Wireless device connections

Application area
HUBER+SUHNER can supply components for various wireless connections in trains. These are essentially the following:

1. Wi-Fi for passengers and staff
2. Mobile communication repeater systems
3. Carriage bridging wireless data transmission

1. Wi-Fi for passengers and staff

A wireless network for passengers and staff can be used for a range of applications. The possible examples include on-board ticketing, timetable information, Internet for passengers, etc.

Multiple antennas per access point provide wireless coverage in the train. The main criteria when selecting antennas are the restricted positions available or the desire to provide coverage in certain parts of the train, as well as the demand for the latest MIMO technology.

Solution

• A wide range of compact omni-directional and directional antennas for various installation situations
• Including various connectors and installation methods
• Use of multiple input multiple output technology for higher data rates and greater stability of the wireless network

2. Mobile communication repeater systems

Telephone coverage without dead spots, Internet access using 4G mobile communication, high data transmission rates, national and international network coverage passengers expect all of these today. The direct use of mobile communication networks in trains presents a problem since the design of railway carriages tends to cause significant attenuation of radio waves. The installation of repeater systems with the latest LTE technology now makes it possible to provide fast, reliable mobile communication inside the train.

The mobile communication signal is strengthened from the roof antenna using a repeater and distributed to antennas or emitting cables using cables and splitters.

Solution
Halogen-free RF cables - developed for the railway market:

• Thin, flexible jumper cables for tight radii
• Low-attenuation feeder cables for larger distances

MIMO technology for interior and exterior antennas


3. Carriage bridging wireless data transmission

Data can be transmitted between carriages using antennas rather than cables. This means lower installation and maintenance costs, particularly for retrofitting. Less effort is also required to couple and uncouple the carriage.

The signal is often transmitted from carriage to carriage using Wi-Fi standard 802.11 a/n in the 5 GHz frequency band. This is mainly done to avoid problems between the various communication standards within a train. MIMO antennas also allow larger data volumes to be transmitted.

Solution

• Space-saving directional antennas which can be fitted to the interior of the carriage using a range of installation methods.
• Dust and waterproofed according to IP67 means they are also suitable for outside installation.