Mm-wave communications as the foundation for future rail services

PARTNER – The millimetre-wave (mm-wave) range, particularly the 71-86 GHz E-band, is emerging as a foundational technology for train-to-ground (T2G) communications. With 10-gigabit data speed, it goes beyond simply improving passenger internet access: “It enables transformative new services for rail operators and passengers, setting the stage for applications and real-time services that cannot be imagined today.”

With the rapid development of transportation technology, the demand for high-speed, reliable connectivity on trains is increasing, especially in Europe. Despite their utility, traditional wireless solutions such as 4G/5G and 5-6 GHz Wi-Fi face limitations in meeting the growing passenger demand for high-speed internet on board, to name an example. In this vision of the future, mm-wave technology will play a crucial role in T2G connectivity.

What’s important for passengers travelling for work or business is that ultra-fast internet access will allow them to work on trains without losing productive hours while travelling. But the applications of mm-wave do not end there. According to ELVA-1, a specialised company that designs and manufactures millimetre wave components and systems, the technology can significantly contribute to the digitalisation of rail, improving operations and safety.

The advantages for train-to-ground connectivity

The mm-wave range, particularly the 71-86 GHz spectrum, is highly suitable for train-to-ground communications, due to its ability to support high data rates over distances of a few kilometres with minimal interference. The E-band is relatively uncongested, allowing for more efficient data transfer and less signal competition compared to lower frequency bands, ELVA-1 explains.

ELVA-1’s PPC-10G-Rail system takes full advantage of these benefits, the company reports, achieving data rates of up to 10 Gbps per radio, which far exceed the 1Gbps typically offered by 5G and 0.5 Gbps trackside Wi-Fi technologies. This capability is especially valuable for applications that require consistent high-speed data transfer, such as real-time video monitoring from the driver’s cabin, security surveillance, and passenger internet services.

“By utilising mm-wave frequencies, PPC-10G-Rail delivers faster, more reliable data transmission than competing technologies, making it a superior choice for European railways aiming to modernise and enhance their infrastructure”, says Mykhailo Vaitman, CEO of the Estonia-based company.

Some key features of the PPC-10G-Rail system include:

• Full-Duplex 10 Gbps Connectivity: Each train is equipped with dual radios on the head and rear, providing an aggregated bandwidth of up to 20 Gbps. “This high throughput enables smooth, real-time streaming for onboard surveillance and monitoring systems.”
• Zero Handover Delays: “One of the standout aspects of the PPC-10G-Rail is its seamless handover capability, which ensures a zero transition as the train moves from one base station to another. Competing technologies, such as 5G, typically experience brief but noticeable handover delays, which can disrupt video streams and connectivity for hundreds of passengers.”
• Long-Distance Range: The PPC-10G-Rail has a typical range of 2 kilometres between base stations, with a maximum range of up to 4 kilometres on straight track sections. “This allows for fewer installations along the railway, reducing infrastructure costs and simplifying deployment.”

Benefits for Passengers and Rail Operators

The high data rate of ELVA-1’s system has several practical benefits for both rail operators and passengers. “For example, with a consistent 10 Gbps connection, operators can provide high-definition video surveillance across the entire train, ensuring better safety and incident response”. According to Vaitman, “real-time monitoring from the driver’s cabin offers an additional layer of security, allowing rail companies to instantly address any safety concerns.”

For passengers, the PPC-10G-Rail enables an enhanced onboard experience with “fast, stable internet access”. Unlike other systems, where only VIP passengers may have reliable internet due to bandwidth limitations, ELVA-1’s system supports all users, allowing passengers to stream, browse, and connect without interruptions. Vaitman: “This makes it ideal for long-distance, high-speed trains, where quality internet access is an important factor in passenger satisfaction.”

Growing interest

Globally, interest in multi-gigabit mm-wave communications is growing due to the substantial frequency resources and availability of advanced wireless equipment. For example, the PPC-10G-Rail Train-to-Ground Communication System is currently being installed as part of a commercial project and is operational in an underground railway in a city in China. It has also been successfully tested on high-speed railway sections in China and Russia.

The Japanese operator of the Tokaido Shinkansen high-speed railway, additionally, has launched a project to implement 1-gigabit train-to-ground (T2G) communication across its entire route network, spanning more than 500 kilometres. In the U.S, the railway operator Amtrak announced a tender in 2023 for the supply of multi-gigabit train-to-ground technology. This tender follows the unsuccessful launch of a previous 5 GHz T2G communications project. ELVA-1 is participating in this new Amtrak tender.

According to Vaitman, the adoption of the PPC-10G-Rail system by railways signifies a move towards a more connected, secure, and passenger-friendly transportation system. “As demands on rail networks continue to grow, investing in robust, high-capacity systems like ELVA-1’s mm-wave solution will be key to meeting future needs, and support personalised AI entertainment, as well as predictive AI to optimise rail schedules and ensure safety.”