CommScope announced today that it has collaborated with Microsoft to create a converged private wireless network solution.
CommScope was one of the original Spectrum Access System (SAS) administrators. But in April, it announced it was getting out of that Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) related business.
Nevertheless, it said it would continue operating and managing the Environmental Sensing Capability (ESC) network in created in conjunction with Google. And it also said it would continue to offer intelligent wireless solutions and services that support the 3.5 GHz CBRS frequency band, such as OneCell small cells and Ruckus access points.
Now, CommScope is working with Microsoft’s Azure private MEC, combining that with CommScope’s CBRS access points. It’s already successfully deployed the combined solution in its own manufacturing innovation center in Shakopee, Minnesota.
Through this cloud-connected, private wireless network, CommScope says it is improving both the operational efficiency and manufacturing agility of its facilities.This includes immersive technology training, aggregated assembly line data and real-time remote assistance to improve production ramp times and worker capabilities.
CommScope also uses its low-latency private wireless network to bring wireless mobility to testing equipment on the production line. As an example, specialized microscopes are now mobilized so fiber-optic-quality testing can be done anywhere in real time as opposed to pulling products off the line to connect with wired testing equipment.
Upendra Pingle, SVP of Intelligent Cellular Networks at CommScope, said, “We have deployed Microsoft’s private MEC platform in combination with CBRS access points in our own manufacturing innovation center to improve operational efficiencies. Together, we are showcasing the immediate, real-world advantages of private networking in industrial manufacturing as our combined solution paves the way for the evolution of private wireless networks and manufacturing.”
CommScope did not immediately respond to a question as to which SAS provider it’s using in its collaboration with Microsoft.