Your opinion counts!
Share your views on 5G and Mobile Private Network use cases at Tata Steel Port Talbot
We hope it inspired you to start thinking about new possibilities ahead of the two Vodafone 4G and 5G masts going live at Port Talbot in summer 2025.
In fact, we really want to hear your ideas and suggestions on what these new installations can deliver. That way, we can make sure they’re a perfect fit with Tata Steel’s needs and ambitions.
Here’s a quick recap of the key technologies, and how you can share your thoughts, suggestions and ideas.
What are 4G and 5G and how are they used?
4G and 5G are the two most recent generations of the cellular network spectrum. 5G is all about high speed and bandwidth, which means it can support thousands of simultaneous super-fast mobile connections. 4G frequencies can travel further than 5G, and penetrate walls, so they’re better for covering large areas. These differences mean providing the best coverage for a site like Port Talbot involves a blend of 4G and 5G.
5G and its benefits for business mobility
5G is ultra-reliable and ultra-low latency so it’s ideal for connecting mission-critical applications and industrial application controls without installing fixed networking infrastructure. 5G’s super-high throughput supports use cases like UHD video and virtual/augmented reality, which are perfect for realistic training simulations and real-time production monitoring. While 5G Ultra’s deep indoor coverage and low energy consumption are great for IoT use cases like asset tracking and smart buildings.
At Port Talbot, 5G can provide the secure digital foundation that’s needed for site modernisation, business and operational transformation, and cost optimisation.
What are Mobile Private Networks and how do they work?
MPNs connect to the 5G network via local access points and are quick to set up as needed. They are more secure, scalable and resilient than WiFi. This makes them ideal for large sites like Port Talbot that have a mix of indoor and outdoor operations, and for connecting mission-critical applications and operational technologies where capturing data in near-real time is essential.
Potential future enhancements with MPN
Because MPNs offer ultra-reliable, high-performance wireless networks, and fast local processing, they are opening up a number of industrial use cases. To take just a few examples:
Enhancing health and safety via geo-fenced exclusion zones and personnel warning alerts
Maintaining environmental compliance with sensors to monitor emissions in real time
Optimising supply chains using telemetrics for real-time inventory and stock monitoring
Reducing energy costs in digital buildings and workplaces, and smart warehouses
your ideas
We welcome your views on how Tata Steel can make the most of these significant new innovations. No ideas are off limits and your suggestions will be treated in confidence.
Dom Withington Global Account Manager, Vodafone Business
Alastair Butters National Account Manager , Vodafone Business
Andy Milligan Customer Success Partner, Vodafone. Business
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