Local 5G Systems and Applications

Unlike public networks such as mobile communication networks, local 5G is a service provided by individuals, companies, or municipalities in a specific area that incorporates 5G capabilities to meet the needs of that area.

It currently takes due time to switch from the public network to local 5G when providing information distribution services via 5G to high-speed vehicles such as trains and cars. This either results in the high-speed vehicle passing through the area before the service is provided, or the connection being lost during switchover, making stable use impossible.

NICT has developed the assist cell technology which helps to reduce the switching time. In the past the switching time took more than 4 minutes, but this technology has reduced this to an average of less than 5 seconds and a maximum of 10 seconds. This technology has also been successfully demonstrated in an experiment using a battery-powered commercial train;’ACCUM’, on the JR East Karasuyama Line (Tochigi Prefecture, Japan).

While there are still some issues to be addressed in the realization of local 5G; such as the cost of installation and operation costs, and standardization of developed extension technologies, NICT is continuing research and develop the new technology to enable future implementation in smartphones through the miniaturization of equipment and other measures.