Exciting news for the private LTE community! My company, Abc-Hosters LLC, has been officially assigned the dedicated PLMN 314-990 by the IMSI Administration. This unique identifier allows us to operate our own distinct mobile network, ideal for custom deployments where we need full control over network identity, subscriber management, and potential integrations like roaming or larger-scale private LTE setups.
In addition, Everyone Bandwidth Inc.—a nonprofit focused on empowering low-income families and students with tech and resources—has been assigned the Shared HNI 315-010-0148 as part of the CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) framework. This includes the shared PLMN-ID 315-010 combined with their unique IMSI Block Number (IBN) 0148, enabling efficient use of shared spectrum for private networks.
For those new to this, a PLMN (Public Land Mobile Network) or HNI (Home Network Identity) is essentially the unique code (made up of a Mobile Country Code like 314 or 315, plus a Mobile Network Code) that identifies a mobile network operator. It’s how devices know which network to connect to, stored in SIMs or eSIMs.
The key difference between a dedicated PLMN like 314-990 and a Shared HNI like 315-010-0148 boils down to scale and sharing:
- Dedicated PLMN (e.g., 314-990): This is a fully unique identifier assigned to a single entity. It’s great for operators building standalone networks without overlap risks, supporting things like global uniqueness for base stations, mobility management, and easier expansion. Think of it as your own private highway—exclusive and customizable for enterprise or specialized use cases.
- Shared HNI (e.g., 315-010 with IBN 0148): Designed for efficiency in bands like CBRS (3.5 GHz shared spectrum in the US), where multiple operators share the same base PLMN-ID to conserve limited codes. Networks are distinguished using additional identifiers like CBRS Network IDs (NIDs) or IBNs for subscriber blocks (each IBN provides 100,000 IMSIs). It’s like a shared express lane—perfect for smaller private LTE deployments, cost-effective, and collision-free with managed extras from groups like the OnGo Alliance.
How can these be used?
- In Private LTE Networks: Both enable deploying your own 4G/5G networks for secure, high-performance connectivity in settings like campuses, factories, or events. Use them with eNodeBs/gNodeBs, core networks (EPC/5GC), and SIMs provisioned with the matching identifiers. For CBRS specifically, the Shared HNI pairs with Spectrum Access Systems (SAS) to dynamically allocate spectrum without interference.
- Practical Applications: Abc-Hosters LLC will leverage 314-990 for hosting tailored private networks, potentially integrating with public carriers. Everyone Bandwidth Inc can use 315-010-0148 to roll out affordable, community-focused CBRS networks, bridging digital divides with reliable wireless access for education and essentials.
- Getting Started: If you’re building one, start by provisioning SIMs with the PLMN/HNI, configuring your RAN to broadcast it, and ensuring compatibility with 3GPP standards. For Shared HNIs, grab managed identifiers (e.g., NIDs, TACs) from OnGo to avoid conflicts.
This opens up awesome possibilities for innovation in private LTE—let’s discuss how you’re using similar setups or if you have questions on implementation! 🚀 #PrivateLTE #CBRS #PLMN #HNI