In the United States, there is a portion of the radio frequency spectrum allocated for private mobile networks. This allocation allows individuals, organizations, and businesses to build their own mobile networks and have greater control over their communications infrastructure.
ORIGIN OF PRIVATE NETWORKS
The allocation of private mobile network spectrum can be traced back to the early 1990s when the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) first set aside frequencies for private land mobile radio (PLMR) use. This spectrum was initially used for two-way radio communication for businesses such as taxis, delivery companies, and construction sites. Over time, advancements in technology led to the development of digital mobile networks, and the PLMR spectrum was eventually expanded to include private LTE networks.
Private LTE networks operate on the same technology as the LTE networks used by national carriers such as AT&T and Verizon, but they are not part of the public network infrastructure. Instead, private LTE networks are deployed on a specific site or location, providing secure and reliable wireless communication for a particular area.
This concept of private mobile networks is not unique to the United States. Several countries, including Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe, also have spectrum allocations for private mobile networks. These networks are often used in remote or isolated areas where traditional communication infrastructure may be limited or unreliable.
WHY PRIVATE MATTERS
Private LTE networks can be beneficial in a range of scenarios, from industrial automation to emergency response. For example, a manufacturing facility could use a private LTE network to support industrial Internet of Things (IoT) devices, enabling real-time monitoring and control of production processes. A mining company could deploy a private LTE network to provide reliable communication in an underground mine, where traditional cellular service may not be available.
In addition to industrial applications, private LTE networks are also being used in public safety and emergency response scenarios. In the event of a natural disaster, a private LTE network can be quickly deployed to provide communication services to emergency responders and the public.
While private LTE networks may not be necessary for every site or business, they offer a unique and valuable solution in certain scenarios. With greater control over their communication infrastructure, businesses can tailor their network to their specific needs and ensure reliable and secure wireless communication for their operations.
Let’s look at some practical use cases for very different areas of industry.
EDUCATION
One use case for local LTE with maximum benefits to its users in the education sector is providing a reliable and secure network for remote learning.
In recent years, remote learning has become increasingly popular, with more and more students attending classes virtually from home or other locations. However, many remote learning environments can be plagued with connectivity issues, which can make it difficult for students to participate in class or access necessary materials.
By deploying a local LTE network, educational institutions can provide a reliable and secure connection for remote learning, regardless of the student’s location. This can improve the quality of the remote learning experience, making it easier for students to stay engaged and participate in class discussions.
Additionally, a local LTE network can provide benefits beyond remote learning. For example, it can be used to improve campus safety and security by enabling real-time communication and surveillance. A local LTE network can also support campus-wide IoT devices, such as sensors that monitor energy consumption or air quality.
In summary, a local LTE network in the education sector can provide a range of benefits, from improving the quality of remote learning to enhancing campus safety and supporting IoT devices. By investing in a local LTE network, educational institutions can create a more connected and secure learning environment for their students and faculty.
MANUFACTURING
A use case for local LTE with maximum benefits to its users in the manufacturing sector is enabling industrial automation.
Manufacturing companies often rely on complex production processes that involve a wide range of industrial equipment and machinery. These machines generate a large amount of data that needs to be collected, analyzed, and acted upon in real-time to optimize production efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve quality control.
By deploying a local LTE network, manufacturing companies can enable industrial automation and create a more connected and efficient production environment. Industrial IoT devices, such as sensors and monitoring systems, can be connected to the local LTE network, enabling real-time data collection and analysis. This data can be used to identify production inefficiencies, predict maintenance needs, and prevent equipment failures before they occur.
In addition to improving production efficiency, a local LTE network can also enhance workplace safety. Industrial automation can help reduce the need for workers to perform dangerous or repetitive tasks, while remote monitoring and control systems can help prevent accidents and reduce the risk of injury.
Furthermore, a local LTE network can provide benefits beyond the manufacturing facility itself. For example, it can support the deployment of autonomous vehicles for transportation of goods within the facility or to nearby distribution centers.
In summary, a local LTE network in the manufacturing sector can provide a range of benefits, from improving production efficiency and quality control to enhancing workplace safety and enabling the deployment of autonomous vehicles. By investing in a local LTE network, manufacturing companies can create a more connected and efficient production environment, leading to increased profitability and growth.
PHARMA
Chemical plants involve complex and potentially hazardous processes that require strict monitoring and control. Operators need to monitor the chemical reactions, temperature, pressure, and other parameters to ensure safe and efficient production. In addition, chemical plants need to comply with strict environmental regulations to minimize the impact of their operations on the environment.
By deploying a local LTE network, chemical plants can enable real-time monitoring and control of their production processes and environmental conditions. Industrial IoT devices, such as sensors and monitoring systems, can be connected to the local LTE network, providing operators with real-time data and alerts.
This data can be used to detect and prevent hazardous situations before they occur, enabling operators to take timely corrective actions. In addition, the local LTE network can enable remote monitoring and control, allowing operators to make adjustments to the production process from a safe distance.
Furthermore, a local LTE network can support the deployment of autonomous robots and drones for hazardous inspections and monitoring tasks. These autonomous devices can reduce the risk of injury and improve the accuracy and efficiency of inspections.
In summary, a local LTE network in chemical plants can provide a range of benefits, from improving safety and environmental monitoring to enabling the deployment of autonomous devices. By investing in a local LTE network, chemical plants can create a safer and more efficient production environment, leading to increased productivity and profitability while minimizing the impact on the environment.
SUMMARY
Choosing the right connectivity option for your land (site) depends on your specific needs and requirements.
- Fixed internet is a good option when you need a reliable and high-speed connection for applications that require a lot of bandwidth, such as video streaming or large file transfers.
- National mobile internet provided by carriers like AT&T can provide mobile connectivity on the go but may not be as reliable as fixed internet.
- Private LTE networks are ideal for scenarios where you need a reliable and secure connection for specific use cases, such as industrial automation. Private LTE networks can provide real-time data collection and analysis and can support IoT devices, making them an attractive option for businesses looking to optimize their operations.
Ultimately, the choice of connectivity option will depend on your specific needs and requirements, and it’s important to consider factors such as reliability, speed, security, and cost when making a decision.
