Who is Getronics?
Getronics is a technology, information, and communication (TIC) company that expanded its business scope in 2019 to include the commercialization of corporate telecommunications services across Mexico.
Getronics’ Authorization and Objectives
The Mexican telecommunications regulatory body, the Federal Institute of Telecommunications (IFT), granted Getronics México, S.A.P.I. de C.V. permission to experiment with 5G technology and the 3.5 GHz radiofrequency band for high-definition video solutions.
These experiments aim to assess the technical feasibility, performance, configuration, and potential applications of 3.5 GHz and 5G technology in various industrial processes. The goal is to eventually commercialize high-definition video products.
Getronics’ Experimental Setup
Getronics has established an experimental laboratory in its facilities in Huixquilucan, Estado de México. This location is close to corporate hubs like Santa Fe and Polanco, as well as industrial parks in Lerma and Toluca.
The laboratory is equipped with devices to test high-speed, low-latency, and large-capacity data transmission using 5G technology in a controlled environment.
IFT’s Concession Details
Getronics was granted a two-year experimental concession for a 40 MHz frequency range (3750 to 3790 MHz) within the 3.5 GHz band.
This concession allows Getronics to explore the benefits of the 3.5 GHz band and 5G technology in video projects for industrial use, though it remains unclear if they will discover applications that could attract television operators’ attention.
Potential Applications
According to José Otero, an ICT Development Consulting analyst, Getronics’ experimental focus is on corporate solutions rather than mass transmissions.
- Corporate private networks with security elements
- Virtual and augmented reality with very low latency for cybersecurity and other corporate solutions
These experiments aim to accelerate the adoption of new technologies by the Mexican business sector, enhancing its competitiveness.
Global and Mexican Investment Trends
Consultancy estimates suggest that investments in private telecommunications networks using 4G-LTE and 5G technologies will reach approximately $7,700 million globally by 2027.
In Mexico, Pemex, CFE, Industrial Minera, Peñoles, and TXM Global Services have secured radiofrequency bands to develop private LTE networks in their maritime and terrestrial installations.
Televisión Azteca has also obtained authorization to exploit 100 MHz of frequencies in the 3.5 GHz band, considered one of the most suitable for building 5G services.
IFT’s Role
The IFT’s private use concessions for experimental purposes enable the verification of technical and economic viability of developing technologies and temporary equipment testing.
These experiments allow for the trial of innovative technologies to promote technological development in networks, specifically for Getronics’ video transmission tests using 5G technology for the Internet of Things.
