5G: the key to a competitive digital infrastructure

Federal Network Agency allocates local frequencies

Mara Hofacker, 29.11.2018, 07:03

5G: the key to a competitive digital infrastructure

Industry in Germany is dependent on a fast, reliable and efficient digital infrastructure: Mobile and in the field, but especially in its own production.

The seamless supply of digital infrastructure for industrial applications is crucial for the future viability of Germany as a business location. © Pixabay/geralt

The seamless supply of digital infrastructure for industrial applications is crucial for the future viability of Germany as a business location and can only be mastered jointly by network providers, industry and politics. All three parties are dependent on each other.

Industrial applications with a focus on the Internet of Things, Industry 4.0 and other services are essential for the economy. The local frequencies in the 3.7 to 3.8 gigahertz range earmarked for allocation by the Federal Network Agency are crucial for the industrial companies using them. The VDMA welcomes this fundamental decision by the agency, which must now be implemented promptly.

Companies need fast internet

Every mechanical engineering company - especially in rural areas - is dependent on fast internet. For their own production, but also mobile, for example in agricultural engineering and for construction machinery. According to the VDMA, all 4G/5G technologies should be used for this purpose. According to the VDMA, the rapid expansion of a powerful and comprehensive 4G network for industry must be given top priority. In addition, 5G must be fully available in the industrial environment - where necessary today and everywhere in the future.

The association also explains that the Federal Network Agency's requirement for network operators to cover 98% of households falls short of the mark. One hundred percent coverage for industrial applications must be the goal in the short term. The mechanical and plant engineering industry is focusing on dialog with the network providers. According to the DMA, an early extension or allocation of the area frequencies due to be awarded at the end of 2025 would be conceivable, for example, if the network operators were to make corresponding area coverage commitments in return.

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