5G • Services
RedCap (NR-Light)
Reduced Capability 5G NR (3GPP Release 17/18)
A standardized 5G NR device category filling the gap between high-speed eMBB and low-power LPWAN for mid-tier IoT devices.
Technical Explanation
RedCap (introduced in 3GPP Release 17 and enhanced in Release 18 as eRedCap) scales down 5G device complexity, cost, and power consumption for mid-tier industrial and consumer applications (such as smartwatches, video surveillance cameras, and industrial wireless sensors). It reduces maximum bandwidth (20 MHz in FR1, 100 MHz in FR2), lowers receiver antennas (1 or 2 Rx instead of 4 Rx), relaxes MIMO layers, and integrates power-saving techniques like extended DRX while retaining 5G standalone architecture and network slicing support.
Key Functions
- Bandwidth reduction to 20 MHz (FR1) / 100 MHz (FR2)
- Relaxed antenna requirements (1 Rx or 2 Rx antennas)
- Substantial reduction in modem silicon cost and bill-of-materials (BOM)
- Support for 5G Core native features: Network Slicing, Positioning, and 5G Security
Specifications
3GPP TS 38.306, TS 38.875, Release 17/18
Interfaces
Uu (Radio Air Interface)
Related 5G Concepts
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