On February 22nd, Quectel, a leading global provider of IoT overall solutions, announced the upcoming launch of the Rx255G series 5G RedCap modules. This series of modules not only features key functions of 5G NR such as high reliability, low latency, and network slicing but also boasts advantages like compact design and ultra-low power consumption. It achieves a fine balance between cost, size, and performance, providing added momentum to the accelerated popularization of lightweight 5G.
RedCap, also known as Reduced Capability, is a lightweight technology introduced by 3GPP in the 5G Release 17 phase, representing a new technical standard protocol. This technology integrates 5G's low latency, high reliability, and network slicing features into a more cost-competitive lightweight architecture. For applications requiring 5G features but not necessarily high data rates and large bandwidth, RedCap technology offers an economical and efficient solution.
Low Power Consumption, High Performance, and Competitive Cost Highlights
The MediaTek T300 series 5G RedCap platform embedded in the Rx255G series modules features MediaTek's 5G RedCap UltraSave functionality, reducing power consumption by 60% compared to existing 4G IoT modules. Compared to 5G Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) modems, power consumption is reduced by 70%. Additionally, when enabling R17 power-saving features, an extra 10% power saving is achieved.
The Rx255G series supports 5G Standalone (SA) and LTE Cat 4 dual-mode. It supports 20MHz bandwidth, 256QAM/64QAM modulation, with maximum downlink and uplink speeds reaching 220 Mbps and 121 Mbps respectively. Additionally, this series of modules supports GNSS positioning and other functions.
Norbert Muhrer, President and Chief Sales Officer of Quectel, stated: "We are pleased to once again bring new 5G RedCap module products to the global market. For IoT applications, the Rx255G series RedCap modules not only realize the key functions of 5G NR but also avoid high power consumption and costs, achieving a fine balance in all aspects and providing better support for a wide range of scenarios that require ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) and network slicing."
Evan Su, General Manager of MediaTek's Wireless Communication Business Unit, said: "The T300 series is the world's first 6nm RF SoC single-chip solution that supports RedCap. RedCap technology is a key enabler for driving the popularization of 5G, empowering our customers with optimized components and enabling various applications to access 5G networks at more competitive costs."
Compatible Design, Widespread Applications
In terms of external design, the Rx255G series offers multiple packaging options, including LGA, M.2, and Mini PCIe, providing various interfaces including USB 2.0 and PCIe 1.0. Additionally, this series of modules is compatible with Quectel's Cat 4 modules EG2x and EC2x series, offering customers a more expedited solution for migrating from Cat 4 to 5G.
The Rx255G series is highly suitable for applications such as smart grids, video networking, connected vehicles, POS terminals, industrial automation, and FWA (Fixed Wireless Access).
The Quectel 5G modules can be used together with a variety of Quectel antenna products, allowing end customers to purchase antennas tailored to their actual application scenarios, thus shortening the time to market for products.
During the Mobile World Congress MWC 2024, Fibocom released the RedCap module FM330 series based on the MediaTek T300 platform, accelerating the prosperity of 5G-A. The Fibocom FM330 series and its solutions adopt the globally advanced RedCap scheme to meet the high-energy efficiency requirements of mobile broadband and industrial interconnection.
The Fibocom FM330 series adopts the world's first 6nm process and integrated RF single-chip RedCap solution (RFSOC) MediaTek T300 development, and simultaneously launches multi-scenario solutions. The MediaTek T300 integrates a single-core Arm Cortex-A35 CPU in a compact area, further reducing power consumption and streamlining size.
The new Fibocom 5G module complies with the 3GPP R17 evolution standard and has excellent energy efficiency, enhanced network coverage, and low latency characteristics. In the Sub-6GHz frequency band, the maximum transmission bandwidth of the FM330 series module is reduced to 20MHz, and the transmit and receive antennas are trimmed to 1T2R, supporting more global 5G mid-low frequency bands including n79. Thanks to the maximum modulation capability of uplink and downlink 256QAM, the downlink throughput of the FM330 series reaches up to 227Mbps, and the uplink throughput reaches 122Mbps. The FM330 series adopts the M.2 packaging method of 30mm*42mm, compatible with the Fibocom LTE Cat.6 module FM101 series, facilitating the smooth iteration of existing 4G terminals to 5G.
During the conference, Fibocom demonstrated the RedCap Dongle solution based on the FM330 series, flexibly meeting the mobile broadband application needs of global customers. The plug-and-play FM330 series RedCap Dongle solution is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, Android, etc., enabling users to enjoy 5G networks anytime, anywhere. The FM330 series RedCap Dongle solution is connected to the host computer through a standard USB interface, suitable for industrial equipment such as desktops, laptops, tablets, fixed-mobile convergence terminals, drones, industrial control computers, etc., with networking needs.
The 5G RedCap module FM330 series and solutions will further accelerate the evolution of terminals such as Dongle, CPE, PC, and IPC to 5G-A, promote 5G achieving ten-gigabit downstream, gigabit upstream, intrinsic intelligence, and advance the integration innovation of 5G with perception, AI, computing power, and new generation information technology.
Tao Xi, Vice President of Fibocom MBB Business Unit, said: RedCap is a key technology driving the commercialization of 5G, helping FWA applications extend to FWA-Lite entry-level, accelerating the deep penetration of 5G into households, enterprises, and outdoor third spaces. Fibocom, in collaboration with MediaTek, globally launched the module FM330 series and solutions based on the T300 platform, helping operators enter the new era of 5G-A, and providing the market with one-stop, diversified, and high-performance RedCap Dongle, Hybrid CPE, and other solutions. In the future, Fibocom will continue to maintain close cooperation with MediaTek, break through the boundaries of 5G smart interconnection applications, and achieve long-term win-win cooperation between the two parties.
SIMCOM announced the release of the 5G modules SIM8270, SIM8390, SIM8230, and A8230 series, LTE-A module A7908, smart module SIM9650L, and Wi-Fi module W87 at the MWC event. These products cater to different customer demands in terms of cost, speed, and application scenarios in both domestic and international markets. It heralds a new era of ubiquitous connectivity in the 5G era.
5G Connects All
The next-generation 5G module SIMCOM SIM8270 supports both 5G non-standalone (NSA) and standalone (SA) networking modes, while SIMCOM SIM8390 supports 5G NSA, SA, and mmWave modes. Both modules adopt LGA packaging, integrate GNSS positioning functions, and maintain compatibility with the AT commands of the SIMCOM SIM8260 series, facilitating rapid iteration of terminal products for customers and reducing development costs.
Moreover, the SIMCOM 5G modules SIM8270 and SIM8390 can be combined with the SIMCOM Wi-Fi module W87 to form various 5G+Wi-Fi 7 solutions.
SIMCOM SIM8230 is a 5G R17 SA multi-band RedCap module, packaged in LGA+LCC with compact dimensions. It integrates GNSS positioning functionality and is compatible with the AT commands of the SIM8260 series. Equipped with abundant functional interfaces, it provides great convenience for peripheral expansion while boasting advantages such as lightweight, low power consumption, small size, and high cost-effectiveness. It also supports various regional versions for Asia, North America, Europe, South America, etc., catering to the diverse needs of customers worldwide.
The new generation 5G R17 modules introduced by SIMCOM at this time exhibit superior performance in data transmission rate, power consumption, latency, and reliability, making them suitable for a wide range of terminal devices including 5G CPEs, wearable devices, industrial routers, high-definition video streaming boxes, AR/VR devices, drones, remote control, and robots.
At the exhibition, SIMCOM will also release a cost-effective 5G module A8230, providing a more economical solution for 5G+AIoT applications in terms of cost.
LTE-A Surfing Unlimited New Experience
LTE-A complements 5G, jointly providing mature and stable communication technology support for high-speed markets. SIMCOM A7908 is a highly integrated LTE Cat.6 module targeting the high-end application market for high-speed services. It features multi-mode, wide-band broadband, built-in DDR, dual PCIe, and Ethernet ports supporting 100M/1G, enabling single-chip soft routing functionality. It can be widely used in terminal devices such as CPEs, MiFi, mobile hotspots, security monitoring, and detection alarms.
AI Innovation Creates New Possibilities for the Future
SIMCOM SIM9650L is a high-computing power smart module with the Android 14 operating system, equipped with a Qualcomm 8-core 64-bit ARM V8 processor, Kyro 6xx CPU. Compared to previous generations of 4G smart modules, the SIM9650L series integrates AI processors Dual HVX and Hexagon Tensor Accelerator, with computing power exceeding 14Tops, and built-in Adreno™ VPU 633, supporting up to 4K 30 video encoding or 4K 60 video decoding.
It also supports multiple high-definition cameras, high-definition touch screens, and has powerful high-speed data transmission and multimedia processing capabilities, enabling customers to quickly develop products and applications related to operating systems and high performance advantages of smart modules, multimedia, wireless communication, etc.
The SIM9650L series integrates GPS high-precision positioning, BT5.2 short-distance communication, 2x2 MIMO, and Wi-Fi6E. It can be widely used in smart POS cash registers, logistics terminals, VR/AR devices, smart robots, vehicle-mounted devices, smart cabins, video surveillance, security monitoring, smart information collection devices, industrial-grade PDAs, and smart handheld terminals.
SIMCOM Looks to the Future New Journey
Looking forward to the future world of 5G+AI, SIMCOM continues to launch high-speed 5G, LTE-A modules, and high-computing power smart modules, as well as full-format module product lines such as 4G, LPWA, GNSS, focusing on the extensive application market of 5G+AIoT, bringing high-quality products to various fields such as homes, enterprises, industries, agriculture, and urban construction. In the future, SIMCOM will continue to work with partners to create more high-quality module products, providing more accurate products and services to customers at home and abroad.
Upgrade from the predecessor ZTE MC8020, ZTE presented a new 5G WiFi Router. The model is ZTE MC888S, belonging to the MC888 series. ZTE MC888S is a 5G LTE wireless router designed for home and small office use.
Design and Appearance
At first glance, the ZTE MC888S looks like a standing book and it’s very cool. The ZTE 5G WiFi Router measures 186*146*41mm. The body is made of robust plastic, with a glossy white finish that gives it a clean and elegant look. There are four Ethernet ports with a power adapter interface, on the other side, there are three LED indicators for WiFi, 5G Signal and Power. At the bottom, we can see a stick telling the model number, IMEI & S/N number, Approvals, and the manufacturer ZTE.
Connectivity and Features
The ZTE MC888S offers high-speed connectivity, supporting up to 3.8Gbps download speeds. It comes with a built-in Wi-Fi access point that supports up to 128 connected devices simultaneously. The device also features four Ethernet ports that allow wired connectivity. Moreover, the device supports VPN, NAT/NAPT, and DMZ protocols.
Setup and Installation
Setting up the ZTE MC888S is effortless and straightforward. There’s no need to install any software or drivers on the devices connecting to the router. Users can access the configuration page via a web browser on their mobile device or computer. The device’s interface is user-friendly, and it’s easy to configure and modify settings.
Performance and Security
In terms of performance, the ZTE MC888S offers stable and reliable connectivity. The device supports several security protocols, including WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK, WPA/WPA2, and WEP. Additionally, the device supports MAC address filtering, and users can define which devices can connect to the Wi-Fi network.
Conclusion
The ZTE MC888S is an excellent 5G wireless router for small offices and homes that offer reliable and stable connectivity. The device looks smart, and it comes with all the features you’d expect from a standard wireless router. Moreover, with its user-friendly interface, it’s easy to set up and configure the device. Overall, the ZTE MC888S is a highly recommended wireless router for those in need of a reliable and straightforward connectivity solution.
ZTE MC888 is a new ZTE’s fourth-generation 5G Indoor Router powered by the new generation Qualcomm Snapdragon X62 chipset. With the new feature of WiFi 6, it can reach peak data rates up to 3600 Mbps. Thanks to the new 5G technology, you can enjoy numerous advantages when surfing the Internet. And this ZTE MC888 5G router also brings considerable added value in the professional environment. For example, downloads are completed in record time and video conferences can be carried out without annoying interruptions or loss of quality. Multitasking on several mobile devices at the same time is also no problem thanks to the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology.
Below are the highlight features of the ZTE MC888 5G CPE:
Qualcomm Snapdragon X62
The ZTE MC888 5G router features the new generation of Qualcomm Snapdragon X62 Chip. This platform with advanced 4nm technology supports the 3GPP Release 16 standard. The processor’s processing power has been upgraded and speed has been significantly improved, opening a new 5g era.
5G router NSA and SA Dual mode
The ZTE 5G WiFi6 router supports both NSA and SA Dual mode 5G networks with high speed, wide coverage and key global frequency bands.
Carrier aggregation and ENDC technology.
The ZTE MC888 supports advanced 5G NR technology for network carrier aggregation, which significantly improves spectrum utilization. This provides higher user data rate, less latency, higher capacity, more reliable network service and better performance. At the same time, low-frequency ENDC technology is supported to improve coverage and signals are wider and farther in suburban, rural and remote areas. MC888 truly realizes the benefits of wide coverage and high speed of 5G signals, and users can enjoy a high-speed Internet experience anytime, anywhere. Also, the Indoor 5G router supports 4G CAT.16 1.0 Gbps LTE speed.
WiFi 6 speeds and support for 64 users
The 5G WiFi6 router uses the WiFi 6 standard with a peak speed of 3600 Mbps! With the unique 4K QAM modulation technology, WiFi throughput is significantly improved. Also, this 5G modem router can Support up to 64 users for simultaneous access to the Internet. In addition, the router is Equipped with 2x GB network ports. As a result, no more worries about the slow and overloaded network but optimal enjoyment of a very fast Internet experience.
ZTE MC888 Antenna
Due to a unique antenna design, the antenna gain of this 5G modem router is up to 10 dbi, increasing its ability to penetrate walls and windows. This ensures the delivery of a stronger signal and wider coverage. compared to ordinary products, the speed is increased by 15% and 5G signals can be well received everywhere.
5G and wired broadband dual network
The 5G Internet router supports both wireless and wired broadband Internet access, which can be freely chosen. When one mode fails, it can be seamlessly switched to the other to ensure network stability.
Below are the Specifications of ZTE MC888 5G WiFi Router: