Cellular as a Wireless Option for Tier 1 Communications Systems

By: Dave MacKinnon, VP of Product Management & Marco Lopez, CTO, Clear-Com

Tier 1 communication networks are seeking new wireless technologies to meet the growing demands for reliable communication systems in live production and broadcasting environments. Cellular connectivity, driven by advancements in public & private 5G/LTE networks, is becoming a viable supplement or even replacement for traditional RF-based intercom systems. This blog post examines the challenges, benefits, and feasibility of integrating cellular into professional-grade communications workflows. 

Traditional RF-based systems are now facing spectrum congestion as the number of wireless devices continues to grow.  Moreover, regulatory limitations and coverage constraints are making cellular a compelling option for certain users. Private 5G networks that use advanced network slicing and ultra-reliable low-latency communications offer dedicated bandwidth as well as enhanced security. Cellular technology also enables more flexible deployments by eliminating frequency coordination challenges and supporting higher user densities without compromising audio quality or reliability. 

Transitioning to cellular-based communications solutions, however, presents key challenges without the proper support or products. Successful integration with existing workflows, ensuring network reliability under high-demand conditions is essential for effective deployment. With Clear-Com’s leadership in communications and Verizon’s advancements in private cellular networks, cellular technology is set to shape the way high-demand environments handle mission-critical communication, offering robust solutions that scale seamlessly and maintain performance across complex workflows. 

As broadcast and live events continue to change and adopt growing number of wireless devices, new technological advancements in cellular connectivity have the potential to offer expanded flexibility, scalability, and performance in professional communications. Clear-Com has a long history of delivering reliable mission-critical communication systems for high-demand environments. Moreover, its very successful Agent-IC app, developed for mobile and smart devices, has already proven that cellular connectivity has the bandwidth necessary for professional comms, even with the accepted shortcomings of riding on a public cellular network.