5G NR Modules Target Industrial and Rail Connectivity

Telit Cinterion has launched its FE990D50 and FE990D60 series, a new generation of 5G NR sub-6 modules designed for industrial and enterprise applications. Built on Qualcomm Dragonwing platforms compliant with 3GPP Release 18, the modules support high-throughput connectivity, edge processing, and advanced networking features across multiple sectors.

3GPP Release 18 and High-Performance Connectivity
The modules are designed to meet increasing demands for bandwidth and reliability in industrial IoT and enterprise networking. Support for 5G NR stand-alone (SA) architecture, combined with eight receive (8RX) antennas, enhances signal reception and throughput in challenging RF environments.

Carrier aggregation capabilities improve both downlink and uplink performance, while LTE Category 20 ensures backward compatibility in hybrid network deployments. These features enable consistent connectivity in applications where uninterrupted data transmission is critical.

Edge Intelligence and System Integration
The FE990D50 and FE990D60 integrate a quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 processor operating at 2.2 GHz, enabling edge computing capabilities directly on the module. This supports local data processing, application hosting, and reduced latency in distributed systems.

Compatibility with Linux 6.6 and OpenWRT 24.10 allows developers to implement custom firmware and network functions, supporting flexible deployment in enterprise gateways, networking infrastructure, and industrial control systems.

Additional hardware features include support for multiple Wi-Fi transceivers, dual Ethernet interfaces, and high-precision GNSS with L1 and L5 bands, enabling accurate positioning in connected systems.

Industrial Design for Harsh Environments
The modules are engineered for industrial-grade reliability, with an operating temperature range from −40°C to +85°C. This makes them suitable for deployment in demanding environments such as manufacturing facilities, outdoor infrastructure, and mission-critical systems.

A future-proof PCB design supports scalability and simplifies migration to upcoming feature enhancements, extending the lifecycle of deployed devices within a digital supply chain.

Expanding 5G into Railway Communication Systems
A dedicated variant, the FE990D60-FR, supports Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) bands n100 and n101 alongside public 5G frequencies. This enables integration into next-generation railway communication networks, which are evolving to replace legacy systems with broadband, IP-based infrastructure.

FRMCS is designed to support applications such as train control, real-time monitoring, and passenger connectivity. The module’s capabilities position it for use in railway digitalization initiatives across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Application Scope Across Industrial and Enterprise Systems
The module series is designed for a range of use cases, including 5G customer premises equipment, professional video transmission, enterprise gateways, and industrial automation systems. These applications require a combination of high data rates, low latency, and reliable connectivity.

By combining advanced radio performance, edge computing capabilities, and support for emerging standards, the FE990D50 and FE990D60 modules reflect ongoing developments in the automotive data ecosystem and industrial IoT infrastructure, where connectivity and processing are increasingly integrated at the device level.

Edited by Romila DSilva, Induportals editor, with AI assistance.