Semtech Corporation has introduced the FX86E, a new 5G RedCap modem specifically designed to support industrial IoT applications. The solution enables plug-and-play connectivity across 5G RedCap, 4G/LTE, and both public and private wireless networks. As organizations continue expanding connected device ecosystems, the FX86E aims to simplify connectivity deployment while reducing upfront integration costs. By offering pre-certified hardware, Semtech helps industrial IoT manufacturers and system integrators deploy connected solutions faster and with significantly less engineering complexity.
Unlike traditional embedded cellular modules, the FX86E modem is built to eliminate the lengthy certification cycles and integration challenges often associated with IoT connectivity. Instead, organizations can connect the modem directly to existing equipment through its Ethernet interface and instantly establish either 4G or 5G RedCap connections. Consequently, businesses can bypass months of development work and quickly bring connected solutions to market.
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The modem also addresses the growing transition from LTE to next-generation 5G connectivity. Many industrial systems currently rely on LTE networks, yet the industry is steadily shifting toward 5G infrastructure. Therefore, Semtech designed the FX86E to operate seamlessly across both environments. This dual-network capability ensures long-term product viability while enabling organizations to gradually migrate toward 5G RedCap networks as they become more widely available.
“Many industrial IoT applications don’t need complex connectivity platforms they need reliable connectivity, and they need it fast,” said Larry Zibrik, vice president of cellular modules at Semtech. “The FX86E delivers exactly that: 5G RedCap throughput and longevity in a plug-and-play modem that reduces the integration complexity and certification delays. OEMs can focus on their applications, not connectivity infrastructure.”
The FX86E supports a wide range of industrial use cases where rapid deployment and reliable connectivity are critical. These include remote monitoring of oil pipelines, telemetry for production machinery, environmental and agricultural monitoring systems, and network connectivity for IP cameras and access control systems. Because the modem enables instant connectivity, organizations can deploy IoT systems more efficiently while maintaining consistent data communication across distributed operations.
Another key advantage of the FX86E is its compatibility with both public and private wireless networks. In addition to standard cellular connectivity, the modem supports private spectrum options such as CBRS and Anterix B106 spectrum. This flexibility allows enterprises to implement dedicated wireless infrastructure tailored to their operational and security requirements.
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“Utilities and other critical industries are increasingly turning to private wireless networks to address their broader operations with dedicated spectrum and enhanced control,” said Steve Ryan, vice president, ecosystem and partnerships at Anterix. “The FX86E’s support for Anterix 900 MHz spectrum combined with its plug-and-play design makes it easier for utilities and industrial operators to deploy reliable private network solutions that meet their specific operational and security requirements.”
Semtech also engineered the FX86E to withstand demanding industrial environments. The modem meets MIL-STD-810H military durability standards and features IP30-rated protection, ensuring reliable performance in harsh conditions. Additionally, it supports Class 1, Division 2 (C1D2) certification requirements and operates across temperature ranges from -30°C to +75°C, making it suitable for deployment in factories, energy infrastructure, and outdoor industrial systems.
Security remains another critical component of the device’s design. The FX86E includes secure boot protection and supports firmware-over-the-air (FOTA) updates through secure HTTPS, allowing organizations to maintain device security and deploy updates throughout the lifecycle of connected systems.
With more than three decades of wireless connectivity expertise, Semtech designed the FX86E in North America and is currently completing certification with major global carriers. Industry partners believe the modem will play an important role in simplifying next-generation IoT connectivity.
“By integrating 5G RedCap technology into a rugged, simplified platform, the FX86E solves a vital connectivity challenge for today’s industrial IoT applications,” remarked Anthony Besett, vice president of the OEM embedded solutions team at GetWireless. “Our partnership with Semtech allows us to provide a high-performance, future-ready solution that balances the power of 5G with the practical needs of the field and at a cost that enables adoption now. We are effectively removing the complexity of the deployment phase, allowing OEMs to scale their IoT operations with unprecedented speed and efficiency while gaining the security and longevity benefits of 5G.”
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