n TECHNOLOGY SIEMENS HAS UPGRADED ITS industrial private 5G infrastructure technology, allowing manufacturers to provide larger areas with enhanced connectivity. The expanded version of the technology, first launched in 2023, now supports up to 24 radio devices, each capable of covering around 5,000m . Siemens is also introducing a compact, entry-level, IP20-protected 5G router for use in cabinets, as part of its Xcelerator portfolio. The Scalance MUB852-1 router matches the footprint of the Simatic ET200 I/O and integrates with Siemens’Totally Integrated Automation (TIA) platform. “Our enhanced private 5G infrastructure solution represents another milestone in connected production,” says Axel Lorenz, CEO of Process Automation at Siemens. “By enabling coverage of larger industrial areas while maintaining the same reliable connectivity, we’re meeting the growing demands of modern manufacturing environments.” Siemens says that reliable wireless connectivity in factory environments is facing increasing challenges. The traditional unlicensed Wi-Fi spectrum can become overloaded in crowded settings, leading to communications outages and possible production shutdowns. The private 5G infrastructure addresses these issues by providing a dedicated network for missioncritical applications. Private 5G networks also create the flexible communications infrastructure needed to integrate smart sensors and edge devices, enabling datadriven decisions on the shopfloor through AI applications. Siemens has developed the 5G system for industrial applications. A simple configuration process via a Web interface involves around 20 variables. A dashboard provides an overview of the network status and is accessible even to non-IT users. The private 5G system allows companies to operate their networks independently without relying on third-party providers, thus enhancing cybersecurity and data privacy. Users can modify their networks to meet changing demands, and can perform rapid troubleshooting. “The industrial world is moving away from the ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to wireless connectivity,” says Lorenz. “With our private industrial 5G infrastructure, we're giving manufacturers the tools to design their digital backbone exactly the way they need to, whether they're running a single production line or an entire smart factory complex.” The updated private 5G system is available now in Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Denmark, Austria and Brazil. There are plans to expand it to other countries during 2025. www.siemens.com Industrial 5G infrastructure expands to cover larger areas Siemens’ private industrial 5G infrastructure now supports up to 24 radio devices
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