Semiconductor innovator MediaTek has revealed RedCap solutions, aiming to broaden 5G connectivity options for a wide array of Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Drawing upon its expertise in 5G connectivity, MediaTek has introduced the M60 modem IP and the MediaTek T300 chipset series as part of its RedCap initiative. These solutions promise improved 5G data rates and notable power efficiency for various applications.
The RedCap solutions represent MediaTek’s strategic expansion in modem and chipset offerings, focusing on enabling a smooth transition to 5G-NR (New Radio) for devices demanding extended battery life, such as wearables, lightweight AR devices, IoT modules, and edge AI-driven devices.
RedCap, denoting “reduced capability,” is specifically tailored to bring 5G benefits to devices with lower bandwidth needs. By capitalizing on the evolution of 5G networks towards Standalone (SA) architecture, RedCap aims for reliability without the typical costs and complexities associated with standard 5G solutions.
JC Hsu, Corporate Senior Vice President at MediaTek, emphasized the significance of RedCap solutions, stating, “Our RedCap solutions are part of our endeavor to expand 5G accessibility, offering customers flexibility in developing 5G-enabled devices across various applications and price points.”
The RedCap solutions seek to replace legacy 4G/LTE solutions, promising improved power efficiency and better user experiences compared to leading-edge 5G eMMB (enhanced Mobile Broadband) modem solutions and legacy 4G LTE Cat 4 and Cat 6 devices.
The MediaTek T300 series, claimed to be the world’s first 6nm Radio Frequency System-On-Chip (RFSOC) single-die solution for RedCap, allows brands to explore the growing RedCap market. This innovation aims to foster innovative designs across enterprise, industrial, consumer, AR, and data-card applications. Built on the TSMC 6nm process, the MediaTek T300 series integrates a single-core Arm Cortex-A35 in a significantly compact PCB area, supporting up to 227 Mbps downlink and 122 Mbps uplink data rates.
Both the T300 series and the M60 5G modem IP adhere to the 3GPP R17 standard, combining MediaTek’s power efficiency with coverage enhancements and low latency. The M60, leveraging MediaTek’s UltraSave 4.0 technology, boasts reduced power consumption compared to similar 5G eMBB solutions and 4G LTE solutions by minimizing unnecessary paging receptions.
The introduction of MediaTek’s RedCap solutions signifies an evolution in efficiency and cost-effectiveness for 5G-enabled devices across various sectors. Samples of the MediaTek T300 series are expected in the first half of 2024, followed by commercial availability later in the year.
