LTE stands for “Long Term Evolution” is a path followed in order to achieve 4G. It’s not so much a technology in itself. You can think of 4G LTE like the “S” series of iPhones. It improves over its predecessor, however, it’s not quite substantial enough that it qualifies as a new generation. It’s a brilliant workaround allowing cellular networks to market 4G speeds, but without having to reach the ITU-R set minimum standards.
While 4G LTE is definitely a significant improvement over the 3G network speeds, it’s technically not 4G in itself. But, many cellular carriers market their networks as 4G LTE since it sounds “better” than 4G. Sometimes, your phone could even display 4G LTE-A (with the A meaning “advanced”) and this would be a bit closer to 4G.
It’s been a few years since the initial LTE networks popped up. Today, almost all cellular-enabled devices support LTE for 4G service.
To most, LTE is a faster network technology. And, for mobile carriers all over the world, it’s a way of simplifying their infrastructures to decrease their costs while enhancing the quality of their products.
LTE offers low latencies and high speeds over long distances. But, all networks aren’t created equally, of course. Some haven’t been able to achieve these goals. Some networks are better than others.
How LTE Works
LTE uses a couple different air interfaces (radio links) types:
- From tower to device (downlink)
- From device to tower (uplink)
By using the different interface types for uplink and downlink, LTE uses the optimal way of doing wireless connections both ways, making for a better battery life and better-optimized network on LTE devices.
Downlink
LTE uses an orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) air interface for the downlink instead of time division multiple access (TDMA) and code division multiple access (CDMA) air interfaces that have been used since the 90s.
What does this mean?
Unlike TDMA and CDMA, OFDMA dictates that multiple in, multiple out (MIMO) is used. This means devices have multiple connections to one cell, increasing the connection’s stability and reducing latency tremendously. Additionally, it boosts the connection’s total throughput.
Uplink
LTE uses the discrete Fourier transform spread orthogonal frequency division multiple access (DFTS-OFDMA) scheme of producing a single carrier frequency division multiple access (SC-FDMA) signal for the uplink. SC-FDMA, unlike regular OFDMA, is better for uplink due to it having a better peak-to-average power ratio for uplink than OFDMA.
Key Features
Users experience several advantages of the LTE standard when comparing it to older standards like HSPA and 3G. Users experience improved downloads, streaming and uploads. LTE also connects users with real-time services, allowing users to talk with others without any stutters or lag.
Give Peak PTT 4G LTE Technology a Try
Peak PTT uses 4G devices and offers a way to ensure your investment is future proofed. Expect continued, uninterrupted service with all your equipment even when cell networks turn their 3G bands down, due to LTE network radios. Call us today at 855-600-6161 to learn more or to get your questions answered.