Test Lab for 5G Networks and Mobile Network Reliability
The fifth generation of mobile communications (5G) opens up a wide range of new applications. It has the potential to be a real game changer, particularly in sectors such as automotive, manufacturing, energy, smart cities, and eHealth. Salzburg Research operates comprehensive 5G testing facilities and has in-depth expertise in reliability measurements.
Reliability as a key factor
A key aspect of professional use of 5G is reliable communication networks. 5G is only suitable for safety-critical applications if the promised network quality is actually guaranteed.
Salzburg Research develops and utilizes methods for independently measuring the reliability of wireless networks. Depending on the application, stationary, mobile, or combined measurements are performed. The measurement parameters, such as throughput or latency, are individually tailored to the requirements.
5G test lab: Research under real-world conditions
Salzburg Research operates one of the first 5G standalone (SA) networks in Austria. Only with 5G SA can this technology’s full potential be realized: speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second, extremely low latency, high availability, and maximum reliability.
The 5G SA network enables precise tailoring and optimization of the network configuration to specific use cases. Various subject areas and configurations of relevant 5G applications are being tested with the aim of avoiding interactions and ensuring security and data protection.
Manufacturer-independent monitoring tools
Specially developed, manufacturer-independent monitoring tools ensure that 5G technologies can also be used safely in particularly sensitive scenarios—such as for critical infrastructure or, for example, for remote control of medical robots during operations.
These 5G measuring instruments, developed by Salzburg Research, continuously check that the required characteristics are being met. This enables users to independently verify the performance claims made by manufacturers or network operators.
Tested 5G application scenarios
As part of the Salzburg 5G Exploration Space, several practical use cases were implemented and tested:
- Remote control of industrial robots: Optimizing robot control via 5G networks, both in laboratories and across networks.
- Real-time feedback in sports: Analysis of human movements, intelligent processing of sensor data, and real-time feedback of results.
- Collaborative urban design: Supporting the planning and design of urban spaces using virtual and augmented reality.
- 5D Smart Campus: Digital live room modeling achieved by combining 3D databases, permanently installed sensors, and mobile devices.
Live video as a 5G application scenario
Thanks to 5G’s low latency, new possibilities are opening up for high-quality live broadcasts. Thanks to its own 5G research infrastructure and specially developed tools and methods, Salzburg Research has significantly reduced latency times, considerably improving video transmission for visitors.
A finely tuned processing chain was developed, covering everything from recording and encoding to decoding and transmission to the end device. Particular focus was placed on optimizing the 5G network parameters to minimize buffer times. A key area of focus was investigating guaranteed bit rate (GBR) and 5QI configurations, which are crucial for video stream quality.
Practical 5G expertise
Salzburg Research is a reliable and innovative partner in the development of 5G applications and products thanks to its many years of experience, scientifically sound methods and tools, and successfully implemented pilot projects.
The 5G test lab allows for the precise analysis and collection of data that can be used to optimize, further develop, and adapt 5G networks, as well as related products and services.
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