Airspan and partners lead 450MHz ecosystem innovation for utilities

Five technology partners Airspan, Cocus, Cyrus Technology, Frequentis and GCT Semiconductor Holding Inc. (NYSE: GCTS) announce strategic partnership to advance critical communications networks in the utility sector. Collaboration will leverage distinct strengths of each partner to deliver robust, end-to-end solutions in the 450 MHz ecosystem, solving communications challenges faced by utilities.

The utility sector faces challenges in maintaining and modernizing communications networks that often consist of disconnected legacy, proprietary systems. With operations spread across vast and remote areas, utilities face coverage dead spots, especially in regions with underground facilities and challenging terrain. Utility workers frequently travel between locations, requiring reliable connectivity solutions that support smartphones with VoIP and Push-to-Talk capabilities. As utilities modernize their networks, they need more secure connectivity, faster speeds, and lower latency to support smart grid applications.

4G and 5G networks are unifying and modernizing legacy utility systems, while lower frequency bands such as 450 MHz are expanding coverage and improving penetration. 5G also enables secure, low-latency OTT applications such as MC-PTT and video, providing a future-proof solution for the evolving needs of the utility market.

Through this collaboration, the partners aim to deliver a comprehensive end-to-end solution for mission-critical operations, integrating advanced hardware, advanced software and seamless systems integration to create reliable and efficient communication networks.

The initial goal of Airspan’s new Utilities Innovation Lab in Warsaw is to demonstrate a comprehensive system that includes wirelessly connected devices operating at 410 MHz and 450 MHz (B31, B72, B87). The lab will serve as a practical demonstration and test bed for 450 MHz technology, showcasing the integrated capabilities offered by this collaboration:

Airspan High Power Small Form Factor Open RAN Macro solutions offer robust, scalable connectivity for the utility market. Supported by 3GPP-compliant and custom RAN software and managed via the Airspan Control Platform (ACP), this integrated offering provides comprehensive network management and optimization.

Systems integration and Core Network services provided by Cocus, a recognized expert in integrating complex systems and delivering robust services and platforms. Cocus will also be the first partner to provide its Core Network, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility for end-to-end solutions.

Cutting-edge devices from Cyrus Technology, a leading provider of high-quality, rugged industrial phones and devices renowned for their durability and performance in demanding environments. Cyrus Technology is a leader in 450MHz enterprise solutions, digitalisation and Industry 4.0 initiatives.

Frequentis’ MCX/MCS (Mission Critical Voice or MCPTT, Data and Video) solution is 3GPP-aligned, enabling utilities to move away from the silos of proprietary narrowband mission-critical communications solutions and toward a modular and interoperable ecosystem of 3GPP-compliant backend applications and services that can be shaped and adapted with minimal effort to meet changing operational needs.

GCT Semiconductor’s high-performance solutions, developed in partnership with Airspan, offer advanced LTE and 5G RF modules for a wide range of devices tailored to the utility market, increasing operational efficiency.

As part of this collaborative effort, we invite industry leaders, technology partners and media representatives to visit the Utilities Innovation Lab to showcase these innovative solutions in person.