Subscribe

Tag: 5G

Fleet Managers can Navigate Phase-out of 2G/3G Networks

Posted on by David Priestman

The logistics sector is currently at a crossroads, induced by the global phase-out of 2G and 3G networks. Like any infrastructure upgrade, this transition requires careful planning and strategic adjustments – particularly for those managing lorry and truck fleets, writes Iain Davidson (pictured), Senior Product Manager at Wireless Logic.

Imagine a lorry driver crossing an international border, only to discover that the 2G network they depend on for navigation and tracking has suddenly gone dark. Without warning, they’re left without GPS, real-time updates or vehicle diagnostics. This scenario is not just a possibility but an increasing likelihood as 2G and 3G networks continue to be phased out worldwide. For those in charge of managing fleets in the haulage industry, addressing this issue promptly is not just advisable – it’s mission critical.

The phase-out of legacy networks is driven by the need to free up spectrum for more cost-efficient and higher potential 5G and LTE technologies. While newer networks promise faster, more reliable connections, the shutdown of 2G and 3G networks can significantly disrupt existing operations without adequate planning. For lorry and truck fleets, the implications are vast – not only affecting personal safety and the overall efficiency of operations.

The connectivity conundrum

As more countries announce various sunset deadlines, truck drivers may inadvertently cross into regions where older networks have already been decommissioned. This is because we have a natural tendency to focus solely on the deadlines in our home country.

The first step in addressing this challenge is to ensure you understand the network sunset plans as they are announced worldwide. It will be necessary to review the technology currently in use across the entire business and fleet. In particular, fleet managers must start with an inventory of their devices, identifying the cellular technologies in use, the cellular module vendor name and part number, their physical location and a priority rating. Then, an evaluation of the alternative connectivity options is advised.

It’s important to remember that this is not just a compliance exercise, but a significant enhancement of operational capabilities, like shifting from standard definition to high-definition in terms of data quality and communication speed.

Choosing the right alternative

The next generation of IoT products will use 4G, 5G and the latest LPWAN technologies to ensure they remain connected throughout their lifecycle.

LTE Cat-1 BIS is an established 4G/ Long-Term Evolution (LTE) service present in every network’s technology stack, across the globe. eSIM compatible and benefiting from well established roaming agreements to support global connectivity with a single SIM stock keeping unit (SKU). It offers an ideal balance of speed and power for applications that require mobile connectivity, such as real-time vehicle tracking and telematics.

LTE-M, an LPWAN technology designed to support long-battery life requirements in sensors and tracking devices, offers another potential option. Though not as widely available as Cat-1 BIS, it was designed with mobility in mind so is suitable for devices on the move and can support battery or solar-powered devices. The choice will depend on specific needs across the fleet – whether the priority is high mobility and data rate or low power consumption and broader coverage. This decision is crucial to keep fleets responsive and connected, regardless of geographic and network variability.

Strategic partnerships for a smooth transition

Successful navigation through this transition calls for more than just technological upgrades. For the best and least disruptive outcomes, it must involve strategic partnerships with experienced connectivity providers. This expertise can provide fleet managers with the intelligence to select the best-fit technology for seamless service continuity.

Standardising technology across the fleet to ensure compatibility with newer networks reduces the risk of disconnections and operational inconsistencies. Additionally, securing comprehensive roaming agreements ensures uninterrupted connectivity, critical for vehicles operating across different countries.

Training for drivers and operational staff on the new systems is a sometimes-overlooked step. A well-informed team can manage the new technology effectively, troubleshoot issues and maintain operational standards. This should be as thorough as the technical upgrade itself, ensuring that all team members are competent and confident in using the new systems.

No time for complacency

The window to act is narrowing. Fleet managers need to move quickly to avoid unnecessary scrambles and the damaging consequence of unpreparedness. The logistics of implementing new technology across potentially vast fleets should not be underestimated.

It’s true that the network shutdowns present an inconvenient challenge for the logistics sector, but we must also see the pivotal opportunity to advance fleet operations significantly and even build stronger security into systems as a result. This transition is not just about keeping pace with technological evolution – with the right approach, it can lead to a more efficient and resilient next generation of fleet operations.

similar news

Complete Connectivity Within Reach for Logistics Industry, says IoT Provider

 

How 5G Could Benefit Logistics Industry

Posted on by David Priestman

PwC predicts wide-scale development of 5G communication networks will contribute an additional 1.3 trillion USD to global GDP by 2030. With logistics and transport among the primary target sectors for 5G-enabled technology, what are the key benefits 5G could bring? Here, Kristian Torode, Director and Co-founder of business broadband provider Crystaline explores.

With speeds comparable to home broadband and low latency, 5G won’t just improve our home lives, it’s set to revolutionise industry in the same way. The logistics industry, for example, has historically struggled with labour shortages, rapid changes in demand, and poor tracking information. Fortunately, the development of 5G could provide the answer to these issues and more.

Real-time tracking

Unlike older technologies such as barcodes and RFID tags, which can experience problems during scanning, 5G-enabled tracking could be the solution to better tracking of goods. A 5G-enabled device doesn’t need to be scanned and can report its location independently and in real time, allowing for more precise journey tracking with minimal effort. In fact, it’s possible to track the product right down to the shelf it is stored on, enabling more transparent and accurate tracking throughout the supply chain.

A complete network

One of the factors previously holding back the adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has been capacity. A 4G cell tower, for example, can only hold around 2,000 devices at once. As a result, areas that are highly populated with people and devices often suffer with performance issues caused by the network being at capacity.

But a 5G tower can support far more — up to one million devices at any one time. This capacity boost means that businesses will be able to have far more devices on the network than ever before. Not only does this include their product inventory, but it can also include delivery vans and lorries, on-site forklifts, and other essential tools needed in day-to-day operations. More precise planning therefore becomes faster and easier, minimising unscheduled delays and maximising use of available equipment. Security is enhanced too, with a reduced risk of goods being lost or stolen.

A more comprehensive view

Alongside being able to track more devices, we’ll also be able to gather much more comprehensive information for each one. Where you might previously only receive location information, developments in sensor technology mean that far more parameters can be measured quickly and cost-effectively.

Temperature and humidity sensors and live video feeds are just a few possibilities. Ultimately, these sensors will allow logistics companies to guarantee the quality of their service. This is particularly relevant for transporting perishables such as medicines or chemicals, which can be easily damaged by inadequate storage conditions.

Overcoming staff shortages

Lastly, the development of 5G-enabled autonomous vehicles could be advantageous to tackling skill shortages. With too few qualified drivers available, others have had to take on the pressure. Often, this can lead to drivers working for longer hours than they should or without taking proper breaks.

A vehicle using 5G-enabled technology could drive autonomously for certain periods, such as on the motorway, giving the driver more time to rest without losing any time on the road. It’s even possible that future drivers won’t be in the cab at all. Instead, they could be driving the lorry remotely either from the office or the comfort of their own home, thanks to the low latencies offered by 5G.

It’s clear that 5G isn’t just a gimmick — it can offer serious real benefits for logistics companies of all shapes and sizes. Offering improved visibility in real-time across all levels of logistics operations, 5G could be the missing piece in achieving a truly robust and joined-up supply chain.

Greener Farm to Fork Journey

Posted on by David Priestman

5G-technologies could deliver significant carbon savings across food and drink manufacturing from farm to fork, according to new economic modelling. The modelling reinforces the environmental benefits of 5G Standalone (5G SA), particularly for key industries in that are traditionally carbon intensive like manufacturing.

Technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and tracking systems can transform the way we manage food and drink across the manufacturing supply chain – from its origins on the farm, through to factory production sites and transporting the food on UK roads to our stores. The new modelling reveals that 5G technologies could save the food and drink supply chain 37 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions between 2024 and 2035. That’s the same as removing 78,000 delivery trucks from UK roads.*

However, these efficiencies can only be achieved with the timely rollout of a 5G SA network. That is why, following completion of the proposed joint venture, Vodafone UK and Three UK have committed to investing £11 billion in the first 10 years as a combined business which will help deliver 99% of 5G Standalone population coverage by 2034. This critical infrastructure will deliver a far superior network that will allow us to build towards the UK’s digital future, faster and facilitate the innovations needed to support the UK on its Net Zero journey.

The modelling conducted by WPI Economics for Vodafone reveals the impact that these technologies can have on decarbonising the supply chain.

• In farming, 5G technologies, such as drones and sensors that monitor soil and crop conditions could improve yields and significantly reduce the food waste produced on farms. By 2035, this reduction in food waste can correspond to a total saving of carbon emissions equivalent to 6% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions in 2022.
• On the factory line, 5G-enabled manufacturing technologies like remote maintenance systems, which reduce machine downtime, plus IoT tracking systems, which reduce electricity consumption required for cooling and storing goods, could all contribute to an 11% reduction in CO2e emissions in manufacturing by 2035.
• When transporting goods by road, implementing 5G technologies, such as Vehicle-to-Everything to improve the fuel efficiency of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV), in the commercial distribution of food and drink could reduce HGV emissions by up to 54 MtCO2e. This equates to more than double the total UK HGV emissions of 2021.

Andrea Dona, Chief Network Officer, Vodafone UK, said: “We’re supporting many customers across the farm to fork supply chain to become more energy efficient through innovative technology like IoT and the Cloud. But we need the proper infrastructure to take it to the next level. 5G Standalone has the potential to transform the UK supply chain, smoothing operations for suppliers and reducing carbon emissions. Vodafone’s proposed combination with Three UK will enable us to invest £11bn over the next decade, reaching over 99% of the UK population with 5G Standalone by 2034 and helping the UK’s agricultural industry decarbonise sooner rather than later.”

A spokesperson from the Road Haulage Association (RHA), said: “The RHA is dedicated to supporting its members to help them sustainably reduce emissions in the road freight and logistics industry. We welcome Vodafone’s newly released research which finds that the implementation of 5G technologies could reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the sector by up to 44%. This year, the RHA launched the Net Zero forum which seeks to collaborate with other leading business voices for sharing best practices, technological advancements, and cutting-edge research related to sustainable transport, and we look forward to continuing to support our members by identifying new technology which will support them to decarbonise.”

In June, Vodafone launched the UK’s first Standalone network, 5G Ultra, creating one of the most technologically advanced network for customers.

Methodology

The estimated figures are based on analysis by WPI Economics using trusted data sources, including data from the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero, Department for Transport and the ONS, as well as academic literature. Overall benefits are calculated based on a Theory of Change flow, which breaks down the total effect into discrete effect channels identified through a literature review. Benefits coming from each channel are estimated and summed together (where applicable). The analysis presents emissions avoided between 2024 and 2035, assuming a staggered implementation of 5G-enabled solutions over time. The estimates are based on official government projections of CO2e emissions by industry, and the projected changes in sources of energy generation.
*Delivery trucks refers to Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs).

5G at Le Havre port – from trials to roll-out

Posted on by Keith McKinley

On his visit to Le Havre, Cédric O, France’s Secretary of State with responsibility for the Digital Transition and Communications, set out to take stock of current development projects based around new technologies. After being designated two years ago as an “Innovation Area” Le Havre, having earned a reputation as ground-breaker, is now on the point of moving from trials to commercial roll-out.

Back in 2018, as part of the Smart Port City programme, the “5G Lab” collective centred on the port and the urban community was formed with three industrial corporations – Nokia, Siemens and Électricité de France (EDF). The objective of the five partners was to identify application scenarios that could, after some experimentation, be developed across the Seine Axis ports.

In the presence of Edouard Philippe, Mayor of Le Havre and Chair of the Le Havre/Seine Urban Federation, Cédric O took this opportunity to discuss the issues with the partners and to analyse the progress made on the identified application scenarios. The core issue is of major importance: how in a competitive context to add to the attractiveness not only of the port complex but also the entire Seine Axis.

Among the first application scenarios that have been identified there is the optimisation of upkeep operations for the port’s navigational areas: the implementation of 5G would notably provide improvements and greater safety for the daily dredging campaigns in the channels and docks.

A major step forward has also been made in the city and port 5G trials. This is so because Stéphane Richard, CEO of Orange, the French telecoms operator, has announced the roll-out of 5G, which will boost the projects currently in their test phase. This announcement is encouraging for the port and its partners in their ground-breaking drive for digitisation of the local region.

“The Smart Port City programme is a shared ambitious goal to make Le Havre a port complex that stands as a benchmark for the ability to innovate. This remarkable partnership-based effort around 5G will give the port of Le Havre a core technology conducive to the invention of novel applications able to be duplicated subsequently elsewhere in the world,” explains Edouard Philippe, Mayor of Le Havre and Chair of the Le Havre/Seine Urban Federation.

In the view of Baptiste Maurand, CEO of HAROPA – Port of Le Havre, “5G offers interesting possibilities for making the port more competitive. For example, it can help us improve communications between sea and land. Just having a network-connected port navigational area will enable us to optimise certain operations that are essential to safe navigation in the port. It will also allow us to gather multiple types of data (weather, seabed conditions, and so on) for greater precision and efficiency. The primary beneficiaries will be our customers, among them the 6,000 ships that call at our port every year.”

Matthieu Bourguignon, Vice-President Europe, Nokia Enterprise adds: “Nokia is very proud to partner Le Havre city and port in their innovative drive for digitisation, notably by contributing to the 5G Lab. We will be using it to trial a range of industrial applications to demonstrate what dedicated 5G coverage can provide in a port environment. The segmentation of the network – ‘network slicing’ – made possible by 5G will allow us to allocate the data rates, latency and levels of security required for each user, thereby helping the port of Le Havre enhance its attractiveness.”

Antoine Garibal, Director of Strategy at Siemens France, expresses the view that “in the 5G Lab collective, working in close partnership with HAROPA – Port of Le Havre, Siemens provides fine-grained expertise in industrial processes and digital transformation along with tried and tested methods for identifying new applications of 5G for the port of Le Havre and its industrial complex as a whole. The trials conducted with our partners have led to the identification of new applications, demonstrating that 5G’s reliability and flexibility make it a particularly suitable data communication solution for Future Industry and the Seine Axis ports.

“This ambitious, rigorous approach based on co-construction is the right solution for the requirements of industrial companies, providing greater resilience, competitiveness and sustainability.”

Alban Verbecke, Director of Normandy Regional Action at Électricité de France explains: “The 5G Lab in Le Havre will allow us to field-test 5G’s technical capacity to manage electricity grids. 5G’s low latency is a real breakthrough in this area, especially for micro-grids.

“In addition, the analysis of application scenarios for the port/industry complex is also of interest for EDF as an industrial company. The initial applications for information system security, Industry 4.0, drones and industrial safety/security are of interest to the Group as a potential customer for these forms of technological progress.”

Subscribe

Get notified about New Episodes of our Podcast, New Magazine Issues and stay updated with our Weekly Newsletter.