Why 5G Private Networks Are Critical to Enterprise Digital Transformation

Today’s enterprise manufacturing facilities are undergoing a seismic shift. This new era of change, known as “Industry 4.0,” is forcing companies to digitize nearly every aspect of manufacturing. Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), robotics, “cobots,” sophisticated sensors, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are all bringing tremendous value to production and supply chain processes.

But in order for enterprises to truly gain value from this onslaught of smarter, more connected “things” across domains, certain advantages in network resilience and speed are required.

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Consider adopting 5G private networks. With ultra-fast speeds and near-zero latency, enterprises can alleviate reliability issues associated with connected systems. The ecosystem is attracted to the greater degree of flexibility enabled by 5G, as wired connections are no longer required.

5G-enabled factories will be able to communicate with faster response times and stay connected to far more sensors than any previous wired or wireless system. For example, 5G has a latency of 1-10m, while Wi-Fi and 4G will be closer to 20m or more; factories with 5G will also be able to connect more devices per unit area, ten times more than Wi-Fi and 4G.

5 benefits of 5G private networks for enterprises

1. Maximize operational efficiency

By capturing real-time data from IoT devices or sensors installed on production lines, organizations can now gain deeper insights into all aspects of operations and be able to analyze processes with greater precision. Through near-real-time data and the use of artificial intelligence, the condition of machines and actual manufacturing processes can be monitored and evaluated, allowing immediate adjustments to be made to optimize the overall effectiveness of the factory.

By leveraging the ultra-high speed and low latency of 5G private networks, automated guided vehicles (AGVs) will now become more common in smart factories or warehouses, improving production efficiency.

2. Supply Chain Optimization

With 5G private networks, greater visibility means seamless optimization of enterprise supply chains. With the use of connected tools and devices, the entire supply chain process is automated by replenishing inventory and parts in a timely manner, ensuring on-time delivery and reducing the risk of delays.

3. Visibility of asset tracking

Knowing the location of all connected devices and machines is critical to achieving efficiency gains within the factory. The emergence of location methods, such as cloud-based cellular positioning, brings game-changing accuracy to private networks. Factories will now be able to locate any 5G-enabled device with 3D sub-meter accuracy. Combined with support for high-density connectivity, companies are now able to track more, lower-value assets, creating a host of new, more accessible use cases.

4. Predictive maintenance

Balancing downtime and maintenance needs for an enterprise’s production facilities is no easy task. By leveraging 5G connectivity, data analytics, and IoT to predict maintenance needs, the risk of downtime due to mechanical failure can be reduced, and predictive maintenance windows can be adequately planned. This is achieved by using 5G coverage to monitor every step on the production line.

5. 5G Private Networks = Improved Worker Safety

Widespread availability of equipment sensors, coupled with 5G’s near-instantaneous response time, can create a safer manufacturing environment. Fewer workers will be required to operate heavy machinery on the factory floor, while emergency stop indicators will be more responsive.

In addition, further efficiency gains can be made by using edge computing in 5G private networks. Sending, retrieving, or computing data at the edge of the network rather than in the cloud is not only much more secure, but it also reduces response times. Saving milliseconds may not sound like a lot, but when considering automation inside a factory, every millisecond counts - especially in environments that are more dangerous for human workers.

By installing 5G tracking sensors in collaborative robotic environments, the activities of workers and automated guided vehicles can be made safe.

Ultimately, 5G private networks are expected to deliver significant operational benefits to businesses. Not only do they bring new capabilities in technology and productivity, but they also deliver strategic value in the form of a stronger competitive advantage.