Finnish communications giant Nokia, in partnership with Anterix, recently celebrated a groundbreaking achievement at their Dallas, Texas laboratory. The companies successfully executed what they tout as the inaugural B106 data call. This innovative leap forward is part of a collaborative effort aimed at harnessing the potential of private wireless networks within the 900MHz spectrum, a resource managed by Anterix, to bolster mission-critical applications for utility companies.
Their collaboration was spurred by the recent inclusion of the B106 standard in 3GPP Release 18, a move that has expanded the horizons for the variety of chipsets and devices that can support private wireless networks geared towards utility companies. Through this standardization, Nokia has adeptly integrated B106 into its AirScale Radio portfolio, thus allowing for a richer ecosystem of devices. Among these are Cat-M devices known for their suitability in utility scenarios.
Nokia’s AirScale Radio innovation not only broadens the availability of devices for utilities but also ensures that existing B8 devices can gracefully transition to the new B106 standard, ensuring that current Nokia customers maintain continuous service. Jeff Pittman, the driving force behind Nokia’s enterprise mobile networks in North America, articulated the significance of the trial. He conveyed the company’s intention to deliver a flourishing device ecosystem that will support utilities in realizing their aspirations for grid automation, enhanced resilience, and bolstered security.
Carlos L’Abbate of Anterix echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the promising prospect of advancing towards 5G with the backing of Nokia and the collective ingenuity of over 100 technology innovators in the Anterix Active Ecosystem. This unity stands as a testament to their commitment to modernizing the electrical grid and achieving sustainability targets. This development was first shared with subscribers of the CommsWire newsletter on April 29, 2024.
Finnish communications giant Nokia, in partnership with Anterix, has made a significant stride in the arena of private wireless networking for utilities by successfully conducting the first B106 data call in their laboratory in Dallas, Texas. This achievement is part of their effort to utilize the 900MHz spectrum, which is managed by Anterix, to improve critical infrastructure for utility companies through private wireless networks.
The importance of private wireless networks for utility companies:
Utility companies require highly reliable and secure communication systems to monitor and control their critical infrastructure. The traditional public mobile networks might not always meet the stringent requirements of these utilities due to factors such as shared bandwidth and potential congestion. Private wireless networks offer a dedicated network for a utility’s operational needs, providing enhanced security, control, and customization.
Challenges and Controversies:
One of the potential challenges in deploying private wireless networks is the significant capital investment required to establish this infrastructure. It can be a barrier for some utilities, especially smaller ones with limited budgets. Furthermore, there could be regulatory challenges while dealing with the spectrum allocation and interference management.
Advantages:
The alliance between Nokia and Anterix has numerous benefits:
– It facilitates the development of a robust ecosystem of devices and chipsets under the new B106 standard.
– Utility companies can benefit from enhanced grid automation, resilience, and security due to the reliability of dedicated wireless networks.
– Nokia’s AirScale Radio innovation allows for the seamless transition of current B8 devices to the new standard.
Disadvantages:
– Initial setup costs of private networks and the need for specialized devices compatible with the B106 standard can be expensive.
– Transition to a new standard may require significant investments in new infrastructure and technology upgrades.
For those interested in the broader context of the companies involved and the details concerning private wireless networking, visit Nokia and Anterix for more information.
The source of the article is from the blog cheap-sound.com