5G NR
5G is the foundation for edge compute, private networks, URLLC industrial automation, and mmWave backhaul. Understanding network slicing, SA vs NSA deployment modes, and QoS flows is critical for 5G-connected application design.
What It Defines
5G New Radio defines the fifth-generation cellular standard: flexible numerology (scalable OFDM subcarrier spacing), NR-ARFCN frequency grid, gNB architecture, 5GC (standalone and NSA modes), massive MIMO, mmWave support, network slicing via NSSAI, and ultra-low latency URLLC profiles alongside eMBB and mMTC service classes.
Canonical (Normative)
Convenient (Practical)
The global collaboration of telecommunications standards bodies that produces the mobile network specifications: GSM/EDGE, UMTS/HSPA, LTE/4G, 5G NR, and IMS. Technical specifications (TS) and reports (TR) are freely available at 3gpp.org. Releases (Rel-8, Rel-15, Rel-17…) provide versioned capability sets.
Related Specs
LTE is the dominant global mobile network. VoLTE, QoS bearers, and EPC architecture are directly relevant when building mobile-connected applications, IoT modules, or carrier infrastructure.
NB-IoT is the cellular choice for deep coverage (underground, rural) and ultra-low-power IoT: smart meters, agricultural sensors, and asset trackers. NIDD and CoAP integration are key design decisions.
LTE-M is the go-to for IoT devices needing voice, mobility, and moderate data rates on cellular. PSM and eDRX power modes directly affect battery life design in firmware and device management.