4G and 5G Mobile Technologies FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About 4G and 5G Technologies

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The 4G Router Store’s FAQ page provides comprehensive information about 4G and 5G technologies, covering a wide range of topics relevant to the UK market. It discusses emerging technologies like 5G RedCap, the benefits of investing in 5G routers even in 4G areas, and the rollout of 5G SA networks in the UK. The page also offers insights into creating private 5G networks and includes a detailed glossary of terms related to cellular technologies, IoT, and M2M communications. This resource is valuable for both consumers and businesses looking to understand the current state and future developments of mobile network technologies, particularly in the context of industrial and IoT applications.

5G RedCap, also known as 5G NR-Light, is a new technology standard introduced in 5G Release 17 to bridge the gap between high-performance 5G and low-power IoT technologies. It was developed to address the need for a more efficient and cost-effective solution for mid-range IoT applications that don’t require the full capabilities of 5G but need more performance than what 4G LTE or low-power wide-area (LPWA) technologies offer.

5G RedCap Origins and Rationale

The development of 5G RedCap was driven by the recognition that many IoT devices and applications fall into a middle ground between high-end 5G use cases and low-power IoT scenarios. The minimum 5G requirements, such as 100 MHz bandwidth and 4 RX antennas, were not suitable for low-cost and battery-powered LPWA IoT applications. 5G RedCap was designed to power low-complexity LTE and NR devices with minimum hardware requirements, making it an ideal solution for this market segment.

Key Features

  • Lower Latency: Offers lower latency compared to 4G LTE, with some use cases achieving latency as low as 5 ms.
  • Improved Power Consumption: Designed for static or slow-moving devices, significantly reducing battery power consumption.
  • Bandwidth: Uses a narrow bandwidth spectrum of 20MHz below 6GHz, compared to the typical 100MHz of 5G eMBB.
  • Reduced Complexity: Fewer antennas, MIMO layers, and RF transceiver requirements.
  • Modulation: Supports 64QAM modulation with flexible support for 256QAM.
  • Network Compatibility: Operates on 5G standalone networks, offering improved reliability and efficiency.

Relevant Industries

5G RedCap is particularly relevant to several industries in the UK and globally:

  1. Healthcare: Telemedicine, remote patient monitoring, and connected medical devices.
  2. Industrial IoT: Sensors and actuators in factories, machinery, and power grids.
  3. Smart Cities: Infrastructure management, environmental monitoring, and public services.
  4. Automotive: Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, autonomous driving, and fleet management.
  5. Consumer Electronics: Wearables, smartwatches, fitness trackers, and smart home systems.
  6. Security: Video surveillance cameras requiring medium bandwidth.

Hardware Compatibility

5G RedCap is designed to be compatible with existing 5G network infrastructure. Telecom operators can support RedCap devices with a software upgrade to their existing networks, without the need for new hardware deployments. This makes it an attractive option for network operators looking to expand their IoT offerings without significant additional investment.

Backwards Compatibility with 4G

While 5G RedCap is primarily designed to work with 5G networks, it does offer a migration path for devices currently using 4G LTE. The technology is comparable to low-end LTE device categories such as Cat-2, Cat-3, or Cat-4 in terms of peak rates and complexity. This allows for a smoother transition from 4G to 5G for many IoT applications.5G RedCap devices can potentially replace existing 4G-powered LTE devices, especially in scenarios where the full capabilities of 5G are not required but improved performance over 4G is desired. This makes it an ideal stepping stone for the UK’s IoT ecosystem as it transitions from 4G to 5G technologies.

In conclusion, 5G RedCap represents a significant advancement in cellular IoT technology, offering a balanced solution for a wide range of applications in the UK and beyond. Its ability to provide enhanced connectivity without the full complexity of standard 5G positions it as a key driver in the growth of IoT sectors and the broader adoption of 5G technologies.

Teltonika 5G Redcap Routers

As a leader in IoT connectivity solutions, Teltonika have already started to add 5G redcap routers to their range with the RUT271 and RUT976 Redcap 5G routers so this technology will certainly shake up the applications for 5G Redcap connectivity.

Investing in a 5G router, even if you currently only have access to 4G in your area, can provide several advantages that may justify the purchase:

Future-Proofing Your Connectivity

A 5G router is designed to work with both current 4G networks and future 5G networks. As 5G infrastructure expands, having a compatible router ensures you are ready to take advantage of faster speeds and lower latency when it becomes available in your area.

Enhanced Performance Features

Higher Speeds and Lower Latency

While you may only receive 4G speeds now, 5G routers are built to handle significantly higher data rates and lower latency. This means that when you do connect to a 5G network, your internet experience will be markedly improved.

Advanced 4G Capabilities

Many 5G routers, such as the Teltonika RUTX50, support advanced 4G LTE categories like CAT20. This allows for carrier aggregation, enabling the router to combine multiple 4G frequency bands for faster speeds and improved performance, even on 4G networks. For example:

  • Teltonika RUTX50 (5G router): Supports 5G and 4G LTE CAT20, offering download speeds up to 2.0 Gbps on 4G networks.
  • Teltonika RUT901 (4G router): Supports 4G LTE CAT4, with maximum download speeds of 150 Mbps on 4G networks.

The RUTX50’s advanced 4G capabilities mean it can provide significantly better performance on existing 4G networks compared to older 4G routers.

Increased Device Capacity

5G routers support a greater number of simultaneous connections, making them ideal for households or offices with multiple devices needing internet access. This is particularly beneficial as smart home devices become more common.

Improved Network Reliability

Many 5G routers come with advanced technology that enhances signal strength and coverage, which can improve your current 4G experience. Features like external antennas may help capture stronger signals even in areas with poor coverage.

Cost-Effective Solution

Depending on your internet usage and local service plans, using a 5G router could be more cost-effective than traditional broadband options. This is especially true in rural areas where wired connections are limited or expensive.

Adaptability for Various Use Cases

A 5G router can be beneficial for various applications, including remote work, streaming, gaming, and IoT devices. It is designed to handle the demands of modern internet usage, which often requires high bandwidth and low latency.In summary, while you may only have access to 4G currently, purchasing a 5G router like the Teltonika RUTX50 can provide significant long-term benefits. It prepares you for future connectivity improvements, enhances current performance through advanced 4G capabilities, and offers greater reliability and flexibility compared to older 4G routers like the RUT901.

5G Standalone (5G SA) in the UK

5G SA represents the next evolution of mobile networks, offering significant improvements over both 4G and 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) technologies. In the UK, major operators like EE, Vodafone, and Virgin Media O2 are gradually rolling out 5G SA networks, with coverage expanding across major cities and urban areas.

Key Features of 5G SA

  • Pure 5G core network architecture
  • Ultra-low latency (sub-1ms in ideal conditions)
  • Network slicing capabilities
  • Enhanced support for massive IoT deployments
  • Improved energy efficiency and reliability

Consumer Applications

Mobile Devices

Many newer smartphones support 5G SA, including:

  • Apple iPhone 14 and 15 series
  • Samsung Galaxy S23 and S24 lineup
  • Google Pixel 7 and 8 series
  • Select models from OnePlus, Xiaomi, and Oppo

Consumers can expect improved mobile broadband experiences, including:

  • Faster download and upload speeds
  • Smoother video streaming and gaming
  • Enhanced augmented and virtual reality applications

Business Applications

5G SA enables businesses to leverage advanced connectivity for:

  • Remote working solutions with improved video conferencing
  • Cloud-based services with minimal latency
  • Enhanced customer experiences through AR/VR in retail
  • Improved data analytics and real-time decision making

Industrial Applications and 5G Routers

Industrial sectors stand to benefit significantly from 5G SA technology, particularly through the use of specialised 5G routers.

Key Industrial Applications

  • Smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0
  • Autonomous vehicles and smart transportation
  • Remote operations in hazardous environments
  • Large-scale IoT deployments in smart cities
  • Precision agriculture and smart farming

Industrial 5G Routers

Industrial 5G routers are ruggedised devices designed to provide reliable, high-speed connectivity in challenging environments. Key features include:

  • Robust construction for harsh conditions
  • Wide operating temperature ranges
  • Multiple antenna options for improved signal strength
  • Advanced security features
  • Support for various industrial protocols

Notable Manufacturers and Products

  1. Teltonika Networks
    • RUTX50: Industrial-grade 5G router with dual SIM, GNSS, and 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports
  2. Proroute
    • H685 WRT: Compact industrial IoT/M2M 5G router with Gigabit LAN/WAN and WiFi
  3. Sierra Wireless
    • AirLink XR90: Rugged 5G router for mission-critical applications
  4. Cradlepoint
    • R1900: Enterprise-grade 5G router for branch and mobile deployments
  5. Digi
    • TX54: 5G-ready cellular router for transportation and industrial IoT
  6. Robustel
    • R5020: Industrial 5G cellular router with dual SIM and VPN support

These routers are designed to meet the demanding requirements of industrial IoT, offering features such as:

  • High-speed 5G connectivity with 4G fallback
  • Advanced security protocols and VPN support
  • Remote management capabilities
  • Dual SIM for network redundancy
  • Integration with industrial control systems

Private 5G Networks

5G SA technology enables the creation of private networks for businesses and organisations. These offer:

  • Enhanced security and data privacy
  • Customised network performance
  • Greater control over network resources
  • Improved reliability for mission-critical applications

Several UK industries are exploring private 5G networks, including manufacturing, ports, and universities.

Challenges and Considerations

While 5G SA offers significant advantages, there are challenges to consider:

  • Higher initial investment for network operators and businesses
  • Limited device compatibility compared to 4G and 5G NSA
  • Potential security concerns as new technology is implemented
  • Need for spectrum allocation and regulatory approval

As the UK continues to adopt 5G SA technology, we can expect to see more innovative applications across consumer, business, and industrial sectors. The development of specialised 5G routers and devices will play a crucial role in realising the full potential of this next-generation mobile technology, enabling new use cases and improving connectivity across various industries.

Creating your own 5G private network involves several key steps and considerations:

Planning and Design

  1. Assess your needs: Determine the coverage area, number of devices, and specific applications you’ll be running.
  2. Spectrum allocation: Decide between using licensed, shared, or unlicensed spectrum.
  3. Network architecture: Choose between a fully private network or a hybrid model with a public network.

Hardware Selection

Select appropriate hardware from reputable manufacturers:Core Network:

  • Athonet
  • Druid Software
  • Metaswitch

Radio Access Network (RAN):

  • Airspan
  • Nokia
  • Ericsson

User Equipment:

  • Sierra Wireless
  • Cradlepoint
  • Telit

Implementation

  1. Site survey: Conduct a thorough assessment of your location to optimise coverage.
  2. Installation: Deploy the core network, RAN, and any necessary small cells or distributed antenna systems.
  3. Configuration: Set up network slicing, quality of service parameters, and security protocols.

Testing and Optimisation

  1. Conduct thorough testing to ensure coverage, capacity, and performance meet your requirements.
  2. Optimise the network based on real-world usage and feedback.

Ongoing Management

  1. Implement a network management system for monitoring and maintenance.
  2. Regularly update firmware and software to ensure security and optimal performance.
  3. Train your IT staff or consider managed services for ongoing support.

Regulatory Compliance

Ensure your private 5G network complies with local regulations and obtain necessary licenses or permissions from regulatory bodies like Ofcom in the UK.By following these steps and working with experienced vendors and integrators, you can successfully create and deploy your own 5G private network tailored to your specific needs.

We have complied a glossary of terms in relation to LTE 4G, 5G, M2M and IoT including the most popular and some obscure terms.

TermAcronym (if applicable)Definition
2GSecond GenerationEarly digital cellular networks designed primarily for voice calls and text messages.
3GThird GenerationMobile networks that introduced mobile internet and video calling capabilities.
3GPP3rd Generation Partnership ProjectA collaboration between telecommunications standards organizations that develops protocols for mobile telecommunications.
4GFourth GenerationMobile networks offering faster mobile broadband internet for smartphones and other devices.
5GFifth GenerationLatest cellular technology providing ultra-fast speeds, low latency, and massive device connectivity.
5G Core5GCThe core network specifically designed for 5G systems.
5G New Radio5G NRThe radio access technology standard for 5G networks.
5G Non-Standalone5G NSA5G deployment that relies on existing 4G LTE infrastructure for core network functions.
5G Standalone5G SAPure 5G network architecture that doesn’t rely on 4G LTE infrastructure, using a 5G core network.
6LoWPANIPv6 over Low-Power Wireless Personal Area NetworksA networking technology that allows IPv6 packets to be sent over low-power wireless networks.
802.11ahWi-Fi HaLowLong-range, low-power Wi-Fi for IoT applications.
Access and Mobility Management FunctionAMFA key component of the 5G core network responsible for handling connection and mobility management.
Access Point NameAPNThe name of a gateway between a mobile network and another computer network, often the public Internet.
Application FunctionAFRepresents external applications that interact with the 5G core network.
Authentication KeyKiA 128-bit value used in authenticating the SIMs on a GSM mobile network.
Authentication Server FunctionAUSF5G core component responsible for user authentication.
BeamformingTechnique to focus wireless signals towards specific devices, improving efficiency and reducing interference.
Bluetooth Low EnergyBLEA power-efficient version of Bluetooth for IoT devices.
Carrier AggregationCATechnique to increase bandwidth and data rates by combining multiple carrier channels.
Category M1Cat-M1Another term for LTE-M, a low-power wide-area (LPWA) technology designed to support IoT devices with low to medium data rate requirements.
CDMA Subscriber Identity ModuleCSIMA SIM for CDMA phones.
Cloud Radio Access NetworkC-RANCentralized, cloud computing-based architecture for radio access networks.
Constrained Application ProtocolCoAPA specialized web transfer protocol for constrained nodes and networks in IoT.
Control and User Plane SeparationCUPSArchitecture that separates control and user plane functions in the network.
DASH7An open source RFID-standard based protocol for wireless sensor networking.
Data-Only SIMA SIM card that provides only mobile data services, without call or text capabilities.
Device-to-Device CommunicationD2DDirect communication between devices without routing through a base station.
Dual SIMA feature in phones that allows the use of two SIM cards simultaneously, useful for separating personal and business lines or for travel.
Dynamic Spectrum SharingDSSAllows 4G and 5G to coexist in the same spectrum.
Edge ComputingBringing computation and data storage closer to the location where it’s needed to improve response times and save bandwidth.
Embedded SIMeSIMA form of programmable SIM that is embedded directly into a device, allowing remote provisioning.
Embedded Universal Integrated Circuit CardeUICCA software-based SIM that allows remote SIM provisioning and management.
Enhanced Mobile BroadbandeMBB5G use case focusing on high-speed data for applications like 4K streaming and VR.
E-UTRA NR Dual ConnectivityEN-DCFeature allowing UEs to connect to both 4G LTE and 5G NR simultaneously in NSA mode.
Evolved Packet CoreEPCThe core network for 4G LTE systems.
Fair Usage PolicyRestrictions placed on “unlimited” data plans, especially when roaming, to prevent excessive use.
FemtocellSmall, low-power cellular base station for residential or small business use.
Fog ComputingExtending cloud computing to the edge of the network.
Frequency Division DuplexFDDMethod where uplink and downlink transmissions use different frequencies.
Frequency Range 1FR1Sub-6 GHz frequency bands used in 5G (410 MHz to 7125 MHz).
Frequency Range 2FR2mmWave frequency bands used in 5G (24.25 GHz to 52.6 GHz).
Global SIM CardA SIM card designed for international travelers, offering coverage in multiple countries, often with competitive rates.
High-band 5GFrequencies above 24 GHz (mmWave), offering extremely high speeds but limited coverage.
Integrated Circuit Card IdentifierICCIDThe identifier of the actual SIM card itself – its serial number.
Integrated SIMiSIMA SIM technology integrated directly into the device’s main processor or cellular modem chip.
International Mobile Subscriber IdentityIMSIA unique number associated with all GSM and UMTS network mobile phone users.
Internet of ThingsIoTNetwork of interconnected devices that can collect and exchange data.
IoT SIM CardSpecialized SIM cards designed for Internet of Things (IoT) devices, often with M2M (Machine-to-Machine) communication capabilities.
IP Multimedia Services Identity ModuleISIMAn application running on a UICC smart card in a 3G phone.
Key Local ReferenceKLRA key used in the SIM for local authentication.
Local SIM CardA SIM card purchased in the country you’re visiting, often offering better local rates than international roaming.
Long Range Wide Area NetworkLoRaWANAn open protocol for long-range, low-power IoT communications.
Long Term EvolutionLTEA 4G technology designed to provide high-speed wireless communication for mobile devices.
Long Term Evolution for MachinesLTE-MA type of low power wide area network radio technology standard designed to support IoT through lower device complexity and extended coverage.
Low-band 5GFrequencies below 1 GHz, offering wide coverage but lower speeds.
Low-Power Wide-Area NetworkLPWANNetwork technologies designed for long-range communications at a low bit rate, optimized for IoT and M2M applications.
Machine-to-MachineM2MDirect communication between devices using any communications channel, including wired and wireless.
Massive Machine-Type CommunicationsmMTC5G use case enabling connectivity for a vast number of IoT devices.
Massive Multiple-Input Multiple-OutputMassive MIMOAdvanced MIMO technology using a very large number of antennas to enhance 5G performance.
Medium Access ControlMACProtocol layer in 5G NR managing scheduling and multiplexing.
Message Queuing Telemetry TransportMQTTA lightweight messaging protocol for IoT.
MetrocellSmall cell for high-capacity urban deployments.
MicrocellSmall cell for outdoor urban areas.
Mid-band 5GFrequencies between 1-6 GHz, balancing coverage and speed.
Millimeter WavemmWaveHigh-frequency bands (24-100 GHz) used in 5G for extremely high data rates over short distances.
Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory NumberMSISDNThe telephone number of the SIM card in a mobile/cellular phone.
Mobile Virtual Network OperatorMVNOA company that provides mobile phone services but doesn’t own its own network infrastructure.
ModbusA serial communication protocol widely used in industrial IoT applications.
Multi-access Edge ComputingMECA network architecture concept that enables cloud computing capabilities at the edge of the cellular network.
Multi-IMSIA technology that allows a single SIM card to have multiple IMSIs, useful for reducing roaming costs.
Multi-Network SIM CardA SIM card that can connect to multiple carrier networks in a given country, automatically switching to the strongest signal.
Multiple-Input Multiple-OutputMIMOTechnology using multiple antennas to improve wireless network performance.
Narrowband Internet of ThingsNB-IoTA low power wide area network radio technology standard that focuses on indoor coverage, low cost, long battery life, and high connection density.
Network Data Analytics FunctionNWDAF5G core component that provides data analytics and insights about the network.
Network Exposure FunctionNEF5G core component that exposes network capabilities to external applications.
Network FunctionNFIndividual components within the 5G core network architecture.
Network Function VirtualizationNFVTechnology that virtualizes network node functions into building blocks for communication services.
Network Repository FunctionNRF5G core component that maintains a repository of available network functions.
Network Slice Selection FunctionNSSF5G core component responsible for selecting the appropriate network slice for a UE.
Network SlicingAbility to create multiple virtual networks on a single physical infrastructure in 5G.
New Radio UnlicensedNR-UExtension of 5G NR to operate in unlicensed spectrum.
Next Generation NodeBgNBThe 5G base station equivalent to the 4G eNodeB.
Non-Orthogonal Multiple AccessNOMAA technique that allows multiple users to share the same time and frequency resources.
Non-Public NetworkNPNPrivate 5G networks for specific organizations or industrial applications.
Non-Terrestrial NetworksNTNIntegration of satellite and airborne communication platforms into 5G networks.
Open Radio Access NetworkO-RANAn industry initiative to make radio access networks more open and intelligent.
Operator CodeOPCA code used in SIM authentication algorithms.
Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple AccessOFDMAA multi-user version of OFDM used in 4G and 5G.
Orthogonal Frequency-Division MultiplexingOFDMA method of encoding digital data on multiple carrier frequencies.
Over-the-AirOTAMethod of distributing new software, configuration settings, and even updating encryption keys to devices like cell phones.
Packet Data Convergence ProtocolPDCPProtocol layer in 5G NR responsible for header compression and security.
Personal Identification NumberPINA numeric password used to authenticate a user to a system.
Personal Unblocking KeyPUKA code used to unlock a SIM card that has been blocked after too many incorrect PIN entries.
Physical LayerPHYLowest layer in 5G NR responsible for actual transmission and reception of radio signals.
PicocellSmall cell for larger indoor areas like offices or shopping centers.
Policy Control FunctionPCF5G core component that manages policy rules in the network.
Postpaid SIM CardA SIM card associated with a contract, where usage is billed after the fact, typically monthly.
Prepaid SIM CardA SIM card with a pay-as-you-go model, where credit is purchased in advance of use.
Quality of ServiceQoSAbility to provide different priorities to different applications, users, or data flows.
Radio Access NetworkRANThe part of a mobile network that connects user devices to the core network.
Radio Link ControlRLCProtocol layer in 5G NR handling segmentation and retransmission.
Roaming PartnerA foreign mobile network that has an agreement with your home network to provide service when you’re abroad.
Roaming SIM CardA SIM card that allows you to use your phone on different networks when traveling abroad, often with reduced rates compared to standard roaming.
Self-Organizing NetworkSONTechnology designed to make planning, configuration, management, and optimization of mobile networks simpler and faster.
Service Communication ProxySCPComponent in 5G core that facilitates communication between network functions.
Service Data Adaptation ProtocolSDAPNew protocol layer introduced in 5G for QoS management.
Service-Based ArchitectureSBAArchitecture style used in 5G core where network functions are modeled as services.
Session Management FunctionSMFA 5G core network component that manages each UE session.
SigfoxA proprietary ultra-narrowband technology for IoT.
SIM LockingA restriction placed on a device by a mobile carrier that prevents it from being used with other carriers’ SIM cards.
SIM SwappingThe process of transferring a mobile number from one SIM card to another, sometimes used fraudulently.
SIM ToolkitA standard of the GSM system that enables the SIM to initiate actions for various value-added services.
SIM UnlockingThe process of removing the SIM lock from a device, allowing it to be used with any carrier’s SIM card.
Small CellLow-powered radio access nodes that operate in licensed and unlicensed spectrum with a range of 10 meters to a few kilometers.
Soft SIMA software-based SIM that can be downloaded and installed on a device, similar to an eSIM.
Software-Defined NetworkingSDNApproach to network management that enables dynamic, programmatically efficient network configuration.
Steering of RoamingThe practice of directing roaming subscribers to preferred partner networks when abroad.
Sub-6 GigahertzSub-6 GHz5G frequency bands below 6 GHz, offering a balance of speed and coverage.
Subscriber Identity ModuleSIMA small card that securely stores the international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) and related key used to identify and authenticate subscribers on mobile devices.
Synchronization Signal BlockSSBSet of signals in 5G NR used for cell search and initial access.
ThreadAn IPv6-based mesh networking protocol for IoT.
Time Division DuplexTDDMethod where uplink and downlink transmissions share the same frequency but are separated in time.
Time-Sensitive NetworkingTSNSet of standards enabling deterministic real-time communication over Ethernet.
Travel SIM CardA prepaid SIM card specifically designed for travelers, offering data, calls, and texts in multiple countries.
UE Route Selection PolicyURSPMechanism in 5G for steering traffic to appropriate network slices.
Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency CommunicationURLLC5G use case for applications requiring extremely low latency and high reliability.
Unified Data ManagementUDM5G core component that stores and manages subscriber data.
Universal Subscriber Identity ModuleUSIMAn application for UMTS mobile telephony running on a UICC smart card.
User EquipmentUEAny device used directly by an end-user to communicate on the network.
User Plane FunctionUPFHandles user data traffic in the 5G core network.
Voice over LTEVoLTETechnology for delivering voice calls over 4G LTE networks.
Voice over New RadioVoNRTechnology for delivering voice calls over 5G networks.
ZigbeeA low-power, short-range wireless standard for IoT.

4G Plus, also known as 4G+ or LTE-Advanced, is an enhanced version of standard 4G technology available in the UK. This improved mobile broadband service offers significantly faster data speeds and improved network capacity, making it particularly beneficial for businesses, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) applications, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

Key Features of 4G Plus

Carrier Aggregation

The primary technology behind 4G Plus is carrier aggregation. This technique allows devices to simultaneously access multiple frequency bands of the 4G spectrum, effectively combining them to increase bandwidth and boost data speeds. In the UK, this can result in download speeds of up to 300 Mbps, a substantial improvement over standard 4G.

Improved Network Capacity4G Plus not only offers faster speeds but also enhances overall network capacity. This is particularly advantageous in densely populated areas or during peak usage times, ensuring more consistent performance for business-critical applications.

Mobile Broadband Routers

Both 4G and 5G mobile broadband routers are available in the UK, catering to different needs and coverage areas.

4G Routers

4G routers are widely available and offer good coverage across most of the UK. For businesses looking to leverage 4G Plus technology, it’s essential to choose a router with the right modem category:

  • Category 4 modems: Support basic 4G speeds
  • Category 6 modems: Support 4G Plus with carrier aggregation
  • Category 9 and above: Offer enhanced 4G Plus capabilities with improved carrier aggregation

5G Routers

5G routers provide even faster speeds and lower latency than 4G Plus, making them ideal for high-demand business applications. However, 5G coverage is currently limited to major urban areas in the UK but using a 5G router that supports CAT18/ CAT19 or CAT20 4G LTE can provide high speed 4G+ with carrier aggregation.

Business and IoT Applications

4G Plus and advanced mobile broadband routers offer significant benefits for businesses and IoT deployments:

Remote Working

High-speed, reliable connections enable seamless remote working, supporting video conferencing, cloud-based applications, and large file transfers.

M2M Communication

4G Plus provides the bandwidth and reliability needed for complex M2M systems, such as industrial automation or smart city infrastructure.

IoT Deployments

The improved network capacity of 4G Plus supports large-scale IoT deployments, enabling businesses to connect and manage numerous devices efficiently.

Temporary Connectivity

Mobile broadband routers offer quick and flexible connectivity solutions for pop-up locations, construction sites, or temporary offices.

Failover Solutions

4G Plus routers can serve as reliable backup connections for businesses, ensuring continuity in case of fixed-line outages.

As 4G Plus continues to expand across the UK, businesses and IoT developers can leverage this technology to enhance their connectivity, improve operational efficiency, and support innovative applications.

When selecting a mobile broadband solution, it’s crucial to consider the specific requirements of your use case, the available coverage in your area, and the capabilities of the router to ensure you can fully benefit from 4G Plus technology.

Maximum Recommended 4G/5G Antenna Cable Lengths

For optimal performance, the maximum recommended cable lengths for 4G and 5G antennas are:

  • 4G antennas: Up to 15 meters (49 feet)
  • 5G antennas: Up to 10 meters (33 feet)

These recommendations are general guidelines and can vary based on cable type, signal strength at the antenna installation location compared to the router installation site, and the specific frequencies used. In areas with strong signal reception, longer cable runs may be possible, while weaker signal areas may require shorter cables to maintain performance.

4G and 5G Frequency Bands in the UK

4G bands:

  • 800 MHz (Band 20)
  • 900 MHz (Band 8)
  • 1800 MHz (Band 3)
  • 2100 MHz (Band 1)
  • 2300 MHz (Band 40)
  • 2600 MHz (Band 7 & 38)

5G bands:

  • 700 MHz (Band n28)
  • 3.4-3.8 GHz (Band n78)
  • 26 GHz (mmWave, future use)

Antenna Cable Length and Signal Loss

Signal loss increases with cable length and frequency. For example:

  • RG58 cable at 2.4 GHz: ~1.56 dB loss per meter
  • LMR400 cable at 2.4 GHz: ~0.22 dB loss per meter

For 5G frequencies (e.g., 3.5 GHz), losses are even higher:

  • RG58 cable at 3.5 GHz: ~1.97 dB loss per meter
  • LMR400 cable at 3.5 GHz: ~0.27 dB loss per meter

To minimize signal loss, use high-quality, low-loss cables such as LMR400 or better for longer runs, especially with 5G installations.

Technical Concepts

  1. dBi (Decibels relative to isotropic): Measures antenna gain compared to a theoretical isotropic antenna. Higher dBi indicates more focused signal in a specific direction.
  2. SINR (Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio): Measures the quality of wireless connections. Higher SINR indicates better signal quality.
  3. RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power): Measures the average power received from a single reference signal in cellular networks. Typically ranges from -140 dBm (weak) to -80 dBm (strong).
  4. RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality): Indicates the quality of the received signal. Ranges from -19.5 dB (poor) to -3 dB (excellent).

Antenna Applications and Considerations

  1. Vehicle Installations: Use low-profile, multi-band antennas (e.g., Panorama LGMM-7-27-24-58)
  2. Building Installations: Employ directional panel antennas for external walls or roofs
  3. Rural Broadband: Utilize high-gain directional antennas
  4. IoT and M2M: Opt for compact omnidirectional antennas (e.g., 2J Antennas 2J010)
  5. Temporary Installations: Choose portable, high-gain antennas

When selecting antennas, consider:

  • Frequency bands supported
  • Gain and directionality
  • Environmental factors
  • Mounting options

Alternatives for Long Cable Runs

When cable runs exceed the recommended lengths, consider these alternatives:

  1. Outdoor 4G/5G Routers:
    • 4G Option: OTD140
    • 5G Options: FNB600 or MC889

TYhese outdoor LTE 4G / 5G Routers are powered using POE with a single Ethernet Connection: This means you can use se a long Ethernet cable from the outdoor router to the indoor location (up to 100 meters without signal degradation)

Benefits of this approach:

  • Improved signal quality (router / modem / antennas are all together in a single weatherproof box so optimum connectivity and speeds can be achieved)
  • Flexibility in router placement
  • Simplified installation with a single cable for data and power
  • Easy network expansion

Signal Propagation and Building Penetration

5G signals, especially in higher frequency bands, face greater challenges with building penetration:

  • Low-band (700 MHz): Similar penetration to 4G
  • Mid-band (3.4-3.8 GHz): Moderate penetration, may struggle with some building materials
  • High-band (mmWave): Poor penetration, best suited for outdoor or line-of-sight applications

Modern, energy-efficient buildings with metallized glass and reinforced concrete pose significant challenges for signal penetration. For example, a thermally-efficient building may cause 50 times more signal loss at 800 MHz and 240 times more at 39 GHz compared to traditional buildings.

By carefully considering these factors and choosing the appropriate antenna setup or alternative solutions, businesses and IoT deployments can optimize their 4G and 5G connectivity, even in challenging environments with poor indoor signal reception or the need for long cable runs.

Always aim to keep cable lengths as short as possible while balancing practical installation considerations and signal strength requirements.

Cellular networks offer wide coverage, reliability, security, and the ability to handle large numbers of connected devices, making them ideal for IoT and M2M applications.

Cellular IoT solutions enable real-time data transmission, remote device configuration, and over-the-air updates, enhancing remote management efficiency.

Industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and smart cities can greatly benefit from cellular IoT connectivity for various applications.

Cellular networks provide real-time location data and vehicle diagnostics, improving route optimization, maintenance scheduling, and overall fleet efficiency.

Cellular networks offer built-in security features like encryption, authentication, and isolated network slices, ensuring data protection for IoT devices.

Businesses can use multi-carrier SIM cards, external antennas, or consider the use of outdoor 4G and 5G routers to improve connectivity in challenging areas.

Costs include hardware (devices and routers), data plans, platform fees, and potential integration expenses. However, the benefits often outweigh the costs for many applications.

By continuously monitoring equipment performance and transmitting data in real-time, cellular IoT enables early detection of potential issues, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

Yes, many cellular IoT platforms offer APIs and other integration tools to connect with existing business systems like ERP, CRM, or custom applications.

Cellular networks are highly scalable, capable of supporting thousands of devices across wide geographical areas, making them suitable for businesses of all sizes and growth stages.

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