Waveforms of 4G and 5G Radiofrequency Signals: Are Differences Relevant to Biology or Health?

Abstract

Overview

This Note examines the waveforms of 4G Long-Term Evolution (4G LTE) and 5G New Radio (5G NR), particularly their use in cellular base stations and their relevance to health physicists. It aims to provide a comprehensible resource for public discussions surrounding cellular technologies.

Findings

• The study highlights that despite the technological evolution from 4G LTE to 5G NR, the differences in the baseband waveform are minimal.
• 5G NR allows for a broader range of parameters, leading to a greater variation in transmitted frequencies.
• Although these modulation differences are deemed insignificant in biological terms, the expansion in accessible frequencies with 5G NR warrants more health-related inquiries, particularly at millimeter-wave frequencies in the 5G FR2 band.

Conclusion

The discourse on 5G NR not only involves technical aspects like modulation and waveform but also encompasses broader issues like population exposure, risk perception, and communication. The implementation of small cells for 5G and concerns regarding their placement close to residential areas indicate an ongoing need for comprehensive research, as seen in projects like the CLUE-H initiative funded by the European Union in 2022.