With the continuous evolution and popularization of 5G technology, 5G RedCap (Reduced Capability), as an important new member of the 5G family, is gradually becoming an important driving force in the field of the Internet of Things with its low power consumption, low cost and high efficiency. At the same time, as a customized and highly isolated mobile cellular network service, 5G private network provides customizable solutions for communication service capabilities for factories and mines. In this context, the impact of RedCap technology on 5G private network applications is particularly critical.
5G RedCap, the 5G reduced capability version, also known as 5G NR-Light, is a subset of the 5G technology family. This technology achieves basic 5G connectivity with lower complexity and lower cost, and can achieve performance similar to traditional 5G in some scenarios. It is particularly suitable for IoT devices that do not require so much bandwidth and data throughput, such as AGV carts, smart sensors, etc.
5G private networks are built on proprietary network resources based on licensed spectrum, with advantages such as controllable business priority, controllable laying, high security and adjustable dedicated resources. This network model can meet the special needs of vertical industries for communication services, such as high reliability, low latency, and large-scale connections.
It can be foreseen that the application of RedCap to 5G private networks will have the following effects:
- Reduce the cost of private network construction: Traditional 5G terminal equipment has relatively high costs due to its high performance and bandwidth requirements. 5G RedCap equipment effectively reduces the cost of terminal equipment by simplifying functions and reducing bandwidth requirements, which greatly reduces the construction and deployment costs of 5G private networks. This undoubtedly increases the application attractiveness of 5G private networks for vertical industries.
- Enhance the flexibility of private network applications: 5G RedCap technology can support the connection of a variety of IoT devices, including those that are sensitive to power consumption and cost. This expands the application scope of 5G private networks, allowing more types of devices to access private networks and realize customized and diversified communication services.
- Improve private network performance: Although 5G RedCap is reduced in performance compared to full-featured 5G, it can improve the performance of private networks to a certain extent by optimizing network architecture and protocol design while meeting basic connection requirements. For example, with the support of 5G enhanced features such as network slicing, ultra-high reliability and low latency, and precise positioning, 5G RedCap can help private networks achieve more efficient resource allocation and better user experience.
Vankom Technology's lightweight 5GC core network fully supports the RedCap function of 3GPP R17, bringing significant advantages and opportunities to 5G private network applications. It not only reduces network construction costs and improves network efficiency, but also realizes the customization and openness of network functions, meeting the needs of different industries and scenarios. With the continuous development of 5G technology and the continuous expansion of application fields, 5G RedCap is expected to be applied in more fields, further promoting the development and application innovation of 5G private networks.