The Merseburg University of Applied Sciences in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, has taken a significant step forward in technological advancement by commissioning its own private 5G campus network. This groundbreaking project, in collaboration with Deutsche Telekom, marks the first 5G campus network in the region. The initiative is part of the state’s commitment to enhancing modern digital infrastructures and facilitating regional structural transformation, with an investment of approximately 1 million euros over seven years.
Inauguration and Key Participants
The network’s inauguration was a notable event, attended by Dr. Lydia Hüskens, Minister for Infrastructure and Digital Affairs of Saxony-Anhalt, along with other dignitaries such as Stefan Kipfelsberger, Head of Staff of the State Chancellery of Saxony-Anhalt, and Prof. Dr. Markus Krabbes, Rector of Merseburg University of Applied Sciences. The launch was celebrated during the Merseburg Digital Days, an annual event aimed at fostering dialogue and development in digitalization, smart city initiatives, and digital administration. Minister Hüskens emphasized the critical need for well-developed digital infrastructures to create attractive living spaces, bolster regional economic growth, and improve the quality of life for citizens.
She highlighted that 5G technology is pivotal in unlocking new digital opportunities for both businesses and private users, playing a crucial role in the regional structural change process. An environment equipped with a robust digital infrastructure attracts skilled professionals and promotes advancement in various sectors. The project not only demonstrates the proactive strategies implemented by the state but also signifies a collaborative effort to pave the way for future technological innovations.
Features and Coverage of the 5G Campus Network
Deutsche Telekom equipped Merseburg University with an extensive 5G standalone (5G SA) network, employing state-of-the-art technology from Ericsson. The infrastructure includes 44 indoor antennas and five outdoor antennas, collectively covering an area of 30,000 square meters at the university and the adjacent Merseburg Innovation and Technology Center (MITZ). This comprehensive setup ensures robust connectivity both indoors and outdoors. An important aspect of this 5G network is its operation on industrial frequencies specifically allocated for the university by the Federal Network Agency, within the 3.7 to 3.8 gigahertz range.
This exclusive access to up to 100 megahertz of bandwidth allows for high-performance data transmission and testing of innovative applications without interference from public networks. The independent network infrastructure, which encompasses all critical components from antennas to gateways, ensures that all data traffic remains confined within the local network, providing enhanced security and ultra-fast data processing with minimal latency. With these advanced features, the new 5G network significantly improves the scope for high-level academic research and innovative industrial applications.
Innovative Applications and Research Opportunities
The newly established 5G network is poised to foster cutting-edge research and development in various fields. Merseburg University aims to explore applications in autonomous driving, logistics, industrial processes, healthcare, and augmented reality. These endeavors are expected to drive innovation and facilitate collaborative projects between academia and industry. The high-speed, low-latency capabilities of the 5G network enable advanced testing and deployment of complex, data-intensive technologies vital for future developments.
The integration of 5G indoor positioning technology, used for the first time in a customer setting beyond test operations, represents a notable advancement. This technology, based on the 3GPP standard and provided by Ericsson, enables real-time positioning of objects within indoor environments. Such precision is invaluable for optimizing material replenishment in production halls and warehouses, thus improving efficiency and planning in logistics and manufacturing processes. Researchers at MITZ will further investigate the potential of this technology for future industrial applications. The research driven by this innovation promises to yield practical solutions that can be scaled across various industries, promoting economic growth.
Implications for Regional Development and Innovation
The installation of the 5G campus network at Merseburg University stands as a testament to the region’s commitment to embracing digital transformation. It underscores the strategic efforts to facilitate the transfer of innovation from research to practical applications in various sectors. This initiative positions Merseburg as a significant player in the field of digitalization and reinforces its role as a hub for experimental smart solutions that can drive economic and technological growth. By establishing such a pioneering network, the university sets a precedent for future advancements that other institutions and regions can emulate.
Prof. Dr. Markus Krabbes expressed his gratitude to all stakeholders involved, emphasizing that the 5G network is a critical component of the university’s ‘MerInnoCampus’ development strategy. It enhances the institution’s capabilities as a testbed for smart solutions, supporting operational automation, infrastructure control, and real-time media signal transmission. The project highlights a cohesive effort to bridge the gap between academic research and industry applications, fostering an environment conducive to sustained innovation and progress in the digital age.
Future Prospects and Continued Innovation
The Merseburg University of Applied Sciences in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, has achieved a significant milestone in technological progress by launching its own private 5G campus network. This pioneering project, undertaken in collaboration with Deutsche Telekom, represents the first 5G campus network in the region. The endeavor aligns with the state’s dedication to advancing modern digital infrastructures and supporting regional structural transformation. It involves an investment of around 1 million euros over a period of seven years. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance the university’s research capabilities, provide students and staff with cutting-edge technology, and serve as a catalyst for local industry partnerships. By integrating 5G technology within the campus, the university aims to foster innovation, bridge the digital divide, and prepare for future technological demands. Overall, this project underscores the university’s commitment to staying ahead in the digital age and contributing to the broader adoption of advanced technologies within the region.