Challenges:

  • To provide each train with data transfer connectivity of not less than 600 Mbps at any point in time;
  • Ensure uninterrupted connection at speeds of up to 200 km per hour for trains with data transfer remaining constant in tunnels and repair depot;
  • Keeping cost as low as possible by installing reduced form-factor wireless devices externally on the carriages.

Solution:

  • A state of art train-to-ground technology which fully meets the requirements of the train operator;
  • Wireless nodes were installed every 20 km along the existing optical fibre infrastructure;
  • Base stations were installed externally every 2-4 km along the railway tracks;
  • Every carriage was fitted with small form factor wireless terminals and antennas providing uninterrupted connection all along the train journeys.

Benefits:

  • Network speeds achieved up to 350+ Mbps for every train;
  • High reliability of the links;
  • Very low latency;
  • Provision of additional revenue-generating services;
  • Small form factor and low wind load of the external units made it ideal for installing on carriages.

Applications:

  • Metro/Rail Operations:
    • Real-time Operation data
    • 24/7 Maintenance data
    • Remote configuration /Diagnostic
    • Communication for staff
    • Asset Tracking (over GPS)
    • Passenger Counting
    • PA / Intercom
  • Security & Surveillance 
    • CCTV/Wi-Fi Camera/IP/Camera
    • Level crossing monitoring
    • Equipment Intrusion
    • Incident Analysis
    • On-line virtual Black Box
    • Emergency Intercom
  • Passengers
    • Passenger Information System
    • Internet-on-Board
    • Entertainment
    • Media Content Platform
    • At-seat Audio
    • Wi-Fi calling

Seamless Handover Principles

  • Base Stations coverage zones intersect each other
  • Each train has two CPE Radios: the one on the front and the second on the back
  • Base Stations and CPEs provide redundant connections forcing at least one live wireless link all the time
  • Unique transport protocol MINT has the capability to work with multiple paths to optimize data flow using all available connections
  • Therefore MINT guarantees utilization of the best connection all the time no matter how frequent the reconnection of CPE’s between Base Stations

Interference Mitigation

Train-to-Ground solution complies with 802.11 physical layer (PHY) while implementing mandatory improvements to enable extended range,
enhanced capacity and fast handover
The enhancements include:

  • Automatic adaptive rate
  • Advanced FEC
  • Advanced Fast ARQ
  • Non interrupted transmission
  • Auto MIMO Diversity selection
  • Directional Antennas
  • QoS Over the Air

For Further Information

Please Contact Us for product datasheet , application note, success stories and request for a quote.