3G Sunset: Overview 

 

By the end of 2022, most mobile carriers across the U.S. will have transitioned away from their older 3G networks. This sunsetting of 3G, or the disconituning of 3G cellular service technology is set in motion to free up more wireless space for newer networks, such as 4G LTE and 5G. Though an exciting development for cellphone users, we must not forget that cellphone network technology is for more than just phones! 

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Who Uses 3G?

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• Alarm Systems

• Industrial Equipment

• Remote asset monitoring

• Sensors

• Temperature monitoring in restaurant freezers

• Emergency call boxes

 

As cellular service providers shut down their 3G networks, devices that still use this technology can become slow or even stop working entirely; alarm systems, for example, may experience issues that will compromise safety and protection.

 

Implications for Communication

        

An important development for the future of communication, this sunsetting calls for action to be taken. We must be sure to stay ahead of the curve to avoid failure in communication, as demonstrated by the alarm system example. Alarm systems communicate over wireless networks, and if your system uses 3G, it’s time to start planning to transition. 

 

What Now?

    

Luckily, if you’re using 3G technology, there's no need to replace the entire system. Rather, to keep your system online, all that’s needed is an upgrade of the cellular communicator.

        

Case Study: Richfield Village

 

In a recent project, Haig Service helped Richfield Village stay ahead of the curve and upgraded radio communicators for fire and life safety systems in 85 of their apartment buildings. These systems were upgraded to 4G LTE service, an urgent task with the 3G service that was being utilized beforehand set to be discontinued by AT&T as of February 22nd.