Ceva Introduces 5G-NTN Modem IP for Satellite User Terminals

Modem architecture for satellite-based 5G connectivity
In satellite communications, telecommunications infrastructure, and semiconductor development, the integration of 5G non-terrestrial networks (5G-NTN) is enabling direct connectivity between terrestrial devices and satellite constellations. These systems extend cellular coverage to remote regions and support new applications in mobility, IoT and broadband access.

Ceva has introduced PentaG-NTN, a modem IP subsystem designed for satellite user terminals operating with low-Earth orbit (LEO) and medium-Earth orbit (MEO) constellations. The subsystem is based on the company’s third-generation PentaG modem IP platform, a 5G-Advanced baseband architecture integrating hardware, L1 PHY software and verification assets into a reusable subsystem for modem development.

Addressing modem complexity in 5G-NTN systems
The rapid growth of satellite constellations and government-supported connectivity initiatives is accelerating the integration of 5G standards into space-based communication networks. However, this evolution introduces cellular modem development challenges into an industry traditionally focused on spacecraft design and constellation management.

The modem subsystem is designed to simplify the integration of 5G-NTN capabilities for satellite operators, constellation developers and semiconductor companies, allowing them to integrate standardized cellular connectivity without developing a modem architecture entirely in-house.

By providing a pre-validated subsystem architecture, the platform aims to reduce development complexity, shorten design cycles and mitigate integration risks for satellite communication systems.

Features designed for satellite network conditions
Satellite user terminals must operate under conditions that differ significantly from terrestrial cellular networks. These include Doppler shifts caused by fast-moving satellites, timing offsets and long propagation delays.

The modem subsystem incorporates several functions designed for these operational conditions, including:

These capabilities enable the modem to operate across a range of satellite communication scenarios, from broadband connectivity to specialized communication systems.

Architecture designed for integration and differentiation
The subsystem combines hardware accelerators, programmable digital signal processors and flexible software interfaces, enabling system developers to integrate proprietary communication technologies alongside the standard 5G-NTN functionality.

This architecture allows satellite terminal manufacturers to incorporate custom algorithms, waveform enhancements or application-specific optimizations while relying on a validated modem baseband platform.

A complete modem subsystem for faster deployment
Rather than providing individual IP blocks, the modem is delivered as a complete modem subsystem including:

These tools enable early validation of system behavior and software functionality before silicon implementation, improving development predictability and shortening time-to-deployment.

According to Ceva, the third-generation PentaG platform can reduce modem silicon development time by approximately 65 %, while also reducing development costs compared with traditional modem design approaches.

Platform for satellite and terrestrial 5G-Advanced applications
The PentaG modem architecture supports FR1 (sub-7 GHz) and FR2 (24–52 GHz) frequency ranges, including mmWave operation, and can scale up to 400 MHz bandwidth per component carrier.

In addition to satellite connectivity, the same platform also supports terrestrial 5G-Advanced edge and IoT applications through a derivative subsystem known as PentaG-Edge.

Both modem subsystems are available for licensing and will be presented at Mobile World Congress 2026, Barcelona (2–5 March), at the Ceva booth.

www.ceva-ip.com