UScellular has joined forces with MxD (Manufacturing x Digital) to propel private networking technologies within the U.S. manufacturing sector. The telecommunications company has now positioned itself as a key player in MxD’s initiatives, which focuses on the integration of advanced manufacturing technologies. MxD’s state-of-the-art factory floor, located in downtown Chicago, boasts some of the most sophisticated equipment and software, underscoring the potential for accelerated digital manufacturing.
The partnership will spotlight UScellular’s private 5G network solutions. These networks aim to enhance digital manufacturing capabilities demonstrated at MxD. This alignment is part of the telco’s broader deployment of public 4G and 5G networks across states including Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, and Nebraska.
Berardino Baratta, CEO of MxD, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “MxD is thrilled to partner with UScellular to bring public and private wireless cellular leadership to MxD.” He further emphasized that this collaboration would blend private cellular tech with existing Wi-Fi systems, thereby pushing the envelope of Industry 4.0 communication technologies.
The alliance will also tap into funding projected by the U.S. Department of Defense, a move that provides commercial applications. According to Kim Kerr, Senior Vice President of Enterprise Sales and Operations at UScellular, this partnership aligns with their mission to boost technology innovation, cybersecurity, and workforce development in U.S. factories.
The technology collaboration aims to improve plant and manufacturing floor operations. It enables better communication, monitoring, and control of intricate automated systems. Use cases from this partnership will target Industry 4.0 manufacturing, distribution, warehousing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). This includes connecting these facilities with cutting-edge technologies like sensors, machine learning, artificial intelligence, AR/VR, and autonomous robotics.
Overall, UScellular’s strategic move into the private networking arena, through partnerships and technological advancements, sets a promising pathway to modernize and digitize U.S. manufacturing. This partnership with MxD symbolizes a significant leap towards a more connected and technologically advanced future in manufacturing.
