Chinese firm Fibocom has launched 5G RedCap modules for streamlined 5G upgrades in mid-tier IoT applications.

For many IoT devices, upgrading to 5G is not simply about achieving higher bandwidth. Industrial gateways, security and surveillance systems, aftermarket automotive applications, energy applications, and mifi devices often have different priorities. Reliable connectivity, power efficiency, cost and product development efficiency can matter just as much.

To address these requirements, Fibocom has launched the RU311 5G RedCap modules. The series provides a practical option for upgrading mid-tier IoT devices from 4G to a streamlined 5G architecture.

Built on the Unisoc V527 (www.unisoc.com/cn/product/WA-IoT/V527) platform, the RU311 supports 5G RedCap and is compatible with LTE Cat 4. It provides a flexible upgrade path between traditional 4G and higher-end 5G for mid-tier IoT applications.

For these devices, the key to a 5G upgrade is not simply higher speed. The more important question is whether 5G can meet actual application requirements with the right balance of performance, power consumption and cost.

The RU311 (www.fibocom.com/en/SeriesProduct/info_itemid_154.html) supports dual-mode 5G RedCap and LTE Cat 4 connectivity. In 5G RedCap mode, it delivers peak downlink speeds of up to 226Mbit/s and uplink speeds of up to 120Mbit/s. In LTE mode, peak speeds reach 150Mbit/s downlink and 50Mbit/s uplink. These data rates can support applications such as status reporting, remote control, video uplink, mobile broadband access and industrial data transmission.

For those planning product upgrades, it balances 5G evolution with power and cost considerations. It helps existing mid-tier IoT devices transition more smoothly from 4G to 5G.

The challenge of upgrading a device often extends beyond the wireless standard itself. Manufacturers may also need to redesign the motherboard, adapt interfaces, complete testing and validation, and manage a product introduction cycle.

The RU311 LGA variant comes in a 32 by 29 by 2.4mm package. Its pin layout is designed with compatibility considerations for Fibocom’s FG132 RedCap module and NL668/L716 Cat 4 modules. This makes it easier to develop 4G and 5G products on compatible hardware designs.

For those with existing 4G platforms, this approach can reduce hardware migration and repetitive development work. It also allows more development resources to be focused on application experience, use-case adaptation and product introduction.

The series is available in LGA, M.2 and Mini PCIe form factors to support different device designs and development stages. The M.2 variant is for rapid validation and platform integration. The Mini PCIe variant can be integrated into industrial gateways, routers, industrial PCs and embedded platforms. These options can reduce hardware adaptation work and accelerate product development.

The series supports protocols including TCP/UDP, HTTP/HTTPS, SSL and MQTT. It also provides interfaces such as USB, uart, RGMII, SDIO, I²C, SPI and GPIO. Together, these capabilities support key functions across device connectivity, remote operations and maintenance, data transmission, and platform integration.

“As IoT devices evolve from 4G to 5G, different types of devices require connectivity capabilities that match their specific business needs,” said Kony Li, general manager of Fibocom’s MTC business unit. “The RU311 further expands Fibocom’s 5G RedCap portfolio. Going forward, Fibocom will continue working with Unisoc to advance RedCap product innovation. We aim to provide customers with a broader range of adaptable 5G connectivity options and support the continued evolution of different types of IoT devices.”

Fibocom (www.fibocom.com), founded in 1999, is China’s first wireless communication module company listed on both the A-share and H-share markets.