5G for Internet of Things and Low-Power Applications
5G RedCap – 5G Reduced Capability, is a variant of 5G technology that was introduced as part of the 3GPP Release 17 specifications in 2022, which aimed to expand the reach of 5G technology into a wider range of IoT and low-power applications. The primary target applications for 5G RedCap include low-power IoT devices, sensors, wearables, and other battery-powered devices that do not require the highest 5G performance but can benefit from the improved power efficiency and reduced cost.
The key aspects of 5G RedCap are:
Reduced Complexity
5G RedCap is designed to have a simpler and more streamlined architecture compared to the full-fledged 5G New Radio (NR) specification. This focuses on essential functionalities, removing unnecessary features to minimise device complexity. This is achieved through techniques like reduced OFDM numerology, simplified channel coding, and a streamlined protocol stack. This reduced complexity helps lower the cost, power consumption, and size of 5G RedCap devices, making them more suitable for IoT and low-power applications.
Lower Performance Targets
5G RedCap targets lower maximum data rates, typically up to 150 Mbps for downlink and 50 Mbps for uplink. – The reduced throughput requirements are suitable for IoT devices that do not need the highest 5G speeds. This is a significant reduction compared to the multi-gigabit speeds of the full 5G NR specification. However, these speeds are still definitely higher than what 4G LTE CAT-1/CAT-M can provide, making 5G RedCap a viable option for many IoT and low-power use cases.
Comparison of 5G, 5G RedCap, LTE CAT-1 & LTE CAT-M
Enhanced Power Efficiency
5G RedCap devices are optimised for improved power efficiency, with features like extended discontinuous reception (eDRX) and power-saving mode. eDRX allows devices to enter longer sleep cycles, reducing their overall power consumption and extending battery life. This enables longer battery life for IoT devices that need to operate on limited power sources.
Narrowband Operation
5G RedCap utilises narrowband operation, where devices can operate on smaller bandwidth allocations. This narrowband approach reduces the complexity and power requirements of the radio frequency (RF) front-end, as well as the digital signal processing (DSP) components.
Reduced Feature Set
5G RedCap devices have a reduced feature set compared to the full 5G NR specification, focusing on the essential capabilities required for IoT and low-power applications. This includes simplified mobility management, reduced beam management, and fewer MIMO layers, among other optimisation techniques. The reduced feature set helps optimise device complexity, cost, and power consumption, making 5G RedCap more applicable for a wider range of IoT and low-power applications.
5G RedCap enable a more diverse ecosystem of connected devices. This variant of 5G is expected to play a significant role in the continued growth and adoption of the IoT.
