Freeband Kennisimpuls
Freeband Kennisimpuls (Knowledge Impulse)
is a joint initiative of the Dutch Government, knowledge institutions
and industry and, as a research programme, forms part of the
Government action plan 'Competing
with ICT Competencies' (CIC). The programme's objective
is to raise knowledge regarding modern telecommunications within
Dutch knowledge institutions (universities and institutes) to
an international top level. Within this objective, the programme
focuses specifically on the enormous new challenges emerging
in telecommunications. The development of knowledge relating
to '4G' or 'fourth generation telecommunications' in particular
will be given a lot of attention.
What is 4G?
4G stands for one integrated, IP-based environment for all
telecommunications requirements - including voice, video, broadcasting
media and Internet - that utilises both fixed and wireless networks.
In 4G, the user is the central focus point. Via intelligent
terminals, the user can get simple broadband access to a range
of services that take into account his personal preferences
and context. Without interrupting his conversation, work or
video viewing, the user can change terminals or switch unnoticed
between the underlying fixed and mobile networks (UMTS, WLAN).
And by means of ad-hoc networking, his mobile terminals can
form networks among themselves or with the terminals of third
parties. Throughout all this the user always maintains full
control over privacy, security risks and costs. This vision
regarding 4G networks and services is a natural extension of
the current development of broadband Internet and 3G mobile
networks like UMTS.
What can Freeband mean to you?
Freeband Kennisimpuls aims to speed
up knowledge development and the innovation of and migration
to 4G ICT networks and services in the Netherlands. Freeband
Kennisimpuls consists of two research programmes. Research into
the technological issues in the context of 4G takes place mainly
in the 'Research
Programme for Telecommunications' (RPT), while the 'Research
Programme for Telecommunication Applications (RPTA)' focuses
on the development of 4G services.
How can you take part?
You can use Freeband Kennisimpuls - and so acquire new knowledge
and accelerate your own R & D - in three different ways:
- by visiting seminars and workshops and studying Freeband
publications;
- by collaborating with researchers in one or more Freeband
research projects;
- by the joint establishment of innovation or pilot projects
in the context of 4G development..
