Major Japanese mobile phone carrier NTT Docomo has developed a new in-ground base station for 5G wireless technology. The new internet of things system requires more base stations than current 4G technology.
Burying equipment in the ground helps to overcome above-ground space restrictions. The base station uses a water-proof antenna placed into a 70-centimeter deep hole. It's covered with reinforced plastic that allows radio waves to pass through. In accordance with communications ministry guidelines, the intensity and direction of the radio waves will be adjusted to prevent them from affecting passers-by.
One problem with 5G deployment is that the available space for antennas is becoming increasingly limited on towers and the rooftops of buildings. NTT Docomo plans to start putting the new base stations into practical use next March.
