to developing the skills crucial for the future of telecoms and IT industry, through our high-quality training programs. The Skill Africa Program will give the people of Africa an opportunity to develop the essential skills needed to help build Africa’s next-generation communications infrastructure.” Through this skills development program, each of the 25 Smart Africa Alliance member states will designate six engineering professionals to take part in the Skill Africa Program, therefore providing the opportunity to up to 150 African engineers to benefit from this program. Once selected, the engineers will attend the program at TCTS Renaissance Training Centre in India. Each 30-member cohort will be trained for an intensive one-week period with the first group expected to start in October 2019. Each training period will begin at the beginning of every month for a week-long training session, with the final group expected to complete the training before the Transform Africa Summit 2020. Singh added: “TCTS is proud to partner with the Smart Africa Alliance on this exciting project. I am positive that our collective vision and training will transform Africa into the dynamic knowledge economy it is meant to be.”
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Ranplan recognised for world-leading 5G NR planning capability
13 June 2019: At this week’s INTEROP 2019 in Tokyo, the largest ICT exhibition in Japan, Ranplan Wireless was presented with the Judge's Special Prize in the ‘Best of Show Award’ for its world leading 5G NR (5G New Radio) planning capability. The judges cited Ranplan Professional's world leading 5G NR planning support in mmWave, electromagnetic property database, massive MIMO, comprehensive 5G NR system database, and the planned support in stochastic channel modelling for 5G mmWave. Ranplan Professional is an all-in-one, heterogeneous planning, optimisation and simulation solution for Small Cells, DAS and Wi-Fi networks across complex indoor/outdoor and high-density urban environments, which also integrates with macro-cell networks. By simultaneously modelling indoor and outdoor environments and the propagation interactions between them, Ranplan’s intelligent algorithms and 3D ray-tracing capabilities are able to automate the network design process to optimise indoor and outdoor coverage and capacity, prior to deployment. 'We are extremely honoured to receive recognition before such a qualified audience and team of highly experienced judges. Awards of this nature make us even more committed to help our customers on a global scale bring the true vision of 5G for all its use cases to its ultimate reality', said Alastair Williamson, CEO of Ranplan Group. Ranplan was exhibiting at Interop with is channel partner Marubun of Japan. Marabun recently added Ranplan Professional to its portfolio of bespoke solutions, helping network operators and systems integrators to deliver the benefits of 5G to Japan’s economy and meet the expected demand for data consumption and capacity.
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Smarsh and CellTrust Team to offer API-Driven Voice Capture and Archiving
Smarsh® and CellTrust Corporation today announced Connected Archive support for CellTrust SL2TM voice content at the Smarsh user conference, SmarshCONNECT 2019. Global regulatory requirements for the capture, retention and oversight of voice communications and electronic communications, such as those from EU’s Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID II) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), continue to affect more and more organizations in the financial services industry. With the Smarsh/CellTrust solution, the API-driven delivery of voice content from CellTrust SL2 to the Connected Archive occurs in near-real-time. CellTrust SL2 enables organizations to capture all business-related communications (including mobile/text messaging and voice communications) on employees’ personal mobile devices, regardless of carrier or operating system, and content is seamlessly ingested into the search-ready Connected Archive from Smarsh. Content is available for search, review and production within the Connected Archive, alongside relevant email, instant messaging/collaboration content and social media in one consolidated, secure repository. The integrated mobile compliance solution enables customers to leverage the productivity benefits of their personal mobile devices and strengthens their risk identification and mitigation efforts. “The retention and oversight of voice content is a growing concern in the global financial services market, and through our partnership with CellTrust, we’re excited to extend our leadership in this area,” said Adam Miller-Howard, Smarsh VP/Product Strategy. “Our unique commitment to capturing content via APIs directly from the source provides a richer search and review experience and a more seamless, secure and reliable transfer of voice content than those archiving providers that use traditional SMTP email.” With its CellTrust SL2 integration, as well as the audio search and analytics capabilities from Cognia, Smarsh continues to expand capture and archiving support for an industry-leading breadth of voice and electronic communications channels.
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Energy scavenging technology wins funding to help power imminent 5G and IoT generation
As the drive towards a 5G future gathers momentum, the University of Surrey’s research into technology that could power countless internet enabled devices – including those needed for autonomous cars – has won over £1M from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and industry partners. Surrey’s Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) has been working on triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG), an energy harvesting technology capable of ‘scavenging’ energy from movements such as human motion, machine vibration, wind and vehicle movements to power small electronic components. TENG energy harvesting is based on a combination of electrostatic charging and electrostatic induction, providing high output, peak efficiency and low-cost solutions for small scale electronic devices. It’s thought such devices will be vital for the smart sensors needed to enable driverless cars to work safely, wearable electronics, health sensors in ‘smart hospitals’ and robotics in ‘smart factories.’ The ATI will be partnered on this development project with the Georgia Institute of Technology, QinetiQ, MAS Holdings, National Physical Laboratory, Soochow University and Jaguar Land Rover. Professor Ravi Silva, Director of the ATI and the principal investigator of the TENG project, said: “TENG technology is ideal to power the next generation of electronic devices due to its small footprint and capacity to integrate into systems we use every day. Here at the ATI, we are constantly looking to develop such advanced technologies leading towards our quest to realise worldwide “free energy”. "TENGs are an ideal candidate to power the autonomous electronic systems for Internet of Things applications and wearable electronic devices. We believe this research grant will allow us to further the design of optimized energy harvesters.”
