5G is neither exclusively CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) nor GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications). Instead, 5G is based on a new air interface that goes beyond the historical division between CDMA and GSM technologies. To understand this, let’s delve into the historical context and the evolution of these technologies:
- CDMA and GSM Background:
- CDMA: CDMA is a wireless technology that uses a spread spectrum technique, allowing multiple users to share the same frequency band simultaneously. It was initially developed by Qualcomm and became a prominent technology in 2G and 3G networks, notably in North America and some Asian countries.
- GSM: GSM, on the other hand, is a digital mobile communication standard developed in Europe. It uses time division multiple access (TDMA) for channel access and gained global prominence, becoming the dominant technology for 2G networks.
- Evolution to 3G and 4G:
- 3G (UMTS/HSPA): The transition to 3G saw the coexistence of CDMA2000 and UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) technologies. CDMA2000 continued to be used in some regions, while UMTS, based on WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access), became widely adopted globally.
- 4G (LTE): LTE (Long-Term Evolution) became the global standard for 4G networks. LTE is a GSM-based technology, and its adoption marked a convergence towards a unified technology platform, moving away from the historical divide between CDMA and GSM.
- Introduction of 5G:
- 5G NR (New Radio): 5G introduces a new air interface called 5G NR, and it is designed to be flexible, scalable, and capable of supporting a wide range of services and applications. Unlike its predecessors, 5G NR is not limited by the historical CDMA or GSM distinctions.
- Common Core Network: While the air interface may differ, the 5G core network is designed to be common and support both 5G NR and LTE, ensuring seamless interoperability between the two technologies.
- Frequency Bands and Spectrum:
- 5G Bands: 5G utilizes a diverse range of frequency bands, including sub-6 GHz and millimeter waves. This allows for increased data rates and improved performance. The use of higher frequency bands is a departure from the traditional bands associated with CDMA or GSM.
- Spectrum Flexibility: 5G’s flexible and scalable nature allows it to adapt to different frequency bands, making it versatile for global deployment.
- SIM Cards:
- SIM Cards in 5G: 5G networks continue to use SIM cards, but the underlying technology is not inherently tied to CDMA or GSM. The Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card in 5G provides authentication and identification, regardless of the air interface.
In summary, 5G does not adhere to the historical CDMA or GSM divide. It is built on a new air interface, 5G NR, which is flexible and adaptable, supporting a wide range of frequencies and services. The evolution towards a unified technology platform, as seen in the transition from 4G to 5G, has led to the convergence of diverse technologies into a common framework, making 5G a technology that transcends the traditional CDMA or GSM distinctions.