3 Courses Take a Deeper Dive into 5G

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THE INSTITUTE The rollout of 5G technology continues globally. As access increases, 5G is expected to impact health care, manufacturing, and other industries.

The technology can transform the way businesses operate. It enhances internal and external communication, increases data-storage capabilities, and improves the remote working experience by offering faster connections. Its superior speed and reduced latency allow for widespread applicability, with AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and other network providers working on rolling out 5G all over the world.

Businesses are not the only entities affected by 5G. The technology has transformed cities, impacting local governments and communities. Wireless devices need to connect to cellular sites-which can require placement close to populated areas.

That creates challenges for both the wireless industry and governments, as citizens worry about health risks and other issues. Allaying such concerns while funding the technical rollout of 5G has been key to successful deployment.

Wireless technology is as crucial as electricity, water, gas, or sanitation," says David Witkowski, an expert in wireless telecommunications and cochair of the IEEE Future Networks deployment working group.

I call it the fifth utility," Witkowski says. It's just as important as those other technologies that make life in the 21st century possible."

THE FIFTH GENERATION

As telecommunications companies race to grow their 5G networks with faster speeds and coverage, what does your organization need to understand about the technology?

To help you, IEEE Educational Activities, IEEE Future Directions, and IEEE Future Networks have developed a three-course 5G Networks eLearning program. It was produced in cooperation with Nokia, a telecommunications leader in 5G. The IEEE 802 LAN/MAN Standards Committee is a key contributor.

The three courses are:

Discover 5G

Professionals must understand the technical performance requirements for radio systems to be able to support new radio and core networks. This course considers several possible future scenarios.

Understanding 5G Fundamentals

It is important to understand network interface protocols and the main functions of each protocol layer. This course covers the 3rd Generation Partnership Project, 5G system architecture, and security, quality of service, and network slicing. The new radio spectrum, operating frequency bands, and spectrum-sharing mechanisms also are explored.

5G System Principles

Learn about 5G spectrum, massive MIMO (multiple-input multiple-output) technology, and 3D-beamforming principles, as well as multiple radio access technology. This course focuses on how the 5G system has been standardized thus far and how the road map for 5G standards is likely to be deployed.

Individuals who take the courses can earn up to 1.05 continuing education units or 10.5 professional development hour credits as well as a digital badge. Visit the IEEE Learning Network website for member, student member, and nonmember pricing.

Institutions interested in the program can contact an IEEE account specialist to learn more.

MORE COURSES

IEEE Educational Activities and the IEEE Future Networks Initiative recently partnered with Witkowski on the Bridging the 4G/5G Gap virtual presentation, which covers topics such as how to deploy wireless facilities at the local level.

Part One of the virtual program is available on demand with the purchase of the three 5G courses. The program provides a historical overview of 4G and 5G technology and how it has impacted society. It also explains the legislative and regulatory background that defines what local U.S.governments, regulatory agencies, and the wireless industry can and cannot do.

Part Two is scheduled to be held at 1 p.m. EDT on 9 June. Witkowski plans to cover the scientific evidence surrounding wireless facilities' impact on property values and human health, as well as 5G conspiracy theories. The program provides a road map on how to deploy wireless facilities. The event includes a live Q&A session with Witkowski.

Individuals interested in purchasing both parts can save 30 percent. Corporate, university, and government entities interested in enterprise access may learn more here.

Johanna Perez is the digital marketing specialist for IEEE Educational Activities.

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