OUR MISSION
Cal Poly’s 5G Innovation Lab emphasizes hands-on learning by engaging students in real-world applied use cases of 5G technology and private cellular, powering innovative research and expanding campus connectivity. Utilizing the success of the DxHub innovation methodology, we work with industry to aid public sector and government partners and overcome digital transformation challenges through integrating students and faculty into problem-solving initiatives.
CURRENT
Swanton Pacific Ranch 5G Living Lab
5G Innovation is currently working with Cal Poly’s Swanton Pacific Ranch, a 3,200-acre living laboratory nestled along California’s Central Coast, has historically faced challenges with limited cellular connectivity due to its remote location and rugged terrain. To address this, the university’s 5G Innovation Lab has extended its private LTE/5G network to the ranch, deploying off-grid CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) towers equipped with intelligent handover technology.
This infrastructure ensures seamless device transitions across the network, providing consistent and reliable coverage throughout the ranch. The implementation of a neutral host model allows multiple mobile network operators to utilize the same infrastructure, enabling students, faculty, and visitors to access strong cellular connections using their personal mobile plans without the need for Cal Poly-specific SIM cards. This advancement not only enhances safety—ensuring that individuals can make emergency calls in areas previously lacking coverage—but also supports a wide range of research activities.
Cal Poly Hybrid 5G MVNO Pilot Program
Cal Poly is developing a university-managed initiative that blends its private LTE infrastructure with national carrier networks to offer students an affordable, high-quality mobile data plan. By leveraging the university’s existing CBRS-based private network and integrating it with macro-level commercial coverage, this hybrid model aims to reduce costs while maintaining broad, seamless connectivity both on and off campus.
The goal is to provide students with a reliable, low-cost mobile plan that uses Cal Poly’s own infrastructure where available and transitions to national networks elsewhere. This approach not only makes mobile access more affordable, but also empowers the university to manage security, quality of service, and coverage gaps more effectively than relying solely on public providers.
PREVIOUS
Cal Poly Digital Twin
Assisting Construction Management, the digital twin created provides a highly detailed geospatial model that can significantly enhance 5G network planning of Cal Poly. By accurately mapping building layouts, terrain, and obstructions, the model helps engineers optimize small cell placement. Learn more in the Construction Management news letter.
Private Cellular Network at Poly Canyon
The lab embarked to provide cellular connectivity in Poly Canyon. Utilizing the CBRS band, users can access emergency services and receive coverage through partnered carriers.
Expanding Cellular Coverage to the Pier with Private LTE
Explore how Cal Poly’s private LTE deployment at the Pier marine research facility is transforming coastal research and innovation. This gallery captures the people, technology, and environment behind the effort to extend secure, high-performance wireless connectivity to one of the university’s most remote and ecologically significant locations.
Private Cellular Network Deployment at Frost with Intelligent Handover
Cal Poly’s 5G Innovation Lab is reshaping how buildings are connected. With a private LTE/5G network built into the structure from day one and intelligent handover across CBRS cells, the building delivers seamless coverage where public carriers typically fall short. Students use their own plans and benefit from next-gen connectivity the moment they walk inside.