Digi IX40: A 5G Edge Computing Powerhouse for Industrial IoT

Posted by Amanda Reed on Oct 16th 2025

Digi IX40: A 5G Edge Computing Powerhouse for Industrial IoT

In the world of Industry 4.0, the demand for resilient, high-speed, and edge-capable connectivity has never been greater. The Digi IX40 answers this demand as a next generation 5G edge computing industrial router. When paired with precision RF solutions from AG Antenna, it unlocks powerful capabilities for industrial IoT, remote management, and machine-to-machine (M2M) networks, bringing compute intelligence right to the network edge.


Built for Resilient Cellular Connectivity

At its core, the Digi IX40 delivers 5G NR and LTE-Advanced Pro connectivity in two model variations:

  • IX40-05: 5G NSA/SA + LTE Cat 19
  • IX40-04: LTE Cat 12 + 3G fallback

Both options feature dual SIM slots and integrated VRRP+ and SureLink® failover mechanisms for uninterrupted WAN service. These models support global cellular bands including n1–n79, CBRS (n48), and Cat 19 LTE bands—critical for applications requiring spectrum agility across private and public networks.


Edge Compute Engine with Containerized Intelligence

The IX40 is more than just a cellular router, it’s a compute platform. Powered by a quad-core NXP i.MX 8M Plus processor and a built-in 2.3 TOPS NPU, the device supports containerized edge applications via Digi Containers and the Digi Accelerated Linux (DAL OS).

This means local ML inference, Python scripts, or edge processing pipelines can be deployed directly at the device level, reducing latency, lowering cloud dependency, and enabling real-time decision making.


Industrial-Grade Interfaces and Expandability

Designed for harsh industrial environments, the IX40 offers extensive physical interfaces:

  • 4x RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet (configurable LAN/WAN)
  • 2x SFP Fiber Uplinks for secure optical backhaul
  • Serial Port (RS-232/422/485) for legacy industrial integration
  • Analog & Digital I/O for PLCs, sensors, and automation logic
  • GNSS Support with integrated GPS/GLONASS/BeiDou/Galileo

These interfaces allow the IX40 to function as a full-fledged industrial controller and gateway for M2M applications, traffic management, or smart grid deployments.


Security and Software Intelligence Built In

Security is non-negotiable at the edge, and Digi addresses this with TrustFence®, its embedded security framework. This includes:

  • Secure boot and encrypted storage
  • Hardware port disabling and authentication
  • VPN support (IPsec, OpenVPN, GRE)
  • Deep packet inspection, firewalling, and dynamic DNS
  • VLAN, QoS, and traffic shaping for secure multi-tenant environments

The Digi Remote Manager® (Digi RM) platform provides centralized cloud-based device management, OTA firmware upgrades, container orchestration, and real-time diagnostics—critical for large-scale industrial rollouts.


Ruggedized for Harsh Environments

The IX40 is purpose-built for industrial deployment with:

  • Operating temp: −40 °C to +75 °C
  • Power input: 12–30 VDC via terminal block
  • Low power draw: ~3.5 W idle, ~8 W peak
  • Enclosure: IP30-rated with DIN rail mounting

Whether it’s installed in manufacturing plants, traffic cabinets, or remote utility sites, the IX40 holds up under pressure and delivers uptime where it matters most.


Applications in Action

The Digi IX40 thrives in:

  • Smart Cities & Infrastructure: Edge processing for traffic flow, environmental sensors
  • Industrial Automation: SCADA systems, robotics, PLC gateway integration
  • Utilities & Energy: Condition monitoring, substation communication
  • Transportation: Smart traffic systems, roadside edge nodes
  • Private Networks: CBRS and international private 5G with edge container support

These use cases demand not just connectivity, but real-time intelligence and high antenna performance—areas where AG Antenna brings added value.


Enhancing Performance with AG Antenna Solutions

AG Antenna complements the IX40 with RF-optimized antennas designed for industrial and edge deployments. Our offerings include:

  • 5G/CBRS Cellular Antennas supporting band n48, n77, n78, and n79
  • High-Isolation MIMO Arrays for multi-port diversity and reduced interference
  • Active GNSS Antennas for accurate geo-time data and fleet sync
  • Custom Cable Assemblies using AGA-series coax (AGA400, AGA240, etc.)

Whether the deployment calls for high-gain directional antennas or compact low-profile omnis, AG Antenna ensures optimal SWR, gain, and placement based on your IX40 configuration and RF environment.

See all antennas solutions from AG Antenna for the DIGI IX40 Router

See antenna port guide for the DIGI IX40 Router


What This Means for You

The Digi IX40 is a next-gen 5G edge gateway purpose-built for Industry 4.0, and when paired with AG Antenna’s performance-engineered RF solutions, it becomes a complete platform for reliable, scalable, and secure industrial IoT. From smart infrastructure to factory automation and beyond, the IX40 with AG Antenna ensures connectivity isn’t just available, it’s optimized.

Explore the Power of Digi Router + AG Antenna integrations today at AGAntenna.com