3 g 4g
3G (Third Generation):
Key Features:
- Data Transmission:
- 3G introduced higher data transmission speeds compared to its predecessor, 2G (Second Generation).
- The International Mobile Telecommunications-2000 (IMT-2000) standard defined the technical specifications for 3G.
- Data Rates:
- 3G networks can provide data rates from 144 kbps (kilobits per second) for moving users (e.g., in a car) to several megabits per second (Mbps) for users in a fixed location.
- Network Architecture:
- 3G networks use a packet-switched network (PSN) for data transmission. This is a departure from the circuit-switched networks used in 2G.
- The architecture includes a core network, which manages call routing and data transport, and a radio access network (RAN), which connects devices to the core network.
- Multiple Access Technologies:
- 3G supports multiple access technologies, including CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access), and WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access).
- Services:
- In addition to voice communication, 3G introduced a variety of data services, including video calling, mobile internet access, and mobile TV.
4G (Fourth Generation):
Key Features:
- LTE (Long-Term Evolution):
- 4G is often synonymous with LTE, which is a major technology standard for wireless broadband communication.
- LTE significantly improves data rates and reduces latency compared to 3G.
- Data Rates:
- 4G networks can provide peak data rates of up to 1 Gbps (Gigabit per second) for stationary users and up to 100 Mbps for users in motion.
- IP-Based Architecture:
- 4G is entirely based on Internet Protocol (IP) and uses an all-IP network architecture. This simplifies network management and integration with other IP-based services.
- Advanced Technologies:
- 4G employs advanced technologies like Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO), Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), and carrier aggregation for improved spectral efficiency and network capacity.
- Seamless Handovers:
- 4G provides seamless handovers between different cell towers, ensuring a smooth transition for users moving across coverage areas.
- Application Support:
- 4G is optimized for high-quality multimedia streaming, online gaming, and other data-intensive applications.
- Backward Compatibility:
- 4G networks often support backward compatibility with 3G and 2G networks to ensure connectivity in areas with different generations of network infrastructure.
3G marked a significant leap in data speeds and introduced various data services, while 4G, especially in the form of LTE, brought even higher data rates, low latency, and improved network efficiency through advanced technologies, paving the way for a more connected and data-intensive mobile experience.