Bandung, Indonesia – March 27th, 2023 – The xG Research Center of Use Cases and Applications (“xG Research Center”) today announced the commencement of a comprehensive 5G network performance measurement campaign. Leveraging the availability of commercial 5G networks in the vicinity of the research center, researchers aim to establish a baseline understanding of current network capabilities and optimize performance for targeted industry applications.

Establishing a 5G Performance Baseline

Recognizing the importance of real-world data in driving effective research and development, the xG Research Center is conducting extensive measurements of key 5G network parameters. This initiative will provide valuable insights into the actual performance of 5G networks in the region, enabling researchers to identify areas for improvement and optimize network configurations for specific use cases.

Key 5G Network Parameters

The measurement campaign will focus on key performance indicators, including:

• Throughput: Measuring the data transfer speeds achievable on the 5G network, both in download and upload directions. 5G is expected to deliver significantly higher speeds compared to previous generations, enabling faster downloads, smoother streaming, and enhanced user experiences.
• Latency: Evaluating the delay in data transmission, which is crucial for applications requiring real-time responsiveness. 5G’s ultra-low latency capabilities are essential for use cases like remote surgery, autonomous vehicles, and industrial automation.
• Reliability: Assessing the consistency and stability of the 5G connection, ensuring uninterrupted service for critical applications. 5G networks are designed to provide highly reliable connectivity, even in challenging environments.
• Coverage: Mapping the extent of 5G coverage in the area, identifying potential gaps and opportunities for network optimization.

5G Capabilities and Targeted Use Cases

5G technology is designed to support three main categories of services:

• Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB): Provides high-speed data for applications like video streaming, online gaming, and virtual reality. This is relevant to the xG Research Center’s focus on 5G-accessed AR/VR content in smart mining, smart warehouse, and smart campus environments.
• Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLC): Enables mission-critical applications that require extremely low latency and high reliability, such as industrial automation, remote surgery, and autonomous vehicles. This aligns with the Center’s research on drone inspection in these sectors.
• Massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC): Supports the connection of a massive number of devices, enabling applications like smart cities, environmental monitoring, and asset tracking. This is directly relevant to the Center’s focus on smart environmental surveillance.

Continuous Measurement for Comprehensive Insights

The network performance measurement campaign will be conducted continuously over several months to capture data during peak and off-peak hours. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of network performance under various conditions, enabling researchers to develop robust and reliable 5G solutions for the targeted industries.

About the xG Research Center

The xG Research Center is a leading research facility dedicated to exploring the vast potential of current and future mobile network technologies. Established through a dynamic partnership between the School of Engineering and Informatics at Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) and PT Huawei Tech Investment, the Center focuses on developing innovative use cases and applications for 5G and beyond (xG), fostering collaboration between academia and industry to drive the advancement of mobile technology and its positive impact on society.