Kontron Partners with Telekom Slovenije to Establish the First Commercial Standalone Private 5G Network in Slovenia

Kontron has partnered with Telekom Slovenije to implement a private 5G mobile network solution at Cinkarna Celje, enabling advanced wireless connectivity across its production site in Celje, including seven warehouses. This deployment facilitates warehouse digitalisation through portable mobile terminals. It is the first network in the region based on standalone (SA) 5G technology, enabling the use of new applications, services, and solutions for business digitalisation.

Kontron’s comprehensive solution includes both software and hardware for implementing the 5G SA core network, while Telekom Slovenije provides high-performance, reliable, and secure connectivity via its 5G Radio Access Network (RAN).

“Our private 5G mobile network solution, developed in Slovenia, ensures robust and secure coverage in factory areas and warehouses. It is designed for industrial use and incorporates features for easy network and device management. The solution enables seamless mobility for people, assets, and goods, boosting productivity and efficiency while prioritising security, reliability, and cost optimisation. It also supports various applications,” said Janez Öri, Executive Director of Communications Solutions at Kontron.

At Cinkarna Celje, which employs around 720 people, the first phase of the private 5G network deployment focuses on warehouse digitalisation to optimise operations. The solution now enables material tracking using barcode scanners and the integration of sensors with direct 5G connectivity. In the future, the private mobile network will serve as a platform for digitalising other business segments, bringing additional business benefits.

“With the introduction of Slovenia’s first commercial 5G network, we have taken a significant step forward in Cinkarna’s digital transformation. The network allows for faster and more reliable data transmission, which is crucial for improving efficiency and productivity. Low latency will enable the use of advanced technologies such as automation and remote operations, contributing to greater safety and reliability in our services. We see wide-ranging applications of the 5G network across various industrial scenarios, including warehouse automation, enhanced employee mobility, and connectivity,” explained Aleš Skok, CEO of Cinkarna Celje.

“Through our 5G network at Cinkarna Celje, we provide a powerful and reliable private mobile network tailored to industrial requirements. With dedicated base stations, we have achieved optimal coverage of production areas, warehouses, and outdoor spaces, ensuring stable, responsive, and secure data transmission even with many connected devices. This enables real-time applications and seamless operation of critical processes,” said Kristijan Melinc, Head of the Advanced Digital Solutions Team at Telekom Slovenije. He added: “By using the latest radio technologies, we provide high data transmission speeds, low latency, and secure and reliable connectivity. This makes the private 5G network a key foundation for Cinkarna Celje’s digital transformation and transition to the smart factory of the future.”

Kontron’s standalone 5G core network for enterprises represents a next-generation solution, offering secure and reliable 5G connectivity. “The solution, which we have been developing at our Kranj facility since 2020, is tailored for deployment in various industrial environments. It ensures an extremely fast service rollout, enabling advanced and intelligent management while carefully protecting sensitive data,” summarised Janez Öri.

Furthermore, the secure and reliable device connectivity provided by the network can also be leveraged for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions, such as autonomous mobile vehicles (AGVs – Automated Guided Vehicles) and sensors designed for monitoring and control processes.