Feasibility of 5G in accelerator tunnels
The research will evaluate the feasibility of operating 5G mmWave wireless technology in accelerator tunnels. Using 5G technology as part of the accelerator control system has the potential to significantly improve accelerator operations. The high-bandwidth, low-latency capabilities of 5G may provide a more efficient way for accelerator operators to communicate with accelerator instrumentation. For example, autonomous or remotely controlled robots could provide live-streaming data, audio/video upload and two-way communication to diagnose and repair urgent operational issues. This would minimize radiation exposure, increasing personnel safety, and reduce accelerator downtime.
Further studies will evaluate the effects of underground tunnel curvature, high radiation, adjacent radio-frequency cavities and high magnetic fields on 5G technology, and assess control and monitoring of 5G-enabled instrumentation in accelerator tunnels.