Understand the relationship between 5G and Optical Fiber
5G technology is already more than a reality. Everyone sees the new product as having great potential to revolutionize and transform people's access in a very positive way. But does the implementation of 5G put the use of optical fiber at risk?
5G and optical fiber have fundamental differences, but they complement each other
The concern with the previous question is understandable, but it should not exist. When we talk about 5G and fiber optics, we are talking about completely different things. However, they can be complementary to fixed broadband.
At least in the short and medium term, fiber optics and 5G are complementary. Each technology will have its most appropriate application, and each case will have a specific analysis of what is best. The question of value is still very important, and at what price the fixed wireless access model via 5G could offer service with capacity similar to fiber in the short and medium term. Especially in Brazil, where this factor weighs a little more than in cases such as companies in the United States that have been implementing the model.
Many see the inevitable long-term horizon of dominant fixed wireless offerings, but wireline will undoubtedly remain in existence as long as it delivers better quality than wireless access. wireless.
Transmission and connectivity technology for 5G
One of the main differences between 5G and its predecessors is the wider spectrum coverage. The form of transmission remains through radio frequency waves, and how will antennas be created to make this technology viable? Well, the expansion must occur using the capillarity of optical networks provided by GPON or XGPON technology in the service known as FTTa – Fiber To The Antenna. A large amount of optical fiber to transmit and receive signals.
Switching to this network infrastructure model does not change the efficiency of data transmission. The only difference is the cables, which require updating in the construction design and fiber protection materials. This must happen so that they do not assimilate the efforts during the installation and operation processes” (Source: InfraRoi)
To summarize, there is no rivalry between 5G and fiber optics. Both are different technologies, but they can be complementary. And, above all, they help to make the world increasingly connected and bring ease to everyone's daily lives. At least in the short and medium term, this should not be a concern.
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