The Top 6 RAN Chipset Vendors

The Top 6 RAN chipset vendors - based on analysis of ongoing deployments & trials | Reads 5G Magazine, June Edition focussed on Open RAN

Introduction for “THE TOP 6 RAN CHIPSET VENDORS

As the telecommunications industry continues to evolve at a breakneck pace, the role of RAN (Radio Access Network) chipset vendors becomes increasingly pivotal. In the context of publicly announced ongoing and planned Open RAN deployments & trials as of May 2021, a select group of companies has emerged as leaders in this domain. These top 6 RAN chipset vendors have distinguished themselves through their innovative solutions, comprehensive product offerings, and significant market share. Their expertise in developing and supplying advanced chipset technologies has been crucial in driving the Open RAN movement, offering enhanced performance, efficiency, and flexibility in network deployments. The contributions of these vendors extend beyond mere hardware provision; they are integral to the shaping of future wireless communication networks, aligning with the industry’s shift towards more open, interoperable, and versatile network infrastructures.

Intel


Intel, a powerhouse in the semiconductor industry, is a key player among the top 6 RAN chipset vendors. Known for its high-performance chipsets, Intel’s offerings are instrumental in the infrastructure of modern RAN deployments. Their products, which include advanced processors and modems, are designed to meet the rigorous demands of Open RAN networks, ensuring high-speed, reliable, and efficient communication. Intel’s market dominance is further solidified through strategic partnerships with major telecom operators and vendors, underscoring their capability to drive innovation in the RAN chipset sector. Their continuous investment in R&D positions Intel at the forefront of the Open RAN evolution, providing solutions that cater to the rapidly changing landscape of telecommunications.

Qualcomm

Qualcomm is renowned for its leading role in wireless technology, and as a RAN chipset vendor, it continues to set industry standards. Their chipset solutions are central to numerous Open RAN deployments, offering unparalleled performance and connectivity. Qualcomm’s products are tailored for a wide range of network scenarios, from high-density urban areas to remote locations, ensuring comprehensive network coverage. The company’s significant market presence is a testament to its ability to adapt and innovate in the face of evolving network requirements. Qualcomm’s collaborations with other industry leaders in the Open RAN space further highlight their commitment to enhancing network capabilities and driving the widespread adoption of Open RAN technologies.

Xilinx

Xilinx is a prominent figure in the RAN chipset market, particularly known for its adaptive and intelligent computing solutions. As a top RAN chipset vendor, Xilinx specializes in providing highly flexible and programmable chipsets, crucial for the diverse demands of Open RAN networks. Their expertise in FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) technology allows for customizable and scalable network solutions, aligning with the dynamic needs of modern telecommunications. Xilinx’s role in the RAN chipset arena is marked by its continuous innovation and collaborative efforts to integrate advanced technologies into Open RAN deployments, making them a vital contributor to the advancement of flexible and efficient wireless networks.

NVIDIA

NVIDIA, while traditionally recognized for its graphics processing units, has also made significant strides in the RAN chipset sector. Their foray into RAN chipsets is marked by the development of cutting-edge technologies that enhance the processing capabilities of network infrastructures. NVIDIA’s chipsets are designed to support the high computational demands of Open RAN, facilitating more intelligent and responsive network operations. Their involvement in the Open RAN ecosystem showcases their commitment to leveraging their expertise in high-performance computing to revolutionize how wireless networks are deployed and managed.

Saankhya Labs

Saankhya Labs, an innovative player in the RAN chipset market, is carving out a niche with its unique software-defined radio (SDR) solutions. As one of the top RAN chipset vendors, they offer chipset technologies that are versatile and adaptable, catering to a wide array of network requirements. Saankhya Labs’ focus on SDR technology positions them uniquely in the Open RAN landscape, offering chipsets that provide greater flexibility and efficiency in network deployments. Their commitment to research and development in the field of wireless communication underscores their potential to significantly impact the Open RAN ecosystem with their advanced chipset solutions.

SignalChip

SignalChip is an emerging name in the RAN chipset industry, known for its indigenous development of advanced semiconductor solutions. As part of the top RAN chipset vendors, SignalChip brings to the table innovative chipset designs that are tailored for the diverse demands of Open RAN networks. Their products are characterized by high performance and scalability, crucial for efficient and robust network operations. SignalChip’s approach to chipset development is centered around enabling more flexible and cost-effective network infrastructures, aligning with the core objectives of Open RAN. Their growing influence in the market is a testament to their ability to deliver cutting-edge technologies that meet the evolving needs of the telecommunications sector.

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Award Category: Excellence in Private 5G/LTE Networks

Winner: Nokia


Nokia has been recognized with the TeckNexus 2024 Award for “Excellence in Private 5G/LTE Networks” for its transformative solutions that drive industrial digital transformation. Utilizing advanced technologies such as Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC) and Modular Private Wireless (MPW), Nokia delivers secure, scalable, and high-performance connectivity tailored for Industry 4.0 applications. By addressing complex operational challenges through reliable, low-latency connectivity, AI-driven automation, and robust data security, Nokia empowers enterprises to optimize efficiency, enhance automation, and foster sustainability. With deployments across over 795+ enterprise customers and 1,500 mission-critical networks, Nokia’s innovative private wireless solutions are setting new standards for connectivity, operational excellence, and industrial growth worldwide.

Award Category: Excellence in Neutral Host Networks

Winner: Celona

Partners: Del Conca and T-Mobile


Celona’s innovative 5G LAN and Neutral Host solutions have been recognized with the TeckNexus 2024 Award for “Excellence in Neutral Host Networks” for transforming connectivity and operational efficiency at Del Conca USA, a leading manufacturer of fine Italian porcelain tiles. By addressing the limitations of legacy Wi-Fi systems, Celona deployed a robust, scalable private wireless network that significantly enhanced coverage, mobility, and operational resilience across Del Conca’s 30-acre facility. Leveraging the Citizen’s Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum, Celona’s solution delivered reliable, interference-resistant connectivity, optimizing real-time data communication for Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and forklifts, thereby minimizing production delays and improving material handling efficiency. Additionally, Celona’s Neutral Host capabilities seamlessly integrated public cellular networks through a partnership with T-Mobile, providing uninterrupted indoor and outdoor connectivity for employees. This deployment not only showcased the transformative impact of Celona’s private 5G and Neutral Host solutions on manufacturing automation but also set a new benchmark for scalable, secure, and collaborative network integration across industrial environments.

Award Category: Excellence in Private Network Startups

Winner: GXC


GXC’s ONYX Platform, powered by Cellular Mesh technology, delivers scalable, seamless, and secure communication across industries. Recognized with the TeckNexus 2024 Award for “Excellence in Private Network Startups,” GXC’s proprietary Cellular Mesh technology and its ONYX Platform have established it as a frontrunner in delivering reliable, high-performance connectivity solutions tailored to meet the complex needs of enterprises.

Award Category: Excellence in Private Network Security

Winner: OneLayer


OneLayer’s innovative Zero Trust and Zero-Touch automation solutions provide unmatched security, visibility, and scalability for private LTE/5G networks. This approach has earned OneLayer the prestigious TeckNexus 2024 Award for “Excellence in Private Network Security,” recognizing their contributions to safeguarding private networks. By implementing robust security frameworks and automated device management, OneLayer empowers industries to efficiently manage and protect complex private cellular networks, enhancing network integrity and resilience through unmatched visibility, automated onboarding, and scalable security measures.

Award Category: Private Network Excellence in Generative AI Integration

Winner: Southern California Edison (SCE) & NVIDIA


Southern California Edison (SCE), in collaboration with NVIDIA, has been honored with the TeckNexus 2024 Award for “Excellence in Private Network AI and Generative AI Integration” for their transformative work in modernizing network operations through advanced AI and predictive analytics. Their initiative, Project Orca, exemplifies the power of AI-driven innovation, enhancing predictive capabilities, operational efficiency, and the reliability of critical infrastructure. This collaboration highlights how SCE and NVIDIA’s AI solutions redefine network operations, elevating performance and setting new standards for AI integration in private networks.

Award Category: Private Network Excellence in System Integration

Winner: L&T Technology Services (LTTS)

Partner: Ericsson, Athonet (HPE), Indian Mobile Operator


L&T Technology Services (LTTS) has been recognized with the prestigious TeckNexus 2024 Award for “Private Network Excellence in System Integration” for its advanced Private 5G integration solutions. This award highlights LTTS’s critical role in transforming industrial connectivity by enhancing operational technology (OT) and IT network reliability, boosting safety, and driving seamless automation across large-scale industrial environments. LTTS’s approach ensures optimal OT/IT convergence, increasing connectivity and operational efficiency and redefining standards for automation and network performance in the industrial sector.

Award Category: Private Network Excellence in Network Assurance

Winner: Anritsu

Partner: SmartViser, Major European Airline


Anritsu has been recognized with the TeckNexus 2024 Award for “Private Network Excellence in Network Assurance” for its outstanding achievements in ensuring private 5G/LTE network performance and reliability. This award highlights Anritsu’s comprehensive approach to network monitoring, business-centric KPIs, and performance analytics within mission-critical environments such as international airports. By leveraging advanced real-time monitoring, automated testing technologies, and collaborative solutions with SmartViser, Anritsu has set a new benchmark for maintaining optimal network efficiency, user satisfaction, and high-performance connectivity in complex private network scenarios.

Award Category: Private Network Excellence in Sustainability

Winner: Nokia


Nokia’s innovative Private Wireless Sustainability Calculator has been recognized with the 2024 TeckNexus “Private Network Excellence in Sustainability” award for its transformative impact on industrial, environmental and social sustainability. This first-of-its-kind tool enables industries to measure, optimize, and monetize their environmental and social impact as they transition from traditional Wi-Fi-only setups to advanced Industry 4.0 use cases powered by high-performance private wireless networks and mission-critical industrial edge solutions. By providing actionable insights to reduce energy consumption, optimize resource usage, and accelerate progress toward net-zero goals, Nokia’s solution exemplifies leadership in sustainable and energy-efficient private 5G/LTE network deployments, driving meaningful progress in industrial digital transformation and sustainability.

Award Category: Private Network Excellence in Innovation

Winner: Fiducia Sports AI


Fiducia Sports AI has been recognized with the TeckNexus 2024 Award for “Private Network Excellence in Innovation” for transforming fan engagement in the sports and entertainment industry. By leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and the power of public and private 5G networks, Fiducia’s innovative platform delivers real-time player stats, immersive AR experiences, and interactive content. This seamless and personalized connection enhances fan interaction with sports events across diverse platforms, redefining the fan experience and transforming how audiences engage with sports content, regardless of their location.

Award Category: Private Network Excellence in Manufacturing

Winner: Ericsson


Ericsson has been recognized with the TeckNexus 2024 Award for “Private Network Excellence in Manufacturing” for its transformative work at the USA 5G Smart Factory in Lewisville, Texas, and global deployments such as the Smart Factory Innovation Centre in Wolverhampton, UK, Atlas Copco Tools, and Toyota Material Handling’s facility in Columbus, Indiana. By integrating private 5G connectivity with advanced Industry 4.0 technologies, Ericsson has set new benchmarks for optimizing manufacturing processes, enhancing supply chain resilience, and elevating operational efficiency. This award underscores Ericsson’s leadership in leveraging private 5G to drive innovation in areas such as remote inspections, predictive maintenance, and sustainable production, redefining modern manufacturing standards through secure and scalable connectivity solutions.

Award Category: Private Network Excellence in Sports and Events Venue

Winner: NTT DATA

Partner: Cisco


NTT DATA, in partnership with Cisco, has transformed RAI Amsterdam into a smart, connected venue with the deployment of a private 5G network, earning the 2024 TeckNexus “Private Network Excellence in Sports and Events Venue” award. This smart venue innovation project optimizes visitor engagement, enhances operational efficiency, and supports RAI Amsterdam’s sustainability goals.
As a result, RAI Amsterdam has set a new benchmark for connected venues across Europe, delivering enriched visitor experiences, real-time analytics, and comprehensive event management capabilities.

Award Category: Private Network Excellence in Warehouse and Logistics

Winner: GXC


GXC’s deployment of its innovative Onyx LTE private cellular network at a large-scale poultry processing facility has earned the prestigious TeckNexus 2024 Award for “Private Network Excellence in Warehouse and Logistics.” This transformative project revolutionized connectivity and operational efficiency across the 50-acre facility, addressing critical challenges faced by the food processing industry. By enhancing data communication, inventory management, regulatory compliance, and operational processes, GXC demonstrated the powerful potential of private cellular technology to improve automation, tracking, and supply chain efficiency. The award-winning solution underscores how private networks can redefine warehouse and logistics management in the food processing sector and beyond.

Award Category: Private Network Excellence in Mining

Winner: Ericsson


Ericsson has been recognized with the TeckNexus 2024 Award for “Private Network Excellence in Mining” for its innovative application of private 5G technology to transform mining operations. This accolade highlights Ericsson’s leadership in modernizing the mining sector through high-speed, secure, and low-latency connectivity that drives safety, operational efficiency, and automation. By delivering private 5G solutions, Ericsson is redefining the mining landscape, enabling digitalization, enhancing remote operation capabilities, and promoting sustainable practices in one of the world’s most challenging industrial environments.

Award Category: Private Network Excellence in Airports

Winner: Ericsson

Partner: Purdue University & Saab


Ericsson, in collaboration with Purdue University and Saab, has been honored with the 2024 TeckNexus Award for “Private Network Excellence in Airports” for deploying a private 5G network at Purdue University Airport, transforming it into a “living laboratory” for aviation innovation. This initiative sets a new standard for airport operations by enhancing connectivity, enabling real-time data communication, and supporting advanced aviation applications such as autonomous systems, flight operations management, drone detection, and electric aircraft charging. By optimizing operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability, the private 5G network addresses complex challenges in the aviation industry. This deployment underscores Ericsson’s leadership in leveraging private 5G technology to modernize airport environments, paving the way for smarter, safer, and more sustainable air travel solutions globally.

Award Category: Private Network Excellence in Education

Winner: InfiniG

Partner: Parkside Elementary School, Intel, AT&T, and T-Mobile


InfiniG’s Mobile Coverage-as-a-Service (MCaaS) solution has earned the 2024 TeckNexus “Private Network Excellence in Education” award for its transformative impact on student safety and connectivity at Parkside Elementary in Murray, Utah. This innovative deployment, completed in partnership with Intel, AT&T, and T-Mobile, provided comprehensive in-building mobile coverage to address critical safety and communication challenges for students, teachers, staff, and parents. By enhancing secure and connected educational environments, InfiniG’s solution exemplifies the potential of private networks to improve campus security and foster more connected learning experiences.

Award Category: Public/Private Network Excellence in Healthcare

Winners: LifeSigns, floLIVE & Hetrogenous


LifeSigns, in partnership with floLIVE and Hetrogenous, has been recognized with the TeckNexus 2024 Award for “Private Network Excellence in Healthcare” for their LifeConnect 5G IoT-powered Connected Ambulance Solution. This transformative technology enhances emergency medical response by enabling seamless real-time patient monitoring, secure data transmission, and uninterrupted communication between ambulances and hospital teams. By elevating healthcare standards and improving critical patient care during emergencies, LifeConnect exemplifies the impactful use of connectivity to drive advancements in healthcare delivery.

Award Category: Private Network Excellence in Public Safety

Winner: Cumucore

Partner: Ripsim, Mosolabs, Starlink


When Hurricane Helene struck Western North Carolina, it left behind severe physical destruction and a critical communication crisis, isolating communities from essential resources and emergency services. In response, Cumucore, in collaboration with Ripsim, Mosolabs, and Starlink, deployed a resilient and scalable private mobile network that rapidly restored essential connectivity where it was needed most. This innovative deployment earned Cumucore the 2024 TeckNexus “Private Network Excellence in Public Safety” award, recognizing their transformative use of private network technology to enhance disaster response and ensure reliable communication for affected areas during emergencies.

Award Category: Private Network Excellence in Agriculture

Winner: Invences &

Partner: Trilogy Networks


Invences Inc., in collaboration with Trilogy Networks, has been recognized with the 2024 TeckNexus “Private Network Excellence in Agriculture” award for their pioneering deployment of a private 5G network tailored to transform farming operations. Implemented at a large-scale agricultural project in Fargo, North Dakota, this innovative collaboration drives digital transformation in agriculture through precision farming, real-time monitoring, AI-driven insights, and seamless data integration across rural and remote environments. Their efforts exemplify how 5G technology can revolutionize agricultural productivity and sustainability, setting new standards for efficiency and innovation in the sector.

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