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Exploring essentials of 4G LTE mobile networks unveils insights such as what 4G is, its speed, pricing, coverage timeline, and supported devices. This article delves into the essentials of 4G networks in Vietnam.
ESSENTIALS OF 4G, UNRAVELING THE MYSTERIES OF 4G LTE
1. Understanding 4G and 4G LTE
If we've experienced 2G, 3G before, now 4G refers to the Fourth Generation of mobile networks. With transmission speeds much higher than 3G, reaching up to a maximum of 1.5 Gbps, 4G is suitable for entertainment, video calls anytime, anywhere.
Many might think 4G and 4G LTE are the same, but they are not. 4G sets a speed standard for smartphones, while 4G LTE is a wireless standard higher than 3G but not as advanced as 4G. If your device doesn't achieve the specified speed but still surpasses 3G, then your network is just 4G LTE.
However, 4G LTE still provides significantly faster transmission speeds than 3G. So, devices that only support 4G LTE can still satisfy users. Currently, 4G LTE is considered the fastest wireless network connection standard as no network or device has met the 4G standard yet.
2. Specific Speeds of 4G, How Does 4G LTE Perform? Things to Know About 4G LTE
Before delving into 4G network speeds, understanding the correlation between 4G speeds and previous generations is essential.
The 4G network, specifically 4G LTE, is divided into various frequency bands known as LTE CAT. The higher the frequency band, the faster the transmission speed, as follows:
LTE CAT 3 : Speed Down/Up 100Mbps/50Mbps
LTE CAT 4 : Speed Down/Up 150Mbps/50Mbps
LTE CAT 5 : Speed Down/Up 300Mbps/75Mbps
LTE CAT 6 : Speed Down/Up 300Mbps/50Mbps
LTE CAT 7 : Speed Down/Up 300Mbps/150Mbps
LTE CAT 8 : Speed Down/Up 1200Mbps/600Mbps
Networks typically announce transmission speeds in Mbps (Megabit per second) for calculating actual speeds, where actual speeds are 1/8 of the stated speed because 1MBps = 1/8 Mbps.
In the recent 4G trial conducted in Vũng Tàu by Viettel, the download speed (theoretically) reached 300 Mbps, equivalent to Category 6 LTE (CAT 6). This is considered a prevalent LTE-A standard in many developed countries and might be widely adopted by networks once officially operational.
3. Pricing for 4G Usage in Vietnam
Due to limited coverage in Vietnam, the exact prices for 4G plans are unknown. However, according to reports, the maximum 4G plan price is only equivalent to 3G. Understanding 4G pricing is crucial before diving into its usage to avoid unexpected costs.
4. Prerequisites for Using 4G LTE
In addition to waiting for 4G coverage across Vietnam, your device needs to support 4G. Typically, if you see '4G LTE' on the device or packaging, it indicates 4G support. You can also check if your phone supports 4G by reading an article if you don't find it on the packaging.
Above are the essentials about 4G and 4G LTE, helping you easily distinguish between these standards and providing useful information to understand 4G mobile networks. Currently, in Vietnam, registration for 4G is available at major networks like Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone. You can now register for Vina 4G, as well as sign up for Mobi and Viettel 4G. Wishing you an early experience with this high-frequency network system.
