Tunnel vision

The latest technology means that onboard wireless Internet (WiFi) can be used by railway passengers in tunnels. The challenge of consistent connectivity led to the development of Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMax) technology. On the Heathrow Express project, UK, Nomad Digital supplied the on-train equipment and wireless network for instant-access WiFi via mobile hot spots in conjunction with T-Mobile. Roof-mounted shark-fin aerials create the high-speed radio transmission links. Electronics are mounted in custom-built cabinets. WiMax is used in the 6km tunnel section. This can be used over much greater distances than standard WiFi and at higher speeds than 3G.

• Publication Date: 2007

Language

• English

Media Info

• Pagination: 26-7
• Serial:
  • EUROPEAN RAIL OUTLOOK
  • Issue Number: Summer
  • Publisher: Simmons-Boardman Publishing Corporation

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Communication; Communications; Intelligent transportation systems; Internet; Telecommunications; Traveler information and communication systems
• Geographic Terms: United Kingdom
• ITRD Terms: 9098: Communication; 8735: Intelligent transport system; 8585: Internet; 8786: Passenger information; 9117: Telecommunication; 8119: United Kingdom
• Subject Areas: Operations and Traffic Management; I70: Traffic and Transport;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01076128
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Transport Research Laboratory
• Files: ITRD
• Created Date: Sep 18 2007 9:57AM