LTE (Long Term Evolution) is a mobile communication standard that enables faster and more extensive mobile data transfer than previous wireless technologies. True to its name, “Long Term Evolution” suggests that this standard will remain relevant for many years ahead. Even with the advent of 5G, LTE will continue to play a crucial role, serving as the backbone for the emerging 5G mobile network.
What is LTE?
LTE, often referred to as “4G,” is the fourth generation of mobile communication technology. It introduces numerous enhancements to the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), the third generation of mobile communications. In turn, 5G builds upon these LTE advancements, marking the ongoing evolution of cellular technology.
The standards for LTE are established by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), a global consortium dedicated to developing protocols for mobile telecommunications, ensuring worldwide compatibility. The foundation of the LTE network is based on an IP network architecture, which has led Deutsche Telekom to transition its fixed-line network to Internet Protocol (IP).
How long has LTE been around?
The world’s first public LTE network launched in Stockholm and Oslo on December 14, 2009. In Germany, Deutsche Telekom activated its first LTE station in Kyritz an der Knatter on August 31, 2020.
How does the LTE network work?
LTE employs innovative technologies like MIMO (multiple input, multiple output) antenna systems. With low latency, LTE supports voice services (VoLTE: Voice over LTE) and video telephony via Internet Protocol, making it suitable for time-sensitive applications like online gaming. With a bandwidth of 20 MHz, LTE achieves speeds of up to 300 Mbit/s for downloads and 75 Mbit/s for uploads, with latency under 20 milliseconds.
The precursors of LTE: GSM and UMTS
Mobile communications gained widespread popularity with the introduction of the GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) standard. This made mobile phones lighter and more affordable, driving down costs through global commercialization and competition. A key advantage of GSM was its ability to allow users to keep their SIM cards and devices when crossing borders. It also enabled SMS (Short Message Service), which peaked at 59 billion messages sent annually in Germany before declining due to the rise of messaging apps. In 2018, only 8.9 million SMS were sent in Germany.
GSM also standardized the emergency number 112, and while it remains the most widely used mobile communication standard, LTE coverage has significantly expanded in rural areas, reaching 98% of Germany’s population.
UMTS, the third generation (3G) standard, offered much higher data rates than GSM, supporting speeds of up to 42 Mbit/s compared to GSM’s maximum of 220 Kbit/s. The increased data rates allowed for music file transmission, but LTE far surpasses this with speeds of up to 300 Mbit/s downlink and 75 Mbit/s uplink, facilitating video transmission and streaming.
During the UMTS frequency auction in 2000, the German government earned approximately 98.8 billion deutschmarks (around 50 billion euros). However, UMTS struggled to meet the growing demand for bandwidth. The iPhone’s launch in Germany in 2007 marked a turning point for mobile internet, despite early models lacking UMTS support. The iPhone 4 was the first to utilize UMTS data transmission via HSUPA, achieving speeds of up to 5.7 Mbit/s.
An advantage of LTE is that it could leverage existing infrastructure from GSM and UMTS, eliminating the need for a completely new network setup for the fourth generation.
Who can use LTE?
To access LTE and enjoy fast internet on a mobile device, users need an LTE-capable smartphone or tablet, an LTE rate plan, and to be within an LTE coverage area. This is increasingly common, as most modern smartphones from brands like Apple, Samsung, and Huawei support LTE. Affordable LTE rate plans are available not only from major network operators but also from mobile discounters. Currently, Deutsche Telekom’s LTE network covers over 98 percent of households in Germany, with ongoing expansion into both urban and rural areas.
Where is mobile Internet via LTE available?
Network operators have created numerous online maps displaying their LTE coverage. For example, Deutsche Telekom offers a comprehensive coverage map on www.telekom. de/schneller, which shows LTE, GSM, and 5G coverage. Germany’s Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMVI) provides a broadband atlas that details nationwide LTE and fixed-line network coverage. Additionally, the Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) has a search function for specific locations, showing the available network operators.
Where are the LTE transmission towers located?
LTE antennas are typically mounted on building rooftops or existing towers. Rooftop antennas usually reach heights of no more than ten meters, while Deutsche Telekom’s towers range from 30 to 40 meters tall. These structures are primarily made of concrete, although steel lattice masts are also common. The antennas are attached to these masts and connected to a radio head via high-frequency cables, with the rest of the system technology installed at the base of the tower or in nearby equipment rooms.
Which frequencies are used for LTE?
As of June 30, 2020, Deutsche Telekom utilizes the following LTE frequencies:
- LTE band 3 (1.8 GHz range): Exclusively used for LTE.
- LTE band 1 (2.1 GHz range): Previously designated for 3G/UMTS, now partially utilized for Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) as part of the 5G Booster initiative, allowing for variable use between LTE and 5G.
- LTE band 7 (2.6 GHz range): Primarily used in urban areas to enhance LTE network capacity, though its limited range restricts widespread use.
- LTE band 8 (900 MHz range): Provides strong indoor coverage in cities and broader coverage in rural areas.
- LTE band 20 (800 MHz range): Considered the backbone of the LTE network, this band is widely used by all network operators, particularly in rural regions.
Why is LTE important for 5G?
5G is not a standalone network; it enhances the existing 4G infrastructure with new functions and technical capabilities. The integration of available frequencies allows Deutsche Telekom to expedite the rollout of 5G, especially in rural areas. This initiative not only boosts LTE performance by providing additional frequency bands but also increases bandwidth for users. Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) enables LTE and 5G customers to utilize this extra spectrum, leading to significant improvements in data rates. In rural areas, speeds can exceed 225 Mbit/s, while urban users can enjoy peak speeds of 600-800 Mbit/s. The combination of DSS and the deployment of 5G in the 3.6 GHz frequency band establishes a new communication standard, with both LTE and 5G leveraging various frequency bands to ensure coverage across urban and rural settings.
Significance of LTE
- Enhanced Data Speeds: LTE offers significantly faster data transfer rates compared to previous generations (like 3G), enabling smoother streaming, quicker downloads, and better overall user experiences.
- Low Latency: With reduced latency, LTE supports real-time applications such as video conferencing and online gaming, making it ideal for time-sensitive tasks.
- Increased Capacity: LTE can handle a greater number of users and devices simultaneously, addressing the growing demand for mobile data in crowded urban areas.
- Improved Coverage: LTE’s use of different frequency bands allows for better indoor coverage and wider service areas, especially in rural regions where connectivity was previously limited.
- Foundation for 5G: LTE serves as the backbone for 5G networks, allowing for a smooth transition and integration of advanced technologies. It enhances 5G performance through Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS), maximizing the use of available spectrum.
- Support for Multimedia Services: LTE facilitates high-definition video streaming, voice over LTE (VoLTE), and other multimedia services, enhancing the quality of communication and entertainment.
- Economic Growth: The widespread adoption of LTE has driven innovation and economic growth, enabling new business models and services in sectors such as entertainment, education, and telemedicine.
- Global Standardization: LTE has been adopted worldwide, ensuring compatibility and seamless roaming for users across different regions and networks.
Overall, LTE has transformed mobile communications, paving the way for a more connected and efficient digital world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is LTE and how does it work?
LTE (Long Term Evolution) is a standard for wireless broadband communication. It uses a packet-switched network that transmits data in small packets rather than traditional circuit-switched methods. LTE improves data transfer speeds by utilizing a larger bandwidth and advanced modulation techniques, allowing for faster and more efficient mobile internet access.
What can LTE do?
LTE provides high-speed mobile internet access for activities such as streaming videos, online gaming, video conferencing, and browsing the web. It supports various services, including voice over LTE (VoLTE), which allows for high-quality voice calls over the data network. LTE also enables faster downloads and uploads compared to previous mobile technologies.
Where is LTE available?
LTE is widely available in many countries around the world. Most major urban areas and many rural regions have LTE coverage provided by mobile network operators. Availability can vary by location, so it’s best to check with local carriers to determine coverage in specific areas.
What are the benefits of using LTE?
The primary benefits of LTE include faster internet speeds, reduced latency, and improved reliability compared to older mobile technologies like 3G. LTE can handle a larger number of simultaneous users, making it ideal for densely populated areas and high-demand applications.
What devices are compatible with LTE?
Most modern smartphones, tablets, and mobile broadband devices are equipped with LTE capabilities. When purchasing a device, it’s important to check for LTE support and ensure it is compatible with the specific frequency bands used by local carriers to maximize connectivity.
conclusion
LTE (Long Term Evolution) is a transformative mobile communication standard that enhances the way we connect and communicate. It operates using advanced technologies such as MIMO (multiple input, multiple output) and Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS), enabling high-speed data transfer and low latency. This allows users to enjoy seamless streaming, real-time communication, and fast internet access on their devices.
The capabilities of LTE extend beyond simple connectivity; it supports a range of multimedia services, including high-definition video streaming and voice over LTE (VoLTE). Its robust infrastructure accommodates a growing number of users, making it ideal for urban and rural settings alike.
LTE coverage is widespread, with major network operators providing extensive maps detailing service availability. This ensures that both city dwellers and rural residents can benefit from reliable mobile internet access.
