5G technology test lab accelerates industry adoption

The University of Adelaide is partnering with technology giant Nokia to establish the Nokia National 5G Industrial Incubation Lab to test the capabilities of cutting-edge technology and accelerate its adoption by industry.

$1.9 million in funding from the Australian Government has enabled the establishment of a localised 5G network and translation to industrial testbed applications.

“The Nokia 5G lab enables industry and businesses to test their systems within a secure environment,” said the University of Adelaide’s Professor Nelson Tansu, Head of School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE).

“These capabilities include internet-of-things, augmented reality, virtual reality, digital twinning in diverse application areas for biomedical, transportation, power systems, space, and defence.

“Three pilot projects are already underway at the Nokia 5G lab, investigating how the state-of-the-art wireless technology and systems could improve airport and rail safety and energy management.

“South Australia’s fast-rising high-tech sector has created a perfect ecosystem to support the National 5G Lab.”

“The Nokia 5G lab enables industry and businesses to test their systems within a secure environment. These capabilities include internet-of-things, augmented reality, virtual reality, digital twinning in diverse application areas for biomedical, transportation, power systems, space, and defence."Professor Nelson Tansu, Head of School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE) in the University of Adelaide.

One of the lab’s first partners, Adelaide Airport, is testing a variety of cameras and wearables such as the Microsoft HoloLens, as well as HD video streaming technology designed to enable real-time analysis of airport inspection and safety monitoring.

Pilot projects with SA Power Networks and the Department for Infrastructure and Transport, supported by the University of Adelaide’s researchers have also begun.

Development of the lab was announced following an agreement between Nokia and the South Australian Government’s Department for Trade and Investment.

The lab is located on the University’s North Terrace campus where Nokia experts will work alongside University colleagues and industry partners. The lab is expected to grow in line with business and industry’ demand.

Trade and Investment Minister Nick Champion MP said 5G had the potential to transform a range of industries including mining, transport and health.