University College London (UCL) has set a new world record in wireless data transmission. They successfully sent data at an astonishing speed of 938 gigabits per second (Gbps) over a frequency range of 5 to 150 gigahertz (GHz). This speed is nearly 9,380 times faster than the UK’s average 5G download speed of 100 megabits per second (Mbps).
Traditional wireless networks, like Wi-Fi and 5G, operate below 6 GHz, leading to congestion and limited speeds. The UCL team overcame this by using a much wider range of frequencies and combining radio waves with light-based technologies for the first time.
Dr. Zhixin Liu, the senior author of the study, explained, “Our solution is to use more of the available frequencies to increase bandwidth while maintaining high signal quality. This results in super-fast and reliable wireless networks, overcoming the speed bottleneck between user terminals and the Internet.”
How They Achieved It
The researchers combined advanced electronics, effective in the 5-50 GHz range, with photonics technology that excels between 50-150 GHz. By integrating electronic digital-to-analog signal generators with light-based radio signal generators, they transmitted data across a vast frequency spectrum.
They achieved the 938 Gbps transmission rate with less than a 300 MHz gap between different radio frequency and millimeter-wave bands. This is the fastest recorded speed for multiplex data, which combines multiple signals for transmission.
High-Speed Future
This breakthrough has significant implications for future wireless technologies, including the development of 6G networks. Mobile users can expect dramatically faster internet speeds and more stable connections. In densely populated areas or large events like concerts, more people could use the network without slowdowns.
Professor Izzat Darwazeh from UCL commented, “This work brings wireless technology up to speed with the increased bandwidths and speeds that have been achieved with radio frequency and optical communications systems within next-generation digital communications infrastructure.”
Global Efforts Toward Faster Wireless
UCL’s achievement aligns with global efforts to enhance wireless communication speeds. Recently, Japanese telecommunication companies developed a 6G device capable of transmitting data at up to 100 Gbps over distances of 100 meters.
What’s Next?
While the technology is currently demonstrated in the laboratory, the UCL team is working on creating a prototype system for commercial testing. If successful, this technology could be integrated into commercial equipment within three to five years.
Professor Polina Bayvel, co-director of the UCL Institute of Communications and Connected Systems, stated, “They are essential for the future of the UK’s national communications infrastructure, which is a critical resource.”
The Age Of Super-High-Speed Internet
This advancement could revolutionize various sectors, from home Wi-Fi to mobile networks. For example, downloading a two-hour 4K Ultra HD film (around 14 GB) would take just 0.12 seconds with this technology, compared to 19 minutes on current 5G networks.
Dr. Liu is optimistic about the future, mentioning that his team is in discussions with smartphone manufacturers and network providers. He believes their work will form the basis for future 6G technology, although other approaches are also being explored.
