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ABOUT 5G
The benefits of 5G
5G is the fifth-generation cellular network – and follows on from 4G most recently, and 3G and 2G before that.
Three main points of difference set 5G aside from 4G. These are:
- Speed – 5G is much faster than previous generations of wireless technology with speeds at least 5-10 times faster than those of 4G, this means that large files such as videos can be transferred in seconds rather than minutes, meaning you can stream video on the go without having to worry about buffering.
- Greater capacity – 5G also offers greater capacity, allowing thousands of devices in a small area to be connected at the same time,this is increasingly important as everything in our lives becomes connected to the so-called internet of things – for example, cars, clothes, buildings etc.
- Low latency – The reduction in the time between instructing a device to perform an action and that action being completed means that 5G is also more responsive than 4G. 5G enables data to be transmitted and received with virtually no delay which means that 5G can support all sorts of time critical services and applications but also improving online gaming experiences and in the future supporting autonomous vehicles.
Connectivity is vital, and with 5G enabling faster connections between devices, the technology provides a better connection between you and what’s important. In future, 5G-enabled Wi-Fi routers could bring this next generation technology and all its benefits into your home, creating an alternative to traditional home broadband.
Therefore, 5G has the potential to provide significant benefits across some of the West Midlands’ key growth sectors. At West Midlands 5G, we are actively working to develop new 5G-enabled applications and services within transport, health and social care, and manufacturing.
Benefits of 5G in transport
In transport, we’re helping to drive significant innovation across the West Midlands transport network through several 5G trials, including real-time parking availability, HD CCTV for the region’s tram network and utilising existing 5G infrastructure to count traffic. In September 2020, we announced our support for seven exciting new projects to help transform the region’s transport network for the better.
Learn more about 5G in transport
Benefits of 5G in manufacturing
In manufacturing, 5G is revolutionising the way industries across the region are operating; from improving machinery efficiency through sensor trials, to helping businesses securely and quickly transfer data along their supply chains.
Learn more about 5G in manufacturing
Benefits of 5G in health and social care
Long before the outbreak of COVID-19, our healthcare system was already under a significant amount of pressure. In the UK and in similar developed countries, the growth in ageing populations and chronic diseases, such as cancer, have meant a sharp rise in the need for more medical and social care. As a result, there is an inherent need to improve our healthcare system – with new technologies including 5G offering critical opportunities to improve patient care and productivity.
In June 2019, West Midlands 5G partnered with BT and University Hospitals Birmingham to trial the UK’s first 5G Connected Ambulance. This demonstration showcased the very latest developments in remote diagnostics. By connecting paramedics in real-time with doctors back at the hospital, they are empowered to diagnose conditions even more effectively at first point of patient contact.
The trial demonstrated how a paramedic was able to perform a remote-controlled ultrasound scan on a patient in an ambulance over a public 5G network. Real-time high definition imagery was fed back to a physician over a 5G video link – something that 4G is not fast enough to support. The doctor in the hospital was able to control the ultrasound scan through a special haptic glove. This meant that the doctor could make a more accurate diagnosis on behalf of the paramedic, allowing the patient to be transferred to the most appropriate hospital to receive the right care.
This practice was made possible by the real-time data transfer speeds 5G enables, meaning that emergency services are now able to perform tasks at rapid speeds whilst on the go, including those that previously wouldn’t have been possible, such as an ultrasound. Healthcare professionals say the technology will save lives and reduce waiting times.
Learn more about 5G in healthcare
Contact us for tailored advice
WM5G’s aim is to use 5G to make a real and positive difference to the people, businesses and public sector in the West Midlands. We are demonstrating the endless possibilities of 5G from personal use to industrial-scale operations. If this is something you would like to be involved in, please get in touch.