Semtech Unveils 5G RedCap Routers for Low-Power Industrial IoT

Meta Description: Semtech launches new 5G RedCap routers RX400 and EX400, delivering low-power, future-ready 5G connectivity for industrial and commercial IoT deployments

Semtech just rolled out two new networking devices—the AirLink RX400 and EX400—that aim to solve a real headache for industries struggling with connectivity. These are 5G RedCap routers, built from the ground up to deliver solid 5G performance while barely sipping power. We’re talking less than a watt when idle, which is a big deal for solar- and battery-powered IoT setups.

Right now, a lot of companies feel caught in the middle. Their old 4G LTE networks are getting outdated, but mainstream 5G is pricey and eats up too much energy for most real-world IoT jobs. Semtech’s new 5G RedCap routers cut through that mess, delivering reliable 5G connectivity without the usual power drain or high costs.

Why 5G RedCap Matters for Industry

Omdia predicts we’ll see over 656 million 5G RedCap connections by 2030. It’s catching on fast, especially in industrial environments, because it strikes a balance between performance, affordability, and energy efficiency. Organizations don’t have to pay for full-scale 5G while still getting the performance they actually need.

As Shobhit Srivastava at Omdia explains, 5G RedCap is the logical upgrade path as LTE networks fade out over the next decade. Semtech’s 5G RedCap routers are designed specifically for this transition, offering long-term network stability for industrial and commercial operations.

Built for Today’s Needs and Tomorrow’s Networks

Both the RX400 and EX400 support 5G RedCap and LTE Cat-4, allowing businesses to deploy immediately while remaining future-ready. Built on 3GPP Release 17 and a 5G Standalone architecture, the routers deliver low latency and sufficient throughput for demanding IoT workloads. A 2×2 MIMO antenna configuration further simplifies deployment across diverse environments.

Kinana Hussain, vice president of AirLink networking solutions at Semtech, noted that industrial IoT has long been stuck between aging LTE infrastructure and power-hungry traditional 5G. These 5G RedCap routers change that equation by offering rugged performance with sub-1W power consumption, enabling upgrades without compromising sustainability.

RX400: Rugged 5G for Harsh Outdoor Environments

The AirLink RX400 is built for extreme outdoor conditions, featuring an IP64-rated enclosure and MIL-STD-810H certification. It supports global private LTE and 5G bands, including Anterix Band 106, making it well suited for utilities, energy, and oil and gas operations. Its ultra-low power requirements make solar-powered, remote deployments practical for the first time using 5G RedCap routers.

EX400: Flexible Connectivity for Commercial IoT

The AirLink EX400 features a semi-rugged design tailored for commercial IoT applications such as retail, manufacturing, and agriculture. With dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, edge computing capabilities, and optional Wi-Fi 6, it offers flexibility for indoor and semi-outdoor environments that require reliable, low-power connectivity.

Management, Support, and Availability

Both routers include one year of AirLink Complete, covering hardware warranty, 24/7 technical support, and cloud-based management via the AirLink Management Service (ALMS). Additional management options allow enterprises to operate deployments either on-premises or in the cloud.

The AirLink RX400 and EX400 are available now through Semtech’s authorized channel partners, giving industries a practical path to low-power, future-proof 5G connectivity powered by 5G RedCap routers—without the usual trade-offs.