| By 2028, there will be an estimated 4.5 billion subscribers to 5G networks worldwide.[i] Ben Kuo, Global Mobile Communication Head at SGS, looks at how manufacturers of wireless devices can ensure each subscriber experiences seamless connections with systems, programs and devices.
Fifth-generation (5G) wireless technology 5G has enabled a massive global expansion in connectivity by allowing more devices to connect to networks at faster speeds and with a reduction in latency – the time between instructing a wireless device to perform an action and that action being completed. This is important. We expect seamless connection and instant responses from our devices. Whether it is the smartphone in our pocket, our automobile, equipment in the office or highly specialized medical devices in a hospital, it must work without the need for constant attention or disruption to other pieces of equipment. Compatibility and interoperability In the rapidly evolving mobile communication technology landscape, device interoperability and network compatibility are paramount. Compatibility relates to a device’s ability to connect and work with a specific network, while interoperability, although related to compatibility, is a device’s ability to communicate with another device or system. It can be defined as: “the ability of different systems, devices, applications or products to connect and communicate in a coordinated way, without effort from the end user.”[ii] To operate successfully in competitive global markets, wireless device manufacturers must show their products comply with internationally recognized standards for both compatibility and interoperability. PTCRB certification
The PCS Type Certification Review Board (PTCRB) was established by leading wireless operators as part of the CTIA certification family of brands in 1997. It helps manufacturers of wireless cellular devices ensure their products operate efficiently in networks and demonstrates compliance with global industry standards. PTCRB certification can be applied to:
The certification process incorporates:
GCF certification Founded in 1999, the Global Certification Forum (GCF) is a global, non-profit organization offering mobile and IoT certification programs based on conformity to agreed standards. Their certification solutions cover a wide variety of products, from smartphones, modules and chipsets to tablets, notebooks and IoT wearables, and are based on 3GPP and other relevant standards. GCF certification can be applied to 5G and all previous generations of wireless technology. Benefits of certification Certification has multiple benefits for device manufacturers:
SGS solutions
With a global network of specialist laboratories dedicated to helping manufacturers of wireless technology ensure their products conform to relevant standards, SGS is the first choice for testing wireless devices. SGS is accredited by multiple industry certification schemes, including GCF, PTCRB, CTIA (Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association), CTIA Cybersecurity, OMA (Open Mobile Alliance), Bluetooth SIG (Special Interest Group), near field communications (NFC), Wireless Power Consortium (WPC, Qi), TREAD Group, Sigfox and Wi-Fi Alliance. Its comprehensive one-stop solution for operational acceptance, regulatory compliance and certification includes testing services for FCC/ISED, EU RED, EMC (radiated and conducted emissions and immunity testing), SAR and HAC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, battery/ESD, reliability and health and safety testing. [i] 5G mobile subscribers forecast worldwide 2028 | Statista [ii] What is interoperability? | Definition from TechTarget
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About SGS We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 98,000 employees operate a network of 2,650 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.
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