How is HUBER+SUHNER supporting the transition to FRMCS?

FRMCS systems will soon replace GSM-R, yet in many countries, rollouts of the latter are still underway. During the transition period, new antenna types are required to offer GSM-R services, while providing the infrastructure for future FRMCS applications. 

To best support our clients, HUBER+SUHNER has launched new trackside antennas to aid this GSM-R to FRMCS transition. The first type of the new SENCITY® SC Panel trackside antenna portfolio is a GSM-R only model, which operates in the 900 MHz frequency band. 

The second type is a dual-band GSM-R/FRMCS antenna which expands our offerings, supporting both 900 MHz and 1900 MHz frequency bands in a single housing. This allows operators and installers to manage the transition effectively. Despite the added frequency support, this antenna retains the geometry and e.g., has the same wind load properties as the GSM-R only model. 

Using this dual band type for current GSM-R (900 MHz) rollouts ensures future compatibility for the introduction of FRMCS (1900 MHz) without requiring hardware replacements. Due to wind constraints for FRMCS rollouts, it’s often the case that no additional antennas can be installed, but the dual band antenna can effectively maintain existing sites.

Full FRMCS 1900 MHz coverage will be achieved by adding additional sites to cope with the higher attenuation required due to wave propagation. Our new portfolio is planned with this in mind, and HUBER+SUHNER will soon offer standalone FRMCS 1900 MHz antennas. 

The main operation along the tracks is achieved through narrow beam antennas with 33° HPBW (Half Power Beamwidth). Antennas with a wider beamwidth of 65° HPBW will also be added to the portfolio for additional requirements.

SENCITY® SC Panel antennas are designed for train-to-ground, trackside critical communication networks, empowering our customers to plan a seamless transition to FRMCS with a trusted partner in the Railway industry – HUBER + SUHNER. 

We are committed to offering comprehensive solutions that support every stage of the GSM-R to FRMCS transition. Our focus is on delivering the most reliable and adaptable rail solutions to help our customers during this crucial migration.