The 2020 Coronavirus pandemic is quickly changing the face of the wireless industry by dramatically shifting how and where the nation’s workforce transmits business data. This surge is compounded by how much more data is used at home for education, entertainment and staying connected. As the current system operates around the clock at peak capacity, the need for emerging technologies like 5G and Private LTE networks to enter the mainstream has never been greater.
Chicago-based SAC Wireless is at the forefront of development and is actively building out infrastructure for 5G and Private LTE technologies. “The original blueprint for a 5G buildout was going to focus on small cell installation, but that can come with a high price tag and a lengthy timeline,” said Scott Pomykalski, Chief Development Officer for SAC. “The global pandemic is shortening timelines while increasing need – as an organization it is essential that we think differently — being innovative for faster solutions is top of mind with all of us,” continued Pomykalski. “We’re rethinking the small cell strategy to shift the focus from coverage to capacity. To get there, we’ll need to engineer new ways of deployment and installation to maximize our customer’s current network.”
Beyond 5G, more and more local governments, utilities, and businesses are placing orders for Private LTE networks. This technology offers greater data security, adding more protections from ransomware that can cripple a business or a city in an instant. SAC works in partnership with customers to custom build technology that meets demanding workflow requirements, while also overcoming terrestrial coverage challenges including remote locations, mountains, and signal blocking architecture.
Private LTE technology can also keep first-responders in touch when communications are critical. “We’re building out a new system for one of the largest utility companies in the country to help support fire mitigation,” Pomykalski said. “Every second first responders don’t respond to a fire, they lose another acre. Our Private LTE is custom built to suit the unique terrain and communications challenges they face on the ground; we’re honored to be a part of such a meaningful project.”
“Imagine what would have happened if this pandemic happened a decade ago. Thanks to the existing networks, we were able to move a majority of office jobs to ‘work from home’ while keeping kids entertained and educated as the nation’s schools came to an abrupt close. Most importantly, first responders remain connected to react quickly to emergencies. Society will always face local, regional and global challenges, but as new technologies like 5G and Private LTE gain acceptance, so too will our ability to stay healthy, productive and connected.”
Reader Interactions