To make 5G the preferred network across India, communications service providers (CSP) must build a robust 5G infrastructureby mitigating all the impending roadblocks. This will ensure end users can enjoy the full benefits of 5G. The global 5G network infrastructure market share was around $2.06 Billion in 2020 and is projected to reach a whopping $ 83.62 billion by 2030, a CAGR of 45.3%. 5G infrastructure companies in Asia Pacific are expected to lead the charge in accelerating the growth of the 5G market, followed by North America and LAMEA. STL, one of the leading digital network integrators, is bringing India’s 5G readiness to the floor through its comprehensive suite of optical connectivity and network modernization solutions.
India’s Journey in Building a Robust 5G Infrastructure Before 5G Rollout
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Fig 1: 5G network architecture
Image credit: rohde-schwarz.com
As the entire country looks forward to experiencing 5G servicesin October 2022, the real challenge for CSPs lies in building a robust 5G network infrastructure. Large-scale 5G small cell towers and radio access network deployment will ensure users enjoy a seamless and uninterrupted experience. According to IT sector minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, there is an expectation of Rs 2 lakh- Rs 3 lakh crores of investment in 5G network infrastructure by the telcos so that they can offer top-notch voice quality and ultra-high-speed data transfer.
The Director of the General DIPA (Digital Infrastructure Provider Association), T.R. Dua, reveals that the existing data transmission capacity per tower site is around 1 Gbps for 2G, 3G, and 4G services. But, once 5G is up and running, the capacity required for each 5G small cell tower site will boost to 10-20 Gbps, which will require modification in the technologies at a fundamental level in these tower sites.
Catering to the Internet Connectivity Needs of a Nation’s Congested Infrastructure
The densification of the 5G network will require the deployment of 5G small cell towers on both public and residential infrastructure. To cater to densely populated areas across India, it is vital to utilize any available 5G network infrastructure space with a 5G low power base transceiver station (LPBTS) or small cell serving as a “gNodeB.”
5G will facilitate boosted mobile broadband services (eMBB) and create immense market potential for various value-added services. These include the Internet of Things (IoT), which will, in turn, enable emerging technologies in the field of automotive, energy, manufacturing, utilities & healthcare sectors, etc.
Role of STL in 5G Rollout
Fig 2: Comparing data transmission speeds on 4G and 5G networks
Image credit: community.fs.com
STL’s 5G Solution
STL launched 5G Solutions – a unique optical solution for small cells and towers, on October 2nd to accelerate the rollout of 5G in India.
Although there is no lack of intent or investment, India’s fiber space is restricted due to the scale and slow speed of deployment. STL’s 5G solution is a self-sustaining patented solution that can resolve these deployment challenges and build a strong 5G network infrastructure. It consists of the following:
- 5G optical network topology: This unique design will create a highly competent 5G network with boosted scalability, reduced latency, and higher bandwidth.
- Celesta intelligently bonded ribbon cables: These cables possess high density that will minimize deployment time, thereby reducing overall costs.
- StellarTM Fibre: This high-quality bend-insensitive fiber is ideal for complicated 5G topologies, reduces data loss, and enables speed via seamless splicing.
- Plug-&-Play optical devices: STL’s Opto-Bolt & Opto-Blaze provide a pre-connectorized and robust Plug-&-play solution that brings faster execution & reduces the need for skilled labor.
- Automation-led fiber installation: This technology-led approach provides backhaul fiberization through robotics and AI-equipped field systems.
India is heading in the right direction when it comes to full-scale 5G infrastructure deployment, and STL is leading the way with solutions for accelerated 5G deployment.
To learn more about STL’s Network Services, click here.
FAQs
1. What is the projected market share of 5G network infrastructure by 2030?
As per a research report by Meticulous Research, it is stated that the 5G network infrastructure will surpass the market share milestone of $150.9 billion, by the end of 2030. The growth rate or CAGR for the 5G industry is projected to be 34.8% during the forecast years.
2. How much is the data transmission capacity for 5G small cell towers?
The specified range of 5G small cells is within 15 to 600 meters or 50 to 2000 feet. It is the capacity when millimeter wave or high-band spectrum is being transmitted, without any interference or obstructions. The data delivery speed of 5G will be around 20 Gbps, at its peak, whereas the average speed is over 100 Mbps. It is designed to support a 100 times increase in the traffic capacity.
3. Which industries will primarily be able to leverage the power of 5G technology?
The internet speed of 5G will be around 20 times faster than that of 4G. The minimum download speed with it is capped at 20GB/s and the data transfer speed is also higher than that of 4G. The industries are keen to utilize this emerging technology, and the primary industries that will benefit the most out of it are:
- Manufacturing
- Agriculture
- Healthcare
- Transportation
- Education
4. What are some of the innovative 5G solutions offered by STL?
In 2022, STL launched a suite of optical connectivity services for empowering the 5G readiness of India. As there’s a prediction for India to have around 200 million subscribers of 5G by 2025, it needs high-quality integration of optical products, for making the deployments quick and easy. STL has introduced optical fiber, cables and interconnect solutions to support the 5G initiative of India, which includes:
- Stellar cable
- Celesta Intelligently Bonded Ribbon Cable
- Micromodule Cable with the Micro-Optical Demarcation Closure
- Pre-Connectorized Drop Cabling Solutions