Curious about how our 5G NTN NB-IoT eNodeB performs? We sat down with our Product Manager, Morten Thomsen, to explore how Gatehouse Satcom helps clients succeed with 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) NB-IoT services in space.
Expanding 5G NB-IoT NTN services into space
When discussing what a company aiming to build a 5G NTN NB-IoT satellite service can gain by partnering with Gatehouse Satcom, Morten highlights our comprehensive approach. Gatehouse Satcom supports customers from the earliest planning phases, assessing the feasibility and advantages of 5G NB-IoT NTN all the way through to a fully operational service. As Morten explains, “We can provide analysis and simulations to validate the value of 5G NTN services, followed by a test and demo system that allows you to experience the capabilities in your own lab or satellite constellation. Finally, we offer a dedicated eNodeB designed specifically for integration into a satellite-based 5G service.”
Why a purpose-built eNodeB matters
Morten also emphasizes what sets Gatehouse Satcom’s eNodeB apart. Instead of adapting a terrestrial solution for space, our eNodeB is purpose-built for NTN, ensuring optimal performance from the outset. “Developed from scratch to support 5G NB-IoT NTN,” he notes, “it runs on a commercial off-the-shelf software-defined radio platform and can be deployed either as a full payload or as a modular component.” This flexibility enables compatibility with all orbits, including LEO, MEO, and GEO, and allows operation in both regenerative and transparent modes.
Ensuring compatibility with core networks and chipsets
Compatibility across the ecosystem is another critical question. Morten confirms that our 5G NB-IoT NTN eNodeB has been successfully verified in a lab environment with major suppliers of 5G NTN chipsets and core networks. This ensures smooth integration and provides a reliable path to market for any satellite IoT service.
Alignment with 3GPP standards for greater flexibility
Future-proofing is also a priority. Morten points out that our 5G NB-IoT NTN eNodeB is fully compliant with 3GPP standards, which have included NTN specifications since Release 17. This compliance allows a wide range of commercially available NB-IoT devices to operate seamlessly across both terrestrial and satellite networks, delivering enhanced flexibility for end users.
Key Takeaways
- Gatehouse Satcom supports you from initial feasibility studies through to a fully operational 5G NTN NB-IoT satellite service.
- Our eNodeB is designed specifically for space, offering optimal performance and flexible orbit coverage.
- Compatibility with leading core networks and chipsets ensures streamlined deployment.
- Adherence to 3GPP standards (Release 17 and beyond) guarantees a future-proof solution.
Want to know more about 5G NTN NB-IoT?
See our popular webinars titled:
Exploring use cases of 5G NB-IoT NTN: Push to talk, two-way messaging and firmware update
How can you obtain 5G NTN connectivity for your current GEO system?
