Flexible Antenna Solutions for Trains
Trains and Railroads need Critical, time-sensitive data to be communicated over multiple technologies. These technologies include licensed Cellular channels, unlicensed WiFi, and ISM bands. Coverage for specialized rail frequencies such as the 220 MHz band is also essential.
Wireless connectivity has become increasingly important for passenger trains, Trams, and commercial freight trains. The push to implement Positive Train Control (PTC) is just one aspect of the wireless evolution taking place in the rail industry.
Providing wireless connections can be a challenge. User expectations are high, and network infrastructures will be pushed to the limit. Mobile Mark’s wide range of antennas can help you prepare for it all.
Passenger Cars & Rail Vehicles
PTC (Positive Train Control)
Rail Wayside Infrastructure
Related Resources for Trains
The Most Advanced PTC Network Antenna Design
Mobile Mark offers antennas that keep you connected when communication is critical. As a trusted antenna manufacturer since 1984, Mobile Mark has established a track record for high performance and quality service. Review the specialized product lines listed below for more information and specifications.
We provide a quick response for both engineering advice and sales support for Passenger Trains, Trams & Commercial Freight antenna design. Give us a call toll-free at 800-648-2800 or send an email to info@mobilemark.com.
Wayside Track Antennas
Wayside wireless systems rely on multiple wireless technologies to track trains as they cover long distances between train stations. Mobile Mark’s site antenna solutions provide a range of coverage patterns and can communicate on different frequency bands. Some antenna solutions will cover stand-alone frequency bands and others will incorporate multiple antennas within a single antenna package. Custom design solutions can be developed for unique wayside situations. GPS Timing sensors are often incorporated to provide precise timing.
Onboard Passenger Services
It is a given that today’s train riders want to stay connected wirelessly, and more passenger trains are offering WiFi On-board. WiFi reliability has to be a priority because nothing turns a new service into a frustration faster than dropped wireless connection. Mobile Mark offers a number of MIMO (multiple-input-multiple-output) antennas for 802.11n or 802.11ac that can be mounted in the ceilings or walls of the passenger train compartment. We also offer tailored antenna solutions that provide bi-directional coverage.
Specialized Frequency
In addition to Positive Train Control at 220 MHz, some railroad companies are using commercially available networks, such as Cellular, to transmit critical information. Others are using unlicensed networks with short range coverage, such as WiFi or ISM at 433 MHz and 915 MHz, and still others are using privately licensed bands such as the 3.65 GHz band. RFID solutions are being implemented to read passenger fare cards on trams.
Train Management
Communications are not limited to train-to-train or train-to-station networks. Wireless is being used to monitor the condition of the train itself. Onboard train telemetry is critical to keeping trains running smoothly by detecting problems while they are still small and fixable and before they become a hazard. Sensors placed in critical junctures need to be read and the data transmitted to a central location. Multiple wireless technologies come in to play, typically ISM, WiFi and Cellular.
Positive Train Control
PTC or Positive Train Control is mandated by law in the US. Many rail companies are well on their way to implementing PTC on their moving stock and rail lines, while others are earlier in the process. Mobile Mark offers several antenna solutions for PTC at 220 MHz, including both site and mobile antennas. These antennas need to be electrically efficient and mechanically sound to stand up to the demands of railway communications.