A consortium of Siemens Ltd. (Mobility Division) and Nokia Siemens Networks is equipping Melbourne’s metropolitan train network with the latest in world-class, secure digital train radio technology.
Under the turn key contract the existing analogue Urban Train Radio System is being replaced with GSM-R, a digital communications solution that provides secure and exclusive channels between train drivers, train control and ground based operational staff.
Covering approximately 350km of railway tracks within Melbourne, this complete and integrated rail communications solution will see 646 Siemens fixed radios installed in metropolitan trains, more than 1,200 hand portable units made available primarily to drivers, 46 enhanced hand portable units provided to signallers, and 48 PC Dispatcher Consoles installed for train controllers.
Paul Bennett, Vice President of Mobility, Siemens Ltd, explained the benefits. “The Siemens Nokia consortium is delivering a truly innovative, integrated rail communications solution for Melbourne’s metropolitan train network.
“This is the first time GSM-R mobile technology will be introduced to Australia. By incorporating this proven technology with Siemens world-class secure train radio systems, we are delivering the complete rail communications solution for Melbourne.
“Using the GSM–R Train Radio System, a driver will now be able to readily communicate with the controller responsible for overseeing the operation of their specific train, as well as with other drivers. Furthermore, with enhanced location dependent addressing, they will be able to dial out in order to make external telephone calls at any time, and most importantly, to contact other users on the network without having to know their telephone number.
“As the GSM-R mobile network is exclusive to the 350km of metropolitan railway line, it provides exceptionally high reliability and the communication channels are secure.
“Implementation of this technology is a great advancement for Melbourne’s metropolitan railway network.
“Vastly improved communications between train drivers, controllers and signallers ultimately ensures the safe and secure operation of trains on the metropolitan network.”
GSM-R technology is proven and already in place for railway networks in the UK, Switzerland, Sweden, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Finland, India, China and Norway.
GSM networks have been operating in Australia since 1993. GSM-R adds an additional level of functionality to the GSM technology to customise it to the needs of the metropolitan Melbourne railway network. Siemens Ltd. is supplying all the terminal equipment and the technology to interface this equipment with the GSM-R mobile network for the Department of Transport.
Siemens is a world leader in rail communications and integrated, complete mobility solutions. From trains and trams to rail infrastructure such as electrification, communications, control systems and signalling systems, Siemens has a comprehensive range of solutions to enable safe and accessible mobility for Australia and New Zealand.
As well as rail transport, we also offer solutions in airport logistics and postal automation technologies to enable the efficient movement of goods across the region.
Nokia Siemens Networks is partly owned by Siemens AG (Germany). It operates as an independent company. Siemens Ltd. is the Siemens company in Australia and New Zealand.