The requirements, challenges, and technologies for 5G of terrestrial mobile telecommunication

TLDR

The article reviews the key requirements and challenges for 5G mobile communication and outlines emerging technologies. It proposes a shift from a single macro‑dominated path to macro‑local coexisting and coordinating paths, and discusses hardware challenges in integrated circuits and passive components. The authors predict and present a comprehensive roadmap for the evolution toward 5G.

Abstract

In this article, we summarize the 5G mobile communication requirements and challenges. First, essential requirements for 5G are pointed out, including higher traffic volume, indoor or hotspot traffic, and spectrum, energy, and cost efficiency. Along with these changes of requirements, we present a potential step change for the evolution toward 5G, which shows that macro-local coexisting and coordinating paths will replace one macro-dominated path as in 4G and before. We hereafter discuss emerging technologies for 5G within international mobile telecommunications. Challenges and directions in hardware, including integrated circuits and passive components, are also discussed. Finally, a whole picture for the evolution to 5G is predicted and presented.