Comparision Between 1G,2G,3G and 4G

Before knowing about the advancements in 4G let us have a look at the previous generations, their features and drawbacks.

The first operational cellular communication system was deployed in the Norway in 1981 and was followed by similar systems in the US and UK. These first generation systems provided voice transmissions only, using frequencies around 900 MHz. These 1G systems used analog modulation and provide only for voice transmission. The 1G adapted cellular structure. The roaming function was missing in 1G. These 1G systems which provided low quality voice services, were very limited in capacity and did not extend across geographic areas.

Digital second generation (2G) systems were developed in Europe in early 1990s (mainly GSM, based on TDMA technology) and the US (mainly IS95, based on CDMA technology) to provide better voice (audio) quality, higher capacity, global roaming capability as well as lower power consumption. 2G systems also offer support for simple non-voice services like SMS. However, different 2G technologies do not interoperate. There are also difficulties with roaming between GSM and IS95 countries. In addition, the low bit rate of 2G systems (9.6kbps for GSM) cannot meet subscriber demands for new and faster non-voice services on the move. In spite of this due to the intensive developments in microelectronics second generation was quite successful. The weight of the terminals (handset) considerably decreased (from 1 kilogram to few grams). Due to their more user-friendly structure, the appearance of the SIM card and their services based on circuit switched digital communication millions of user opted for this successful system and chose a GSM terminal. The roaming function has been solved as well, the clients can use also the services of other providers and services have become available even in abroad in about the same quality and range, too.

So-called ‘2.5G’ systems recently introduced, enhance the data capacity of GSM and mitigate some of its limitations. It allows cell phones to surf the web but in a very limited way.

Third generation (3G) systems aim to solve the problems encountered with 2G, by promising global roaming across 3G standards, as well as support for multimedia applications. The new third generation (3G) cellular services known as Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) or IMT-2000 will sustain higher data rates still and opens the door to many internet style applications. 3G Systems achieve cellular re-use by using a technique called CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). With the advent of 3G systems, and its accompanying mobile applications and services, mobile devices will become more than just a hand phone or a basic electronic organiser. Hybrid devices will appear in the near future, supporting traditional voice, video streaming and downloads, as well as Internet and Intranet access. 3G’s high bit rate capabilities will allow the convergence of value-added data and voice services on the same mobile device. This will dramatically change the way people communicate, work and carry out their daily lives.

Posted in: 4G Network