Transform your business with a private 5G network from LMT. Unprecedented reliability, speed, and security tailored to your needs.
Challenge
The Baltic Container Terminal (BCT), located in the Riga Freeport area, is one of the leading container handling terminals in the Baltic region. A typical day at the terminal involves numerous simultaneous operations that require meticulous planning and constant communication. To ensure a seamless workflow, the terminal uses the NAVI solution, a terminal operating system that coordinates container loading and unloading sequences.
Uninterrupted data transmission is crucial when using NAVI. Historically, BCT’s infrastructure relied on 22 access points mounted on 27-meter-high masts with fiber optic and electrical connections. An audit of the existing network uncovered critical issues, including unstable WiFi coverage, data connectivity interruptions, limited data speeds, a high maintenance complexity of the WiFi network, and more. These issues were causing operational disruptions, making it clear there was an immediate need for an effective solution.
Implementing a private 5G network at BCT
To address the BCT challenges, LMT proposed a private 5G network solution. The setup of the solution consists of a private 5G Core, two outdoor antennas, routers, 5G SA compatible tablets, and smartphones with dedicated SIM cards operating within the private network.
The 5G network was integrated with BCT’s existing closed network, ensuring all data transmission remained internal. A push-to-talk (PTT) solution was introduced, enabling voice communication, image and video sharing.
Measurements of coverage and data transmission parameters were taken before and after implementation. The measurements evaluated the existing WiFi network and the newly installed private 5G network.
Comparison: WiFi vs private 5G network
The measurement results indicated that the WiFi technology had insufficient signal strength in certain areas. The private 5G network, however, maintained sufficient signal strength throughout the entire terminal area.
Image: Determined signal strengths (RSSI for WiFi and RSRP for 5G) using a Rohde & Schwarz network scanner
The download measurement data revealed a stark contrast—the existing WiFi download speed was significantly lower. In several terminal zones, the WiFi network couldn’t meet BCT’s basic needs, with download speeds close to 0 Mbps. The WiFi network had been built to cover the expansive territory, and as such, in some places WiFi speed had to be sacrificed. This hindered some activities, as the existing network couldn’t ensure uninterrupted connectivity.
In contrast, the private 5G network delivered sufficient download speeds throughout the terminal area, meeting not only core business needs but also large-volume data transmission requirements. It achieved low latency and download speeds of up to 200 Mbps.
Other results included:
- Excellent coverage with only two antennas
- The PTT functionality meets performance requirements
- Well-performing VPN tunnels enabled
- 100 Mbps average speed, no data interruptions, for all equipment
- Network integration with the local LAN
- Enhanced security as only authorized SIMs access the network
- Much easier network management
Your own private 5G network by LMT
Deploying a private 5G network across BCT’s expansive site delivered comprehensive coverage, faster data speeds, and significant cost savings. However, port terminals are just one of the many use cases that can benefit from implementing a private 5G network. Sectors like manufacturing, warehousing and logistics, transportation, healthcare, agriculture, and more require reliable, high-bandwidth, low-latency connectivity, which a private 5G network can deliver. LMT is ready to set it up for you.
If you’re ready to reach new heights in your business operations using cutting-edge solutions that offer next-level efficiency and security, reach out to LMT. We’re ready to discuss your private 5G network whenever you are.