SIEMENS and DAMM have together successfully implemented and tested an open and interoperable Tetra packet data solution which complies with the demands for ETCS (European Train Control System) Level 2. The figure above shows the ETCS-over-TETRA architecture.
The tests were mainly focused on bandwidth requirements and the reliability of data delivery. They were performed according to UNISIG Subset-093 (PS version) – the communication requirement specification for ETCS describing the worst-case conditions for ETCS communication. The picture shows test architecture:
Siemens decided to use packet data as this service provides scalable and sufficient bandwidth for ETCS level 2. Furthermore, unlike circuit-switch service the data are fully interoperable between vendors of a train-borne OBU (onboard unit) and a wayside RBC (radio broadcast centre) along the rail track.
The solution tested provided two dimensions of interoperability. First the interoperability between Tetra vendors who have completed interoperability tests for packet data. Secondly, the interoperability between OBU and wayside RBC vendors secured by the use of standard ETCS L2, which is also specified for GSM-R packet data. Within the solution tested the standard was kept; the main change was the replacement of the GSM-R hardware with TETRA hardware. In this way the SIL (safety integrity level) was kept between both train-borne OBU and wayside RBC.
Results of these tests have proven that data transmission quality in both directions was always above requirements of the standard and that TETRA delivered equal or even better results than a GSM-R system.
“Thanks to the easy integration based on a pure IP interface and the longer life time expectation of TETRA systems, this solution can be beneficial or be an alternative, wherever GSM-R is not mandatory due to authority regulations,” explained Sven Hagenbuck, responsible for Siemens Mobility sales in Australia.
DAMM and SIEMENS are proud of the achieved results. In order to receive more information about the benefits of ETCS over TETRA packet data please contact SIEMENS or DAMM.
Siemens Mobility is a separately managed company of Siemens AG. As a leader in transport solutions for more than 160 years, Siemens Mobility is constantly innovating its portfolio in its core areas of rolling stock, rail automation and electrification, turnkey systems, intelligent traffic systems as well as related services. With digitalization, Siemens Mobility is enabling mobility operators worldwide to make infrastructure intelligent, increase value sustainably over the entire lifecycle, enhance passenger experience and guarantee availability. In fiscal year 2017, which ended on September 30, 2017, the former Siemens Mobility Division posted revenue of €8.1billion and had around 28,400 employees worldwide. Further information is available at: www.siemens.com/mobility
Contact for journalists:
Kara Evanko
Phone: +1 202 285 3072; E-mail: kara.evanko@siemens.com
About DAMM Cellular Systems
DAMM is a world-leading provider of scalable, flexible and user-friendly digital radio infrastructure systems to industrial, commercial and public safety customers. Built for the future of critical communications, the DAMM MultiTech Platform enables voice and data communication across technologies, including TETRA, TEDS, DMR and Analog in one single system. With over 35 years of experience in critical radio and broadband communication, we take the lead through superior engineering and a constant focus on customer needs and reduced complexity. To find out more about DAMM or any aspect of our solutions or services, visit www.damm.dk or follow us on LinkedIn.
For further information about DAMM, please contact:
Torben Østerby, Key Account Manager
E-mail: toe@damm.dk
Jochen Bösch, Head of Support & Product Management
E-mail: jbh@damm.dk
