Our products cater to the most demanding aspects of 5G infrastructure

Filtronic > Markets > Telecoms infrastructure > 5G
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What is 5G?

5G is the fifth generation of wireless mobile communication technology, designed to significantly enhance the speed, capacity, and responsiveness of wireless networks. It is the successor to 4G (LTE) and represents a major leap forward in terms of performance and capabilities for mobile networks.

Filtronic’s experience and role in 5G

Here’s a breakdown of what 5G is and its key aspects:

1. Faster speeds

One of the main benefits of 5G is its dramatically higher data transfer speeds compared to 4G. While 4G networks offer download speeds averaging around 10 to 100 Mbps, 5G can provide speeds of up to 10 Gbps, making it up to 100 times faster than 4G. This enables faster downloading, seamless streaming, and more robust real-time applications.

2. Lower latency

Latency is the time it takes for data to travel from one point to another, such as from your phone to a server. 5G reduces latency significantly, with targets of around 1 millisecond (ms), compared to around 30-50 ms for 4G. Low latency is crucial for real-time applications.

3. Higher capacity

5G networks can support many more devices simultaneously compared to 4G. This is important for the Internet of Things (IoT), where billions of connected devices—such as smart home appliances, wearable tech, and industrial sensors—need to share the same network without causing congestion. 5G can handle up to 1 million connected devices per square km, far exceeding the capabilities of earlier technologies.

4. Spectrum and mmWave Technology

5G operates on a broader range of frequencies than previous generations, including sub-6 GHz (similar to 4G) and millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies (above 24 GHz). The use of mmWave allows for incredibly high-speed data transfers but over shorter distances, which is ideal for dense urban environments where high capacity is needed.

5. Network slicing

5G introduces a concept called network slicing, which allows the creation of multiple virtual networks within a single physical 5G infrastructure. Each slice can be customised for specific use cases. 

6. Improved reliability and efficiency

5G networks are designed to be more reliable and efficient in handling data. This is critical for mission-critical services such as:

  • Health care (remote surgeries, connected medical devices)
  • Public safety (real-time surveillance, emergency response communications)

Filtronic’s experience and role in 5G:

Filtronic has gained a strong reputation in the telecommunications space, especially as the industry transitions to 5G technology, where the demand for high-frequency components and millimeter-wave (mmWave) solutions has surged. 

  • mmWave expertise: 5G networks, particularly those operating at millimeter-wave frequencies (26 GHz and above), require specialised RF components for signal transmission and reception. Filtronic has developed products such as E-band transceivers, which are well-suited for the short-range, high-capacity nature of 5G networks. These E-band transceivers help deliver high data rates and low-latency communications, crucial for 5G’s performance goals.
  • 5G backhaul and fronthaul: One of the biggest challenges in 5G is managing the enormous data traffic between the core network and the radio access network. Filtronic’s transceivers and amplifiers are key components in backhaul (connecting cell towers to the network core) and fronthaul (linking cell towers to base stations), where high-frequency, low-latency communication is essential.
  • Partnerships and deployments: Filtronic has engaged with numerous telecom infrastructure providers, contributing our expertise in microwave and mmWave technologies. Our products are part of cutting-edge 5G deployments and trials, particularly in dense urban areas where millimeter-wave communication is necessary for ultra-fast, high-capacity connections.

Defence and critical communications:

Besides our 5G work, Filtronic serves critical communication markets, such as defence and public safety, where secure and reliable communication is essential. We provide RF solutions for radar systems, electronic warfare, and satellite communication systems, which complement our work in telecommunications.

Competitive edge:

Filtronic’s long-standing experience in high-frequency RF technology, particularly in the millimeter-wave spectrum, makes us a significant player in the 5G market. Our products cater to the most demanding aspects of 5G infrastructure, helping telecom operators deliver on the promises of high-speed, low-latency networks.

Our expertise in millimeter-wave technology positions us well for the future of ultra-high-speed communications, both in commercial 5G and beyond.

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