Cellular or mobile technologies

Cellular radio technologies represent the transmission and processing of radio signals of a mobile radio network. They describe the regulations and standards according to which mobile communication systems are built. They are divided into 3G, 4G or 5G, whereby 5G is currently still being developed. The different ages differ, among other things, in the data transmission rate, which is measured in bits per second. 5G can achieve data rates of up to 10 Gbit/s. A mobile, extended broadband connection is becoming increasingly essential to provide smartphones with constantly higher data rates. It is equipped with 5G. Higher frequency ranges can also be used than with previous generations.

Cellular technology is used not only for mobile telephony but also for expanding broadband coverage for fixed network connections. In addition, the field of massive machine types communication benefits from mobile radio technology. In networking physical and virtual objects, 5G technology helps keep data rates and energy consumption low. Thus, 5G is also used in the area of industrial automation or autonomous driving. The mobile technology ensures resilient connections with low latency. In virtual reality, too, a high data transmission rate is a prerequisite, which 5G covers.

Which test methods are relevant for cellular radio technologies?

Mobile radio technologies must be tested for the compatibility of immissions and how this affects people. It includes pushing the RF field strength from radio communication base stations (cf. DIN EN 62232). This involves measuring the compatibility of the immissions of electromagnetic fields, the specific absorption rate (SAR) and the power density for humans and the environment. Thus, the safety of those in the vicinity of the equipment can be assessed.

In addition, the safety of persons in electromagnetic fields emitted by wireless communication devices held close to the body, or head must be tested (cf. DIN EN 62209-2). The Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) is measured, making it possible to check whether the respective devices comply with the limit values.