LTE (long term evolution) is a well-established wireless communications standard that reliably supports a wide range of everyday applications that require medium data rates. However, for applications that demand high speeds or place specific requirements, 5G may be the more suitable option. For instance, 5G provides substantially higher bandwidth and lower latency, allowing for faster data transmission and near real-time communication. This is crucial to support various applications, including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), autonomous driving, and the Internet of Things (IoT). 5G provides numerous benefits in terms of speed, capacity, and latency, but it also introduces a significant level of complexity.
5G RedCap, also referred to as 5G NR-Light, is designed specifically for IoT broadband devices such as wearables, video surveillance systems and industrial sensors that need higher data throughput and transmission rates, along with lower latency. In terms of its performance, this positions 5G RedCap between the highly developed 5G application profiles (eMBB and uRLLC) and the energy-efficient IoT technologies (LTE-M and NB-IoT). 5G RedCap is ideal for applications currently based on LTE Cat 1 or Cat 4.
According to Omdia, 5G RedCap modules will constitute 18 percent of total cellular module shipments by 2030. This is just perfect for IoT applications that do not demand ultra-low latency but still require a sufficient amount of data throughput, with the technology providing an optimum blend of cost-effectiveness, performance, and energy efficiency. Furthermore, 5G RedCap is the first 5G technology to offer energy-saving functions (RRM relaxation, DRX). Table 1 shows the specifications and differences between LTE, 5G, and 5G RedCap.
Advantages of 5G-based technologies
The number of networked devices and the amount of data in our digital world are continuously growing. Network capacity is therefore becoming increasingly important. Thanks to the increased network capacity of 5G and 5G RedCap, more devices can be connected simultaneously without any loss of performance. This enables seamless connectivity in environments with a high density of networked devices, for example in smart cities, Industry 4.0 applications, or at major events.
The faster data rates and substantially increased bandwidth of 5G and 5G RedCap provide numerous additional benefits for both businesses and end users. For instance, large files can be downloaded in a matter of seconds or high-resolution videos can be streamed without delay. This enables smooth performance for applications like AR, VR, and cloud gaming.
Reduced latency allows for more efficient bandwidth usage and minimizes network congestion. This results in a more stable and reliable data transmission overall. Real-time information transmission will also be possible, which is crucial for applications in the fields of autonomous driving, telemedicine, and industrial automation.
5G RedCap offers additional functions that have been specially developed for industrial applications. This includes network slicing, a functionality that allows a single network to be divided into multiple virtual networks to support various applications with specific requirements. Further, 5G RedCap offers improved security functions and better integration of IoT devices into the network. Compared to current LTE standards, RedCap will enhance performance, particularly in the uplink, which is vital for router-gateway applications, while also boosting efficiency, which is essential for battery-powered devices like cameras and telematics units. RedCap devices profit from the capabilities of 5G implementations, while utilizing only a subset of its features to strike a perfect balance between functionality, cost, and power consumption. Typical RedCap devices are wearables, sensors, monitoring systems, and other IoT devices.
Variety of applications from wearables to AI
The IoT refers to the networking of physical devices and objects that are able to communicate with each other through the Internet. 5G enables the connection and control of a large number of IoT devices in real time. This allows smart devices, such as wearables and connected vehicles, to be effortlessly integrated into our day-to-day lives. The 5G RedCap system is a key module in this process. It offers a platform for efficient resource and energy management in IoT networks. IoT devices can be managed more intelligently to enhance energy efficiency and prolong battery life.
The rollout of 5G networks is set to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of not just smart homes but entire cities. Sensors and IoT devices monitor and optimize various aspects of urban life, including traffic, energy consumption, waste management, and public safety. The 5G RedCap system facilitates the integration and management of a range of services and applications on a common platform. This allows towns and cities to utilize resources more efficiently and to improve the quality of life of their residents by making informed decisions.
Industrial automation involves the use of technologies like sensors, actuators, and control systems to automate industrial processes and systems. And, with 5G, these processes can become even more efficient and flexible. Fast and reliable data transmission facilitates the real-time transmission of large volumes of data, thereby enabling the more precise control and monitoring of machines and systems. When employing RedCap, businesses can further optimize their production processes, reduce energy consumption, and slash operating costs.
The RedCap system is also a key component of the 5G infrastructure in the increasingly important fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. This is where the system provides a platform for efficient resource and energy management. In fact, the reliable transmission of large volumes of data in real time enhances the response times of AI systems, making interactions with robots more efficient.
Summary
By combining 5G and 5G RedCap, businesses can create innovative solutions for Industry 4.0 applications that demand robust and dependable wireless connectivity. These technologies also enable them to enhance their production processes, boost efficiency, and unlock new business opportunities. And that’s not all: Another version of 5G RedCap, eRedCap (enhanced RedCap), is currently under development and will be launched in 3GPP Release 18. With a data throughput rate of 10 Mbps/5 Mbps (DL/UL), it offers additional energy-saving potential. The HF bandwidth is set to remain at 20 MHz. Commercial availability is expected in 2026. Thanks to innovations in the IoT segment, 5G eRedCap modules are expected to constitute 18 percent of total cellular module shipments by 2030.