The Port of Tyne, one of the United Kingdom’s largest and most important ports, has launched 4G and 5G private network connectivity, bringing its vision of becoming a leading smart port that is a model of safety, efficiency and sustainability.
The Port has deployed a private network with coverage across the entire estate in collaboration with partners BT and Ericsson, making it the UK’s first site-wide deployment of 4G and 5G standalone connectivity for smart port applications. The infrastructure is established upon an Ericsson Private 5G solution and BT spectrum, whereby both 4G and 5G will operate concurrently to support legacy devices while also powering new 5G applications in the port’s future transformation.
The first set of live use cases will start in November, including video and sensors installed at each gate on the site to use automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) in order to securely manage and monitor vehicle access, as well as 5G-enabled cameras with a 360-degree view at the quayside combined with AI-driven software to provide automated container inspection and identification.
The port is positioning itself to integrate a series of future 5G applications and advanced technologies to support new customer requirements and enable the transition to a green smart port by deploying a private 5G wireless network.
The Port of Tyne also has a goal of becoming a leader in 5G maritime innovation and providing an industry eco-system testbed to aid in the development of a future blueprint of 5G-enabled smart applications to automate manual tasks, improve decision-making and reduce CO2 emissions.
Chief Executive Officer at Port of Tyne, Matthew Beeton, said, “I believe that 5G is going to play a crucial role in helping Port of Tyne achieve our goals. We can streamline our operations, improve safety and sustainability, and drive growth and innovation throughout the entire maritime industry and beyond. With seamless connectivity, we can link shipping companies, logistics providers and regulatory bodies from around the world, enabling us to work together more effectively to address global challenges like climate change and cybersecurity threats.”
