Introduction to Private Cellular Networks
Private cellular networks, once considered a niche concept, have now become a critical and indispensable solution for various industries and government sectors. This evolution has spanned from initial trials to the demonstration of tangible business outcomes. Across industries, organizations are increasingly considering deploying private LTE or 5G networks to meet growing connectivity demands. In this process, questions arise regarding the operational complexities of these networks and their advantages compared to traditional alternatives such as Wi-Fi. These questions cover network reliability, security, scalability, and the ability to support critical applications in diverse and challenging environments. Transitioning to private cellular networks represents a strategic step toward enhancing operational efficiency, ensuring seamless connectivity across large areas, and building robust and secure communication infrastructures capable of adapting to evolving technological demands and regulatory requirements.
Understanding Private LTE and 5G Networks
Private LTE and 5G networks, also referred to by 3GPP as “non-public networks,” utilize licensed, shared, or unlicensed wireless spectrum along with LTE or 5G cellular infrastructure. These networks facilitate voice and data transmission to edge devices such as smartphones, embedded modules, routers, and gateways. LTE (Long-Term Evolution) is a 4G cellular technology that provides secure, fast, and reliable connectivity and is widely used for everyday activities such as calling, emailing, gaming, and video streaming. On the other hand, 5G represents the latest advancement in cellular technology, offering significantly faster data transmission, lower latency, and the capacity to connect a larger number of edge devices.
Benefits of Private Cellular Networks
A private cellular network is exclusively dedicated to a specific business or organization and encompasses cell sites and core network servers tailored to its connectivity needs. Unlike public networks, a private network provides reliable and continuous coverage across the organization’s operational footprint. This is particularly crucial in remote areas lacking public network coverage and in complex environments such as warehouses or ports, where Wi-Fi signals may be obstructed by physical structures like shelves or containers. Additionally, private networks enhance security by tightly controlling access and implementing additional layers of protection beyond what is typically available in public networks.
Cellular Private Network Use Cases
Organizations worldwide are increasingly adopting private LTE and 5G networks to meet specific connectivity needs while enhancing reliability and security. These networks support critical voice and data communication and enable essential operations across industries.
USE CASE EXAMPLES:
MANUFACTURING
Manufacturing companies can leverage 5G private networks to increase the efficiency of autonomous robots operating on factory floors. These networks provide uninterrupted communication even in environments with high electronic interference, extensive metallic machinery, and dense infrastructure. Moreover, 5G private networks enable fast transmission of production data to local edge computing centers, allowing for real-time processing within the factory.
TRANSPORTATION HUBS (INCLUDING PORTS AND AIRPORTS)
Transportation hubs are increasingly adopting 5G private networks to reduce supply chain delays, cut costs, and enhance monitoring and safety measures. Ports utilize these networks for solutions such as remotely controlled ship-to-shore cranes, automated gantry cranes, autonomous guided vehicles, equipment condition monitoring systems, and drones for surveillance and delivery purposes.
WAREHOUSES
With a private LTE or 5G network, online retailers and warehouse operators can deploy robotic product picking, tracking, and other IIoT warehouse applications without concerns about dead zones or high network maintenance costs.
RICON Private Cellular Network Router
The RICON S9925i Router, designed and manufactured by Ricon Mobile Inc., features both fixed and wireless termination interfaces with optional 5G and 4.5G cellular network support. The router is widely used in scenarios such as ATM connections, branch office access, data collection, and vehicles. The S9925i Router integrates dual-port radio interfaces that support 5G SA, 5G NSA, and LTE in a single box. Both 5G and 4.5G interfaces accommodate various category classes depending on bandwidth requirements, such as CAT1M, CAT4, CAT6, CAT12, CAT16, and CAT18, providing up to 1,000 Mbps download speed and 300 Mbps upload speed with multiple carrier aggregation capabilities.
Private Cellular Networks Case Study.pdf
