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CradlePoint TCA5-R980-5GD-A R980 Wi-Fi 6 Dual-Band Modem/Wireless Router - 5G/LTE Cellular - Dual SIM - Gigabit Ethernet - DIN Rail Mountable
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Product Features
Technical Overview
The R980 operates on the IEEE 802.11k/r/v/ax wireless standard, delivering Wi-Fi 6 performance across dual bands with maximum frequencies of 2.40 GHz (ISM) and 5 GHz (UNII). Its dual-core processor and 921 MB of standard memory efficiently handle network traffic, while MU-MIMO technology optimizes throughput for multiple connected devices simultaneously.
Cellular connectivity spans 5G NR and extensive LTE bands including LTE 2100, 1900, 1800, 1700, 850, 2600, 900, 700, 800, 2300, 1500, 600, 2000, 2500, 3500, 3700, and 5200, with support for WCDMA, UMTS, HSPA+, and LTE Advanced Pro technologies. Total wireless transmission speed reaches 153.60 MB/s, ensuring smooth data transfer for HD video streaming, file downloads, and real-time applications.
Relevant factors for this section include Wi-Fi Generation, Network Band, Processor Core, Broadband Transmission Technology. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
This router excels in environments requiring dependable connectivity with minimal infrastructure. Its integrated cellular modem provides a built-in failover solution, reducing downtime and maintaining business continuity during primary network outages.
Dual SIM Flexibility
Support for two SIM cards allows configuration with multiple carriers, enabling automatic switching if one network experiences issues. This redundancy is critical for applications where constant connectivity is non-negotiable.
- Carrier redundancy
- Automatic failover
- Nano/eSIM compatibility
Industrial-Grade Design
The DIN rail mountable form factor and compact dimensions make installation straightforward in control panels, server racks, or industrial enclosures. Its robust construction suits harsh environments where standard consumer routers would not survive.
- DIN rail mounting
- Compact footprint
- Industrial durability
Deployment / Use Cases
The CradlePoint R980 is ideal for scenarios where traditional wired internet is impractical, unreliable, or needs augmentation. Its combination of Wi-Fi 6 and cellular technologies makes it versatile for both fixed and mobile deployments.
In retail environments, the router can connect point-of-sale systems, digital signage, and inventory management tools, ensuring transactions proceed smoothly even during ISP outages. For transportation and logistics, it provides connectivity for fleet telematics, GPS tracking, and onboard entertainment systems in vehicles or temporary sites.
Remote Monitoring & IoT
Deploy the R980 at remote sites such as construction zones, agricultural fields, or utility substations to connect sensors, cameras, and control systems. Cellular connectivity eliminates the need for costly wired infrastructure in isolated locations.
Temporary Networks & Events
Set up reliable internet quickly for pop-up stores, trade shows, or outdoor events. The router's dual-band Wi-Fi supports high-density client connections, while cellular backup ensures the network stays live regardless of venue wiring limitations.
Physical Profile
Designed for practical installation in space-constrained environments, the R980 measures 5.26 inches wide, 4.78 inches deep, and 1.61 inches high, with a weight of approximately 1.32 pounds. Its DIN rail mountable form factor allows secure attachment in industrial cabinets, network racks, or control panels without requiring additional shelving or brackets. The compact, low-profile design integrates neatly into existing infrastructure while providing full-featured networking capabilities.
- Width
- 5.26" (133.60 mm)
- Depth
- 4.78" (121.50 mm)
- Height
- 1.61" (41 mm)
- Weight
- 1.32 lb (601 g)
Highlights
- Wi-Fi 6 dual-band wireless with IEEE 802.11k/r/v/ax standard
- 5G/LTE cellular connectivity with support for multiple bands and technologies
- Dual SIM card slots for carrier redundancy and automatic failover
- Gigabit Ethernet port for high-speed wired network connections
- DIN rail mountable form factor for industrial and rack installations
- Built-in USB port for connecting peripherals or storage devices
- VPN support for secure remote access and site-to-site connections
- Flash memory capacity of 8 GB for firmware and configuration storage
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | ERICSSON |
| Manufacturer Part Number | TCA5-R980-5GD-A |
| Brand Name | CradlePoint |
| Product Series | R980 |
| Product Name | R980 Modem/Wireless Router |
| Product Type | Modem/Wireless Router |
| Technical Information | |
| Wi-Fi Generation | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Network Band | Dual Band |
| Processor Core | Dual-core (2 Core) |
| Standard Memory | 921 MB |
| MU-MIMO Technology | Yes |
| Wireless Specifications | |
| Broadband Transmission Technology | Ethernet,Cellular |
| Wireless LAN Standard | IEEE 802.11k/r/v/ax |
| ISM Band | Yes |
| UNII Band | Yes |
| ISM Maximum Frequency | 2.40 GHz |
| UNII Maximum Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Cellular Generation | 5G |
| Cellular Network Supported | LTE 2100,LTE 1900,LTE 1800,LTE 1700,LTE 850,LTE 2600,LTE 900,LTE 700,LTE 800,LTE 2300,LTE 1500,LTE 600,LTE 2000,LTE 2500,LTE 3500,LTE 3700,LTE 5200 |
| Cellular Data Connectivity Technology | 5G NR,LTE,WCDMA,UMTS,HSPA+,LTE Advanced Pro |
| Total Wireless Transmission Speed | 153.60 MB/s |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of Network Ports | 2 |
| Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports | 1 |
| USB | Yes |
| Number of Broadband (RJ-45) Ports | 1 |
| Network & Communication | |
| Ethernet Technology | Gigabit Ethernet |
| VPN Supported | Yes |
| Multi-SIM Supported | Yes |
| Number of SIM Card Supported | 2 |
| SIM Size Supported | Nano/eSim |
| Storage | |
| Flash Memory Capacity | 8 GB |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | DIN Rail Mountable |
| Height | 1.61" (41 mm) |
| Width | 5.26" (133.60 mm) |
| Depth | 4.78" (121.50 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 1.32 lb (601 g) |
User Manual
FAQ
What Wi-Fi standard does this router support?
The CradlePoint R980 supports the IEEE 802.11k/r/v/ax standard, commonly known as Wi-Fi 6. This provides improved performance, efficiency, and capacity over previous Wi-Fi generations, with features like MU-MIMO for better handling of multiple devices and dual-band operation across 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies.
How many SIM cards can this router accommodate?
This router supports two SIM cards, allowing for dual-carrier configurations. It accepts nano-sized SIMs and also supports eSIM technology, providing flexibility for network redundancy. If one cellular carrier experiences issues, the router can automatically switch to the secondary SIM to maintain connectivity.
What cellular networks is this router compatible with?
The router is compatible with 5G NR and a wide range of LTE bands including LTE 2100, 1900, 1800, 1700, 850, 2600, 900, 700, 800, 2300, 1500, 600, 2000, 2500, 3500, 3700, and 5200. It also supports legacy technologies like WCDMA, UMTS, HSPA+, and LTE Advanced Pro, ensuring broad compatibility with cellular networks globally.
Can this router be mounted in an industrial setting?
Yes, the R980 features a DIN rail mountable form factor, making it suitable for installation in industrial control panels, server racks, or network cabinets. Its compact dimensions of 5.26" W x 4.78" D x 1.61" H and weight of 1.32 lb allow for easy integration into space-constrained environments without requiring additional mounting hardware.
What wired connectivity options are available?
The router includes two network ports: one Gigabit Ethernet port for high-speed wired connections and one broadband RJ-45 port. It also features a built-in USB port for connecting external devices such as storage drives or peripherals. These ports provide flexibility for integrating the router into both wireless and wired network infrastructures.
What is the wireless transmission speed of this router?
The total wireless transmission speed is 153.60 MB/s. This speed supports demanding applications like HD video streaming, large file transfers, and real-time data communication. Combined with Wi-Fi 6 efficiency and cellular connectivity, it ensures smooth performance for multiple connected devices in business environments.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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