Vodafone to exhibit portable 5G network prototype built on Raspberry Pi at MWC 2023, which could be used to create a private mobile network much more secure and powerful than Wi-Fi.

Mobile Private Networks (MPNs) are primarily used by large companies or organizations with devices that need to connect a wide variety of devices, machines, vehicles or autonomous robots, such as those installed in a manufacturing plant. Vodafone is now trying to “democratize” this type of network. small businesses, professionals and even households where multiple residents come together at the same time to work at home, study or have free time.

Portable 5G network with Raspberry

The British operator’s prototype combines a Raspberry Pi 4 with a small software-defined radio (SDR) board made by British specialist Lime Microsystems. Raspberry Pis have already proven their worth in all types of projects and have been connected to the SDR board can change any computing platform to a miniature 5G base station.

The resulting system, similar in size to a router, can be used as part of a dedicated private network, an extension of a larger MPN or connected to Vodafone’s public network like any other base station. The board’s design is fully compliant with Open Radio Access Network (RAN) standards, meaning it can be used with any computing machine capable of running RAN-compatible software.

Prototype was developed in Spain, in the European R&D Center that Vodafone has in Malaga. The idea is pioneering and interesting, it allows small businesses and households to have their own private, affordable and portable 5G network, as it can be used in offices or homes, but also in a coffee shop, airport hall, park or any public network. the area covered by Vodafone’s pan-European 5G network, which, by the way, is very well extended.

Of course, this type of network is much more secure and private than public Wi-Fi and will offer excellent performance. Vodafone is looking for “suppliers who are interested” study the prototype and mass-produce it for the general public. We’ll have a chance to see it at Mobile World Congress 2023, which starts next Monday in Barcelona.