Compare the Peplink B One Router Series

The Peplink B One series routers combine the best features from the Peplink Surf SOHO and the Peplink Balance 20, delivering robust performance and flexibility for various networking needs. The Peplink B One series is designed to offer enhanced network performance with a range of features suitable for small to medium-sized businesses, remote workers, and home offices. Each model in the series caters to different connectivity needs, from basic wired internet to advanced 5G capabilities.

Shared Features of Peplink B One Series

  • Improved Speeds and WiFi
    • Throughput: Up to 1 Gbps
    • WiFi Technology: WiFi 6
    • User Capacity: Supports 1-150 users
  • Enterprise Software Features
    • VLAN support
    • Multiple WiFi SSIDs
    • WLAN Controller for external AP management
  • Robust & Reliable Connectivity
    • 2 wired WANs, 1 USB WAN, and 2 WiFi WAN connections
    • SpeedFusion technology for bonding multiple internet connections
  • Easy Integration with Starlink
    • Bond multiple Starlink connections
    • Load balance with other internet services (5G/LTE, Cable, Fiber, FWA)
  • Made for Fixed Wireless Access (FWA)
    • Designed for use with MSP 5G/LTE Gateway devices
    • Load balancing and bonding various internet sources
  • Easy Management
    • Local management or via Peplink’s cloud manager, InControl 2 (1 year included with PrimeCare)

Unique Features of Each Model

Peplink B One

  • Embedded Cellular Modem: None; USB port can support external cellular modem
  • Use Case: Fixed locations with stable wired connections 

Peplink B One Plus

  • Embedded Cellular Modem: LTE Cat 4
  • Use Case: Businesses needing mobile connectivity or backup internet

Peplink B One 5G

  • Embedded Cellular Modem: 5G 
  • Use Case: High-demand environments with strong 5G infrastructure

Specifications Comparison Table

FeaturePeplink B OnePeplink B One PlusPeplink B One 5G
Product CodeB-ONE-T-PRMB-ONE-PLUS-LTE-US-T-PRMB-ONE-5GN-T-PRM
Throughput1 Gbps1 Gbps1 Gbps
WiFi TechnologyWiFi 6WiFi 6WiFi 6
Ethernet WAN Ports2x 10/100/1000M2x 10/100/1000M2x 10/100/1000M
Ethernet LAN Ports4x 10/100/1000M4x 10/100/1000M4x 10/100/1000M
Cellular ModemNoneLTE (Cat 4)5G (with fallback to LTE Cat 20)
USB WAN Ports111
WiFi WAN Ports222
SpeedFusion VPN Throughput400 Mbps (No Encryption)/ 200 Mbps (AES Encryption)400 Mbps (No Encryption)/ 200 Mbps (AES Encryption)400 Mbps (No Encryption)/ 200 Mbps (AES Encryption)
User Capacity1-1501-1501-150
Dimensions (mm)262 x 161 x 33.5262 x 161 x 33.5262 x 161 x 33.5
Power Supply12V 3A 4 Pin12V 3A 4 Pin12V 3A 4 Pin
SIM SlotN/A4FF Nano-SIM4FF Nano-SIM
PrimeCare Warranty Cost$49/year$49/year$49/year

Which Peplink B One Router is Right for You?

The Peplink B One series offers versatile solutions for a range of connectivity needs. Whether you require a basic wired setup, an LTE backup, or cutting-edge 5G capabilities, there’s a Peplink B One router to meet your needs. By understanding the unique features and strengths of each model, you can choose the one that best fits your network requirements.

If you’re interested in one the Peplink B One series routers, reach out to the 5Gstore.com sales team for more information.

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Why Use a Third-Party Router with Your Starlink Setup?

Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet service, has revolutionized connectivity, particularly in remote and underserved areas. The Starlink kit, which includes a satellite dish (often referred to as “Dishy McFlatface”) and a WiFi router, provides users with everything needed to get online. However, some users might find that utilizing a third-party router offers several advantages over the provided Starlink router. 

Enhanced Performance and Features

Advanced Network Management

Third-party routers, particularly those from premium brands, offer advanced network management features. This includes more sophisticated Quality of Service (QoS) controls, which allow users to prioritize bandwidth for critical applications, such as video conferencing or online gaming. With these features, you can ensure that your most important activities receive the bandwidth they need.

Better Range and Coverage

The Starlink router might not provide sufficient coverage for larger homes or properties with multiple buildings. Third-party routers often come with more powerful antennas and support for mesh networking, enabling you to extend your WiFi coverage far beyond what the Starlink router can achieve. This ensures a strong and reliable connection throughout your entire space.

Customization and Flexibility

More Configuration Options

Third-party routers offer a wealth of configuration options that allow for a highly customizable network setup. Whether you need to set up a guest network, create a VPN, or implement complex firewall rules, third-party routers provide the tools necessary for these tasks. This level of customization is particularly beneficial for tech-savvy users who want to tailor their network to specific needs.

Compatibility with Other Devices

For users with existing network equipment, integrating a third-party router can be seamless. Brands like Cradlepoint, Digi International, Inseego, Peplink, and Sierra Wireless offer routers that are designed to work well with a variety of network devices, making it easier to create a unified and efficient network.

Reliability and Robustness

Industrial-Grade Durability

Some routers are often designed for industrial and enterprise use, meaning they are built to be more durable and reliable than consumer-grade equipment. This makes them an excellent choice for users in harsh environments or those who require a more robust networking solution.

Failover and Redundancy

Many third-party routers support multiple WAN connections, allowing for automatic failover between different internet sources. For example, you could set up your network to switch to a 4G/5G connection if your Starlink service experiences downtime. This ensures uninterrupted internet access, which is crucial for businesses and users who rely heavily on a stable connection.

Bandwidth Bonding

Bandwidth bonding is a powerful feature available on third-party routers, such as those from Peplink and Digi International. This technology allows you to combine multiple internet connections into a single, faster, and more reliable connection. By aggregating the bandwidth from different sources, bandwidth bonding can significantly enhance your internet experience, providing increased speed and redundancy.

Bandwidth bonding works by simultaneously utilizing multiple internet connections to distribute data packets across these connections. This process is managed by the router, which seamlessly combines the data streams from various sources, such as your Starlink satellite connection, a 4G/5G cellular link, and even a traditional DSL or cable connection. The router then reassembles these packets into a single data stream for your devices, resulting in a faster and more reliable internet connection.

Security Enhancements

Advanced Security Features

Third-party routers typically offer advanced security features that are not available on the Starlink router. These features include Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS), and more granular parental controls. By utilizing a router with these capabilities, you can better protect your network from external threats and manage access more effectively.

Support for VLANs and Multiple WiFi SSIDs

One significant advantage of using a third-party router is the support for Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs). VLANs allow you to segment your network into different virtual networks, each with its own security and management policies. This is particularly useful for networks with multiple WiFi SSIDs that require segregation. For instance:

  • Guest Networks: Keep your guests on a separate VLAN to prevent them from accessing your private network.
  • IoT Devices: Isolate your IoT devices on their own VLAN to enhance security and prevent them from interacting with more critical network resources.
  • Work and Home: Create distinct networks for work and personal use, ensuring that sensitive work data remains secure.

The Starlink router offers basic functionality, like splitting the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, but lacks the advanced capabilities to create and manage VLANs. Third-party routers typically provide these advanced features, offering greater control and security over your network.

Regular Firmware Updates

Premium router brands often provide regular firmware updates to address security vulnerabilities and improve performance. This proactive approach to security can help safeguard your network against the latest threats and ensure that your router remains up-to-date with the latest features.

The StarLink Router: Is It Right For You?

While the Starlink router provides a convenient and straightforward way to get online, it may not meet the needs of all users. Whether you’re looking for enhanced performance, greater customization, improved reliability, or advanced security features, a third-party router can offer significant advantages. By investing in a high-quality router, you can optimize your Starlink setup and enjoy a more powerful, secure, and reliable internet experience. 

For more information, reach out to the 5Gstore team and we’ll discuss your requirements and help determine a solution for your StarLink setup.

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5G at Airports: From C-Band Controversies to Seamless Connectivity

These days, as most of us travel, we have an expectation for seamless 5G connectivity. With 5G becoming more available in urban areas, travelers have grown accustomed to fast, reliable internet access everywhere. This includes at airports. However, achieving robust indoor 5G coverage in airports presents unique challenges due to the structure of these facilities. Despite these hurdles, the aviation industry has made significant strides in deploying dedicated indoor 5G networks to enhance the travel experience.

The Challenge of Indoor 5G Coverage

While outdoor 5G networks thrive, penetrating indoor spaces, especially those constructed from glass and steel like airports, remains a challenge. Airports, unlike other large venues such as stadiums, require a network that can handle a variety of connectivity demands, secure communications, and mixed indoor and outdoor environments. This complexity has driven airports to the forefront of indoor 5G deployment, setting an example for other industries.

Leveraging 5G at Airports

5G connectivity plays an important role in enhancing various activities for travelers at airports. This ensures a seamless and efficient journey. From checking in for your flight to finding entertainment while you wait to board, we are constantly connected. Having a continuous, reliable 5G connection makes it a more convenient, efficient, and enjoyable experience.

The Operational Benefits for Airports

While there are many traveler benefits, airports also reap significant operational advantages from 5G connectivity. These include:

  • Enhanced Security Communications: 5G enables robust two-way radio communications for security personnel.
  • Tarmac Operations: Ground support crews benefit from reliable tarmac communications.
  • IoT Integration: IoT devices manage area access, environmental controls, and information monitors.
  • Automated Services: Parking ramps and rental car lots utilize 5G for automated access points.
  • Private Networks: Airports and airlines can deploy private 5G networks for management purposes.

Investing in 5G networks ensures that airports can improve operational efficiency, security, and customer satisfaction, paving the way for future technological advancements.

Airports’ success with 5G makes a compelling case for broader adoption across various industries. Total connectivity is increasingly expected by customers, and the operational efficiencies provided by secure, ubiquitous indoor 5G coverage are undeniable. Airports have proven that 5G is the future of high-performance connectivity, ready to transform experiences and business models across the board.

C-Band and Altimeter Concerns: A Journey to Resolution

The journey to implementing 5G in airports hasn’t been without challenges, particularly concerning the potential interference with airplane radio altimeters. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have been in discussions to address these issues. Initially, the deployment of 5G C-Band was delayed due to concerns about its impact on radio altimeters, crucial for determining aircraft altitude, especially in poor visibility.

After extensive debate and compromise, the aviation industry was given until February 2024 to update or retrofit older radio altimeters. This agreement followed temporary restrictions and ongoing discussions about making these limitations permanent. The FAA’s latest proposal requires replacing or retrofitting faulty altimeters, with a significant number of aircraft already compliant.

Despite supply chain challenges, major airlines are working towards meeting the deadline. Non-compliant aircraft may face operational restrictions, ensuring that passenger safety and connectivity remain a priority.

The Future of 5G in Airports

As indoor 5G becomes integral to airport operations, it transitions from a best practice to an essential requirement. The aviation industry’s proactive approach to deploying 5G networks sets a benchmark for other sectors. By embracing this technology, airports can enhance traveler experiences and streamline operations, ultimately leading the way in the broader adoption of indoor 5G connectivity. As we look to the future, 5G will undoubtedly continue to revolutionize how we travel and connect, making journeys smoother and more enjoyable than ever before.

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The Benefits of Automated, Periodic Speed Tests on Routers

Maintaining optimal performance of Wide Area Network (WAN) connections is crucial for both personal and business activities. With the multitude of factors affecting your WAN performance, having something in place to test the connection could provide a great deal of help. Automated, periodic speed tests, for example, can play a vital role in ensuring that your network runs smoothly and efficiently. We’re going to explore the benefits of such speed tests, review various use cases, and discuss the specific capabilities offered by Digi Remote Manager.

Why Automated, Periodic Speed Tests are Beneficial

  1. Consistent Performance Monitoring: Automated speed tests provide a continuous insight into your WAN connection’s performance. This helps in identifying patterns, such as peak usage times when the connection slows down, and periods of optimal performance.
  2. Early Detection of Issues: Regular speed tests can detect issues early on, such as degradation in speed, latency spikes, or intermittent connectivity problems. This allows for prompt troubleshooting before minor issues escalate into major disruptions.
  3. Service Level Agreement (SLA) Compliance: For businesses, ensuring that internet service providers (ISPs) meet their promised SLAs is critical. Periodic speed tests offer empirical data to hold ISPs accountable and ensure they deliver the agreed-upon service quality.
  4. Capacity Planning and Network Management: Understanding your network’s performance trends helps in planning for future capacity needs. Whether it’s upgrading your plan, adding redundancy, or changing providers, data from regular speed tests supports informed decision-making.
  5. Enhanced User Experience: Consistent network performance directly impacts user experience. For businesses, this means smoother operations, better customer service, and higher productivity. For home users, it means uninterrupted streaming, gaming, and browsing.
  6. Historical Data Analysis: Automated speed tests generate a history of performance data. Analyzing this data helps in understanding long-term trends and making strategic decisions about network infrastructure investments.

Use Cases for Automated, Periodic Speed Tests

  1. Small to Medium Enterprises: Businesses can use automated speed tests to ensure their network supports critical applications like VoIP, cloud services, and video conferencing. Regular testing helps in maintaining the quality of these services, leading to higher productivity and customer satisfaction.
  2. Internet Service Providers (ISPs): ISPs can leverage automated speed tests to monitor the quality of service across their network. This helps in proactive maintenance, reducing downtime, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
  3. Educational Institutions: Schools and universities with digital learning platforms can benefit from regular speed tests to ensure that their infrastructure can handle the demands of online education, including video streaming, virtual classrooms, and digital resource access.
  4. Remote Work Environments: As remote work becomes more prevalent, companies need to ensure that employees have reliable internet connections. Automated speed tests can help in assessing and improving the remote work infrastructure.
  5. Smart Homes: For smart homes with numerous connected devices, automated speed tests help ensure that the network can handle multiple devices simultaneously, providing a seamless experience for all users.

Digi Remote Manager and “Data Service Request” Setting

Digi Remote Manager is a comprehensive cloud management system designed to simplify the management of devices and networks. One of its key features is the “Data Service Request” setting, which allows users to automate periodic speed tests. 

Here’s how it works:

  • Creating a Schedule: The “Data Service Request” setting enables users to set up a schedule for speed tests. This can be tailored to specific needs, such as testing during peak hours, off-peak hours, or at regular intervals throughout the day.
  • Automated Testing: Once the schedule is set, the system will automatically conduct speed tests based on the predefined criteria. This removes the need for manual testing and ensures consistency in data collection.
  • Viewing History: Users can view the history of these tests on a dedicated page within the Remote Manager. This historical data is crucial for analyzing trends, identifying issues, and making informed decisions about network management.
  • Customizable Alerts: The system can also be configured to send alerts if the speed tests reveal performance issues. This proactive approach helps in addressing problems before they affect end-users.

Note that using this feature will incur some additional data usage. The more frequent the tests, the higher the usage. We recommend using caution when setting a speed test schedule. For example, set a schedule for one day and then review your data usage from that day. This should give you a general idea of how much data you may want to dedicate to speed tests. For details on how to track data usage on your Digi router, check out our detailed article on Digi Intelliflow.

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5Gstore Now Stocking the Peplink B One Plus

We are excited to announce that the Peplink B One Plus is now available and ready to ship at 5Gstore! This advanced router is designed to meet the diverse connectivity needs of branch offices, retail stores, small businesses, and homes.

Why Choose the Peplink B One Plus?

  • Reliable Connectivity: Featuring an LTE cellular modem, dual Ethernet WAN ports, and WiFi 6 capabilities, ensuring seamless internet access.
  • Advanced Features: Includes SpeedFusion technology for Hot Failover, WAN Smoothing, and Bandwidth Bonding (note that this requires a valid PrimeCare plan, of which 1 year is included).
  • Flexible Integration: Easily integrates with Starlink, fixed wireless access technology, and your ISP’s modem.
  • Robust Performance: Supports up to 1Gbps router throughput and up to 150 users, perfect for various settings.

Key Specs

  • WAN Interface: 2x Ethernet, 1x Cellular Modem, 1x USB-C
  • LAN Interface: 4x Ethernet
  • Wi-Fi Interface: Dual-Band WiFi 6
  • Power Input: 10V-30V DC, AC Adapter

What’s Included

  • 1x Peplink B One Plus Router
  • 2x LTE Antennas
  • 2x Dual Band WiFi Antennas
  • 1x 12V 3A 4 Pin Power Supply

Order Now

Don’t miss out on securing the Peplink B One Plus for your connectivity needs. Visit 5Gstore to purchase your Peplink B One Plus today and enhance your internet experience with unmatched reliability and performance.

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Exploring Different Ways to Power Your Router

In our hyper-connected world, routers are the unsung heroes that keep our devices online, ensuring smooth communication, streaming, and working from home. Given their crucial role, it’s essential to understand the various ways to power these devices. This knowledge can help optimize setup, enhance reliability, and even allow for more mobile networking solutions. Let’s dive into the different methods of powering routers: AC, DC hardwire/GPIO, PoE, battery, and converters.

AC Power

The Standard Solution

AC (Alternating Current) power is the most common method for powering routers, especially in indoor settings. When you purchase a router, it typically comes with an AC adapter that plugs into a standard electrical outlet. This method is straightforward and user-friendly, making it ideal for home and office environments.

Advantages:

  • Simplicity: Easy to set up and use, with no additional equipment needed.
  • Availability: Standard in most homes and offices, requiring no special infrastructure.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited Mobility: Requires proximity to an electrical outlet.
  • Potential for Clutter: Multiple devices can lead to tangled cables.

DC Hardwire/GPIO

The Advanced Option

DC (Direct Current) hardwiring or GPIO (General-Purpose Input/Output) connections offer a more customizable power solution, often used in specialized setups. This method can be advantageous in automotive or industrial environments where ignition sensing and other integrated control systems are beneficial.

Advantages:

  • Ignition Sensing: Can power the router on or off based on the vehicle’s ignition status, saving power and protecting the battery.
  • Customization: Ideal for integrating with other hardware in complex setups.

Disadvantages:

  • Complex Installation: Requires technical knowledge and possibly professional installation.
  • Permanent Installation: Typically more difficult to move once installed.

Power over Ethernet (PoE)

The Streamlined Solution

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a fantastic option for reducing cable clutter and simplifying installations. PoE allows a single Ethernet cable to provide both data and power to the router, making it an elegant solution for both home and professional environments.

Advantages:

  • Reduced Clutter: Combines data and power delivery into one cable.
  • Flexibility: Allows placement of the router in locations without nearby power outlets.

Disadvantages:

  • PoE Switch or Injector Required: Additional hardware is needed to inject power into the Ethernet cable.
  • Distance Limitations: Ethernet cables have a maximum effective length, typically up to 100 meters.

Battery Power

The Mobile Solution

Battery-powered routers offer unmatched convenience and mobility. These routers often come with built-in batteries or can be connected to an external battery pack, making them ideal for travel, temporary setups, or areas with unreliable power.

Advantages:

  • Mobility: Perfect for use on the go, in remote locations, or during power outages.
  • Convenience: Eliminates the need for a constant power source.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited Battery Life: Requires regular recharging or battery replacement.
  • Potential for Lower Performance: Some battery-powered routers may have reduced functionality compared to their AC-powered counterparts.

Which Power Solution Is Right For You?

Understanding the various ways to power your router can help you optimize your network setup, enhance mobility, and ensure reliable connectivity. Whether you stick with the standard AC power, opt for the streamlined PoE setup, or embrace the mobility of battery power, each method has its unique advantages and potential drawbacks. Evaluate your specific needs and environment to choose the best power solution for your router, ensuring you stay connected whenever and wherever you need.

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Introducing the Peplink B One Plus

We’re excited to announce the release of the Peplink B One Plus, a versatile router designed to meet the diverse connectivity needs of branch offices, retail stores, small businesses, and homes. Packed with advanced features and robust hardware, the B One Plus ensures seamless and powerful network performance, setting a new standard for reliability and flexibility.

Hardware Highlights

The Peplink B One Plus is engineered with state-of-the-art hardware components to deliver unparalleled performance:

  • LTE Cellular Modem: Embedded Cat 4 cellular modem with a redundant SIM slot (4FF Nano) for reliable internet connectivity, even in remote locations.
  • Dual Ethernet WAN Ports: Two 10/100/1000M Ethernet ports ensure continuous connectivity, providing a failover option if one internet line goes down.
  • Four Ethernet LAN Ports: Four 10/100/1000M Ethernet ports to connect multiple devices effortlessly.
  • USB-C Interface: Additional connectivity options through a USB-C port, such as tethering your USB cellular modem, Peplink MAX Adapter, phone or connecting a USB-to-Ethernet adapter.
  • Wi-Fi 6: Simultaneous Dual-Band (2.4GHz / 5GHz) Wi-Fi 6 with 2×2 MIMO technology for faster and more reliable wireless connections.

Performance 

The B One Plus excels in delivering high-speed internet and robust performance:

  • Router Throughput: Capable of handling up to 1Gbps, ensuring high-speed data transfer.
  • SpeedFusion Technology: Enhances network performance with features like Hot Failover, WAN Smoothing, and Bandwidth Bonding. A PrimeCare subscription, which includes these features, is provided for the first year.
    • SpeedFusion VPN Throughput: Up to 400 Mbps (no encryption) and 200 Mbps (256-bit AES encryption), making it ideal for secure, high-speed VPN connections.
  • Recommended Users: Supports 1-150 users, making it perfect for various settings from small businesses to larger branch offices.

Key Features

The Peplink B One Plus is loaded with features to enhance your connectivity experience:

  • Automated Load Balancing: Optimizes network performance with advanced load balancing algorithms.
  • Traffic Steering: Prioritizes important network traffic to ensure applications run smoothly.
  • Advanced QoS Settings: Includes individual bandwidth limit and application prioritization to manage network resources effectively.
  • Captive Portal: Provides a secure and customizable access point for users.

Environmental Specifications and Certifications

Built to withstand various environmental conditions, the B One Plus is both durable and reliable:

  • Operating Temperature: Functions efficiently between -40°F and 113°F (-40°C to 45°C).
  • Humidity: Operates in environments with 10% – 90% non-condensing humidity.
  • Certifications: FCC, CE, and RoHS certified, ensuring compliance with international standards.

What’s Included with Your Purchase

When you purchase the Peplink B One Plus, you’ll receive everything you need to get started:

  • 1x B One Plus Router
  • 2x LTE Antennas
  • 2x Dual Band Wi-Fi Antennas
  • 1x 12V 3A 4 Pin Power Supply

Get Connected with Peplink B One Plus

The Peplink B One Plus is your go-to solution for reliable, high-speed, and flexible internet connectivity. With its advanced hardware, robust performance, and comprehensive features, it is designed to meet the demands of modern businesses and homes. Don’t miss out on elevating your connectivity experience—purchase the Peplink B One Plus today!

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AT&T Suffers A Nationwide Outage

Amidst our highly connected lives, a nationwide outage from one of the major cellular providers in the USA is happening again as of today, June 4, 2024. 

In a statement sent to CNN, AT&T said a problem is preventing several of their customers from completing calls between carriers. Yes, that actually means that if you’re on Verizon or T-Mobile, you won’t be able to contact an AT&T subscriber. 

Some calls however continue to go through without issue. “The carriers are working as quickly as possible to diagnose and resolve the issue,” a company spokesperson said.

AT&T has not shared any numbers, but according to the website Down Detector shows reports of issues starting around 1:00 pm ET and they slowly climbed from that point.

Among the affected cities is New York City, Chicago, Philadelphia, Dallas, Pittsburgh and Indianapolis. These are showing the most issue reports. 

Due to the issues between carriers, Down Detector also showed a spike in reports from thousands of Verizon customers.

Thankfully, it was reported that 911 calls are going through. Although there were some social media posts that begged to differ. It was found that these ‘down alerts’ that users were receiving were by accident and AT&T is currently looking into this further. 

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Ericsson, Qualcomm, and Dronus Showcase Breakthrough 5G mmWave Drone in U.S. Smart Factory

In a remarkable technological milestone, Ericsson has partnered with Qualcomm and Dronus to demonstrate a state-of-the-art 5G millimeter wave (mmWave) powered drone at Ericsson’s USA 5G Smart Factory. This collaboration marks a significant leap in industrial automation, showcasing the first use of a natively mmWave 5G device in an industrial setting.

The successful test leveraged Qualcomm’s QRB5165 processor, Telit Cinterion’s 5G mmWave technology, and Ericsson’s end-to-end private 5G network. This proof of concept underscores the transition from traditional wired or WiFi connections to direct, high-speed 5G connectivity, which enhances both mobility and performance in industrial applications.

Enhancing Industrial Automation with 5G mmWave

The shift from wired connections, which limit mobility, and WiFi connections, which can be unstable and slow, to native 5G mmWave technology is a game-changer. Native 5G mmWave eliminates the need for intermediary devices like external gateways or hotspots, providing a seamless, high-speed connection. This innovation is crucial for real-time applications and opens up new possibilities for industrial automation.

Carlos H. Torres, Head of Industry 4.0 at Ericsson’s USA 5G Smart Factory, highlighted the importance of this demonstration: 

“This successful demo helps lay the foundation for future integration of 5G-powered drones in industrial settings, particularly for inventory management. At the same time, this proof of concept hosted by our USA 5G Smart Factory innovation team using drones for mmWave and private networks shows Ericsson’s commitment to advancing the non-mobile broadband ecosystem.”

In the Ericsson USA 5G Smart Factory, the 5G-connected drone, powered by the Qualcomm QRB5165 processor, showcased its capabilities through autonomous inventory checks in the factory’s warehouse. The drone’s indoor-optimized flight control system, combined with live video streaming cameras, allows it to navigate the complex indoor environment efficiently, performing tasks faster and more accurately than manual methods.

Automation Driving Industrial Efficiency

The demonstration highlights the growing trend of automation in factories and warehouses, driven by competitive pressures, the need for higher productivity, and cost reduction. With the rise of e-commerce, efficient warehousing solutions are in high demand. Businesses are investing in automation to streamline their supply chains and respond flexibly to market trends. Robust 5G networks are essential for high-bandwidth industrial applications, and this successful test underscores the potential of 5G mmWave in meeting these demands.

Strategic Implications for Ericsson

Ericsson’s focus on developing 5G use cases for advanced applications like unmanned aerial vehicles positions the company as a leader in the evolving industrial automation landscape. The successful demonstration of the 5G mmWave drone paves the way for future commercial use in inventory management, enhancing Ericsson’s commercial prospects.

Ericsson’s commitment to advancing 5G technology is evident in its extensive 5G network deployments. The company currently operates 162 live 5G networks across 69 countries, and it continues to innovate in 5G system development to maintain its market leadership.

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Comparing the Cradlepoint IBR600C Series and the S700 Series Routers

With the discontinuation of the Cradlepoint IBR600C series, the new Cradlepoint S700 series routers have stepped in as their replacements. Both are very similar IoT focused routers that use a Cat 4 LTE modem. So what sets them apart from each other? This article provides a detailed comparison of the specifications and features of both series to help users understand the advancements and changes.

Key Differences

Performance

  • Firewall Throughput: The S700 series significantly improves firewall throughput at 480 Mbps compared to the IBR600C’s 75 Mbps.
  • IPSec VPN Throughput: The S700 series also enhances IPSec VPN throughput at 50 Mbps, up from the IBR600C’s 10 Mbps.
  • GNSS Support: The S700 series offers active GNSS support, which generally provides better accuracy and reliability compared to the passive GNSS support in the IBR600C series.

Connectivity

  • LAN Connectivity: The S700 series supports the latest WiFi 6 standard and includes two Gigabit Ethernet ports, whereas the IBR600C supports WiFi 4 and a single GbE port.
  • Dual Modem Support: The IBR600C supports dual modems via an expansion dock, while the S700 series does not offer dual modem support.

Security and Management

  • VPN Tunnel Support: The S700 series doubles the VPN tunnel support to 10, compared to the IBR600C’s 5.
  • Zero Trust Security: The S700 series includes enhanced security with zero trust networking through NetCloud Exchange (NCX) Secure Connect. This feature is not available in the IBR600C series.
  • Public Safety Networks: Both series support FirstNet Trusted and Verizon Frontline, but the S700 series additionally supports T-Mobile Connecting Heroes.

Design and Build

  • Enclosure: The S700 series features an IP30 rated metal enclosure, providing a higher level of protection compared to the IBR600C’s standard metal build.
  • Dimensions: The S700 series is slightly larger, measuring 4.8 x 4.6 x 1.3 inches compared to the IBR600C’s 4.6 x 4.5 x 1.2 inches.

Overview

FeatureIBR600C SeriesS700 Series
PositioningSmall, semi-ruggedized LTE router for IoTSemi-ruggedized router with GNSS/GPS and zero trust security for mission-critical IoT
Firewall Throughput75 Mbps480 Mbps
IPSec VPN Throughput10 Mbps50 Mbps
WAN Connectivity4G Cat 4, Gigabit Ethernet (GbE)4G Cat 4, Gigabit Ethernet (GbE)
LAN ConnectivityWi-Fi 4, 1x GbEWi-Fi 6, 2x GbE
SIM Card Size2FF Mini4FF Nano
ManagementNetCloudNetCloud
USB WAN Port11
EnclosureMetalIP30 rated metal
Dual Modem SupportYes (via expansion dock)No
Public Safety NetworksFirstNet Trusted, Verizon FrontlineFirstNet Trusted, T-Mobile Connecting Heroes, Verizon Frontline
VPN Tunnel SupportUp to 5Up to 10
GNSSPassive (GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo)Active (GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo)
Operating Temperature-4 °F to 140 °F-4 °F to 140 °F
Private Cellular Network SupportYes (excluding CBRS)Yes (excluding CBRS)
LTE BandsB2, B4, B5, B12, B13, B14, B66, B71B2, B4, B5, B12, B13, B14, B66, B71
3G BandsB2, B4, B5B2, B4, B5
Power Input9-33 VDC9-33 VDC
Dimensions4.6 x 4.5 x 1.2 inches4.8 x 4.6 x 1.3 inches

The Cradlepoint S700 series routers bring significant improvements in performance, security, and connectivity over the discontinued IBR600C series. With higher throughput capabilities, advanced Wi-Fi 6 support, and zero trust security, the S700 series is well-suited for mission-critical IoT applications. Despite the lack of dual modem support, the S700 series offers robust features and enhanced security to meet the demands of modern IoT deployments.

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