Swisscom Taps Ericsson to Build Standardized 5G Network in Burgdorf

Swisscom is partnering with Ericsson to build a complete 5G network in Burgdorf based on the latest 5G standard. The first 5G data transfers have been successfully completed.

With this network, Swisscom is testing the latest generation of mobile communications under real conditions in urban areas. The experience gained will flow into other 5G expansion projects at Swisscom.

Swisscom, together with its network equipment supplier Ericsson, is building the first complete 5G network in Switzerland in Burgdorf. From the core and transport networks through to the antennas, everything will run on the latest 5G mobile communication technology, which is based on the newest 5G standard from 3GPP (the mobile communication standardisation organisation 3rd Generation Partnership Project).

With a 5G-capable device from Intel (Intel® 5G Mobile Trial Platform), the first mobile data transmissions were successfully carried out on a purely 5G network and applications such as web browsing, voice connections and streaming were tested. "The experiences that Swisscom has gained with the 5G network in Burgdorf are very important for the launch of 5G," said Heinz Herren, CIO and CTO of Swisscom.

Swisscom is consistently driving forward the development of 5G

In Burgdorf, Swisscom has a test license to transmit on the frequencies required for 5G and carry out corresponding field trials. These tests cover aspects such as speed, response time, beam forming (allows even more efficient data transmissions, as radio beams follow the users), slicing (guarantees network capacities for individual applications and corresponding service levels), and the connection to 4G networks.

And all of this under real conditions in urban areas. Currently, one 5G antenna site is in operation in Burgdorf. Ten more mobile communication sites in Burgdorf and the surrounding area soon will be equipped with 5G.

As 5G will offer completely new possibilities and is important for Switzerland as a business location, Swisscom will be the first mobile telecommunications provider in Switzerland to have 5G at multiple sites by the end of 2018. Once the frequency auction has taken place and the first devices are available, customers at selected locations will be able to benefit from 5G.

The 5G network in Burgdorf is the result of consistent and successful 5G development at Swisscom. As early as Summer 2017, Swisscom held 5G demonstrations in Zurich with mobile speeds of more than 20 Gbit/s as well as network slicing applications and other features.

The medical technology manufacturer, Ypsomed, has digitised its process chain based on 5G. In Guttannen, Swisscom is carrying out 5G tests with residential customers for various applications, and is demonstrating how rural areas can also benefit from ultra-broadband.

Strict limits remain unchanged in Switzerland

The rapid nationwide development of a 5G network will be delayed and become significantly more expensive due to the ONIR limits, which are still very strict in Switzerland. Politicians and administration are called upon to quickly adapt the relevant framework conditions so that Switzerland does not lose its competitiveness.