5G can standalone without LTE thanks to new Ericsson software
Ericsson announced the commercial global availability of its Ericsson Standalone 5G New Radio (NR) software for 5G mid- and low bands.
With this software, communications service providers can operate 5G NR technology without the need for signaling support from an underlying LTE network. This will allow service providers to add 5G NR to existing 4G sites with a simpler architecture, or deploy 5G independently in areas such as factories to support enterprise applications and services.
“Over the past year, we have worked closely with many customers to successfully deploy Non-standalone 5G,” say Per Narvinger, Head of Product Area Networks, Ericsson. “These 5G networks have enabled higher data speeds and new use cases. Now we are taking the next step in the evolution of 5G by making generally available the software to support Standalone 5G NR networks. These standalone capabilities will enable even more use cases and applications.”
Standalone 5G NR will enable applications that require low latency such as augmented and virtual reality, smart factories and connected vehicles. With a super-fast response time, a Standalone 5G NR device can connect six-times faster to a Standalone 5G network than a device operating in NSA mode. This will give the user a better experience.
Ericsson has completed Standalone 5G interoperability with key ecosystem partners. Standalone 5G devices are expected to become available later in 2020. The announcement notes Ericsson Radio System equipment deployed since 2015 can support Standalone 5G NR capabilities with a software installation.
With the general availability of Standalone 5G NR software on low and mid bands, Ericsson now offers an end-to-end Standalone 5G solution. This is supported by the Ericsson 5G Core (5GC) and the company’s diverse 5G radio portfolio.
Article Topics
4G | 5G | Ericsson | private wireless | radio | signalling | wireless
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