AT&T is offering localised private LTE and 5G in CBRS spectrum using Ericsson’s pre-packed radio access and cloud-based core networking products, along with its own multi-access edge computing portfolio. The pair are targeting enterprises looking to take advantage of the newly-available CBRS band in the US, at 3.55-3.7 GHz.
AT&T’s Private Cellular Networks offer incorporates on-premises edge and networking portfolio, including Ericsson’s plug-and-play Industry Connect private cellular kit, and complemented by its own MEC infrastructure. The pair called the bundle for enterprises “another tool in their networking utility belt”. The pair are targeting factories, warehouses, and mines, among industrial venues for localised private networking in the US.
Ericsson’s Industry Connect platform, initially for private LTE, offers a pathway to 5G, according to the Swedish vendor. It affords information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) professionals an “easy-to-use… network management experience”, it said. “The solution aims to make cellular technology rapidly deployable for factory and warehouse staff.”
Ericsson cited private LTE as an enabler of sensor-heavy digital twin inspections, mobility for human machine interface (HMI) instructions for workers, collision avoidance and remote control for autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs), and collaborative robotics for automated operations. Compatriot transport company Scania has already implemented the Industry Connect package, at its smart production lab in Södertälje, in Sweden.
AT&T said in a statement: “These networks are purpose-built for specific use cases in industrial environments like factories and warehouses, as well as remote locations like mines. This new dedicated cellular connectivity option expands AT&T’s portfolio of highly secure, reliable on-premises coverage with predictable latency that can support high device density.”
Robert Boyanovsky, vice president of enterprise mobility at AT&T Business, said: “It’s always been about options for our customers, especially as they are innovating faster than ever. We’ve been expanding our networking capabilities, and this is a new way for businesses to explore what they can do with private cellular networks – including on-premises edge computing and connecting more IoT devices.”
Jeanette Irekvist, vice president of business solutions and emerging business at Ericsson, said: “[This] strengthens our collaboration. We’re leveraging our innovation platform to accelerate the digital transformation of industries and provide cost-efficient private network solutions. As the industry and ecosystem evolve, we see a need for a wide range of solutions that can address diverse operational, business and commercial requirements.”
