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According to a recent Nokia blog, Nokia and Rockwell Automation have teamed up to evaluate private 5G SA networks using CBRS spectrum for real-time industrial control with EtherNet/IP protocols. This partnership leverages Nokia's 4G LTE and 5G technologies to optimize manufacturing operations with high-speed, reliable connectivity, supporting multiple automation devices behind a single wireless router, without any of the special tunneling or extra equipment.
By integrating Rockwell's industrial automation expertise with Nokia's wireless technology, the collaboration is intended to improve operational efficiency through automation, real-time data collection. and analytics, streamlining processes, reducing downtime and increasing overall efficiency. Additionally, the partnership helps ensure a secure and dedicated network infrastructure, crucial for industrial applications.
The testbed developed by the partnership successfully validated low latency and jitter in the current industrial 5G setup, supporting EtherNet/IP and safety I/O communications. 5G SA and CBRS provide a cost-effective method for US-based enterprises to enjoy benefits of licensed spectrum. Using CBRS spectrum helps ensure interference-free operation for critical automation equipment, maintaining uninterrupted performance. A private network with on-site hardware keeps data on premises, minimizing latency and enhancing privacy and security. Additionally, private cellular uses SIM cards, simplifying device management.
Standalone (SA) 5G networks operate without a legacy LTE network, reducing costs and complexity while providing faster connections. As a result, using 5G for all network traffic (control plus user data) is seen as greatly reducing initial connection and handover times. For use cases requiring both 5G and LTE, LTE can be integrated with 5G SA networks.
Key use cases for private 5G SA include:
Edge-to-cloud connectivity: 5G’s low-latency and high-speed connectivity enables real-time data transmission and reliable coverage for AI and ML applications.
Connected worker applications: 5G’s coverage and bandwidth enhance mobile tools like analytics, digital twins, and AR.
Mobile asset applications: 5G SA’s fast handover times and low latency improve connectivity for Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs).
Untethered stationary industrial assets: 5G reduces the need for wired communications, increasing agility and reducing retooling time for industrial operations.
Further information on industrial private networks is available here.