What is 4G?

4G stands for Fourth Generation and refers to a wireless communication technology that provides higher data transfer speeds, improved network reliability, and better connectivity than the previous generations of mobile networks. It enables faster internet browsing, high-quality video streaming, and improved voice communication.

4G networks use advanced digital signal processing techniques and network architectures to provide faster data transfer rates, lower latency, and more efficient use of network resources.

Dissecting 4G

4G technology is a radio-based communication system that utilizes radio wave technology to send and receive data. It was developed collaboratively by telecommunication companies and organizations worldwide, with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) establishing its requirements in 2008. The ITU received proposals for the 4G standard from various companies, and LTE and WiMAX were identified as the closest technologies to meeting the requirements.

First launched in Stockholm, Sweden by TeliaSonera in 2009, 4G has since been widely adopted globally due to the increasing demand for mobile data and internet connectivity. Its goal is to provide a seamless mobile internet experience that rivals traditional wired connections.

To qualify as a 4G network, the ITU has set requirements for standard 4G, named the International Mobile Telecommunications Advanced (IMT-Advanced) specification. 

These include the following:

• An All-IP Packet-Switched Network: This is a network architecture that uses internet protocol (IP) for voice and data transfer. It allows faster data transfer and more efficient use of network resources as there is no need to convert between different network protocols, resulting in lower latency and more reliable connections.
• Peak Data Rate of up to  100 Mbps for High Mobility: This means that users can experience fast internet speeds even when they are on a fast-moving train or car. This is achieved by implementing advanced signal processing techniques and using multiple antennas to improve the signal quality.
• Peak Data Rate of up to 1 Gbps for Low Mobility: This allows users to experience even faster internet speeds when they are stationary or walking at a regular pace. This is achieved by using wider channel bandwidths and more advanced modulation techniques, such as quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM).
• Dynamic Sharing of Network Resources: Allows more users to connect to the same network, which leads to more efficient use of network resources. The network resources are allocated dynamically based on the user's demand, ensuring that the network is used efficiently.
• Scalable Channel Bandwidths of 5 to 20 Mhz, and Optionally up to 40 Mhz: This allows for higher data transfer rates and improved network efficiency. Wider channel bandwidths enable more data to be transmitted in a given time, resulting in higher data rates.
• Smooth Transitions Across Heterogeneous Networks: This ensures that users can maintain a seamless internet experience when switching between different networks. This is achieved by using advanced network protocols that allow the user's device to seamlessly switch between different networks without interruption.
• Higher Throughput Speeds for Both Uplink and Downlink Transmissions: This means that data can be transmitted more quickly in both directions. This is achieved by using advanced modulation and coding schemes that allow more data to be transmitted in a given time.
• Worldwide Access, Service Portability, and Scalable Mobile Networks: This allows users to maintain their network profiles across different networks worldwide, providing a more consistent and reliable mobile internet experience. This is achieved by using advanced roaming protocols that allow the user's device to seamlessly connect to different networks while maintaining the same network profile.

Hardware Compatibility Required for 4G

The hardware specifications required for 4G compatibility on a mobile device will depend on the specific device and its manufacturer.

Device

To access 4G network speeds, a mobile device must have a 4G LTE (Long-Term Evolution) radio modem that can communicate with the network using the specific set of protocols required for 4G wireless communication technology. Most modern smartphones and tablets are equipped with this technology, but it's important to check the device's specifications to ensure compatibility with the 4G frequencies used by the mobile network operator.

• 4G Modem or Chipset: A device must have a 4G modem or chipset to communicate with 4G networks. This modem or chipset is responsible for decoding the wireless signal and translating it into data that the device can use.
• Radio Antennas: 4G devices must have an appropriate antenna to send and receive wireless signals. The antenna should be designed to work with the frequency bands used by the 4G network.
• Processor and Memory: 4G devices require a powerful processor and sufficient memory to handle the large amount of data being transferred. This ensures that the device can keep up with the high-speed data transfer rates offered by 4G networks.
• Display: 4G devices typically have large, high-resolution displays to support multimedia applications such as video streaming.
• Battery: 4G devices consume more power than older wireless technologies, so they require a larger battery to provide sufficient runtime. Some devices may also incorporate power-saving features to extend battery life.

Frequency Bands

4G networks use a range of frequency bands allocated by regulatory bodies in different regions and countries. Different mobile network operators may use different bands within a given region, so it's essential to check the device's compatibility with the specific bands used by the operator. The most commonly used frequency bands for 4G networks are:

• Band 1 (2100 MHz)
• Band 3 (1800 MHz)
• Band 7 (2600 MHz)
• Band 8 (900 MHz)
• Band 20 (800 MHz)
• Band 28 (700 MHz)

However, some networks may use additional bands such as Band 40 (2300 MHz), Band 41 (2500 MHz), and Band 42/43 (3500 MHz).

SIM Card

A 4G SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card is required to access 4G network speeds as it contains information about the mobile account and identifies the device to the mobile network operator. This card is needed to authenticate the device on the network and provide access to the high-speed data connection.