To build truly automated, intelligent and robust industrial applications, communication capabilities must meet a set of stringent requirements. With its unprecedented speeds, 5G networks check all the boxes. Moreover, private 5G offers extensive capabilities, making it ideal for building reliable connectivity in manufacturing applications.
A private 5G network architecture not only grants smart manufacturing the benefits of a 5G cellular network—like high bandwidth, low latency and extensive IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) capabilities—but also ensures interference-free operation with allocated network frequencies. As a result, private 5G networks improve stability and security by allowing the storage of data privately, rather than on a shared public network.
Going wireless
Each year, the manufacturing industry experiences a rise in wireless data transmissions as it embraces industry’s digital transformation.
In key regions promoting smart manufacturing, local governments have already allocated specific frequencies for 5G private networks. These regions include the U.S. (n48), Germany (n77), Australia (n77), Japan (n79), South Korea (n79), and Taiwan (n79). These frequencies are reserved for specific regions to avoid wireless instability caused by interference from public networks. Additionally, the frequencies of telecom providers are leveraged for private 5G networks in certain regions, like China.
Leading global electronic device manufacturers worldwide are already developing their own 5G-specific equipment, such as central units (CUs), distributed units (DUs), and radio units (RUs), as part of the Open Radio Access Network (ORAN) framework. The market’s recognition of the extensive applications of 5G and the development of its architecture are driving this trend. And one of the primary applications is private 5G.
5G benefits for industry
Private 5G networks greatly enhance the security and stability requirements for smart manufacturing. They offer exclusive frequencies for stable signal performance, free from public frequency interference. Additionally, they create a customized network environment that ensures optimal connectivity and security in specific areas.
Another major benefit lies in the capability to store all data on site, rather than on a potentially compromised public network. For example, hackers could intercept data transmitted over a public network or infiltrate a vulnerable network and gain unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Some current private 5G applications in smart manufacturing include fixed-point programmable logic controllers (PLC) and mobile transportation carriers, such as automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).
Navigating the pain points
Reconciling IT and OT (operations technology) priorities is the primary challenge in deploying a private 5G network for smart manufacturing. IT and OT often clash as they prioritize top security and high availability, respectively.
In OT systems, for example, production capacity and occupational safety are prioritized over cybersecurity. The impact of strict cybersecurity measures on production line operations can cause a decline in production capacity. Therefore, conducting an on-site analysis is crucial for obtaining detailed insights into manufacturing processes, OT network architecture and production line assets. It involves recognizing customers’ genuine needs regarding OT and converting them into a language IT can comprehend, aiming for an intelligent system that blends efficiency and security.
However, understanding the differences between OT and IT is only the first step. Industrial private 5G implementation also requires overcoming challenges such as infrastructure deployment, device and endpoint management and system integration:
- Infrastructure deployment: To use private 5G, integrators must construct the infrastructure, including 5G gateways, base stations, 5G core networks and multi-access edge computing. These devices are expensive and demand skilled professionals for deployment because of their technical complexity. Because of the unique nature of each 5G deployment, custom configurations are necessary for every site and cannot be replicated effortlessly.
- Device and endpoint management: It’s challenging to handle multiple devices and endpoints in a private 5G network. Managing all 5G devices often requires customized software for tasks such as authentication, firmware updates, status monitoring and viewing past messages.
- Integration with existing systems: The communication protocols of industrial equipment typically function at Layer 2, while 5G architecture operates at Layer 3 and higher with Internet protocol capabilities. As a result, IT professionals face the challenge of enabling 5G communication to support Layer 2 packet pass-through.
Jun Wang is product manager at Moxa.
