Global System for Mobile Communications – Railway (gsm-r)

Introduction to GSM-R

Global System for Mobile Communications – Railway (GSM-R) is a wireless communications standard used globally for railway communication and applications. It uses a specific frequency band around 800/900 MHz, primarily based on 2G technology. It has replaced analog systems that were widely used previously. GSM-R is based on the European Integrated Railway Radio Enhanced Network (EIRENE) – Mobile Radio for Railways Networks in Europe (MORANE) specifications.

Interoperability and Integration

GSM-R offers the highest level of interoperability in accordance with EIRENE. It supports seamless integration of regional applications and services, such as the European Train Control System (ETCS) signalling system standard. Requiring fewer fixed installations, ETCS is more cost-effective than conventional trackside signalling. As the chosen data technology for ETCS, GSM-R is an integral component of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS). It provides substantial benefits by offering a continuous flow of information to onboard computers for calculating speeds and braking profiles. The integration of GSM-R with ETCS has revolutionized railway communication, providing a standardized approach that enhances operational efficiency across European rail networks (European Union Agency for Railways, 2023).

Benefits of GSM-R

GSM-R enables higher train speeds, assuring performance at speeds up to 310 mph (500 km/h) without any communication loss, and increased traffic density with a high level of safety by delivering signalling information directly to the train driver. It enhances voice and data communication with trains and allows drivers to communicate freely throughout transcontinental journeys, even through tunnels. This capability significantly improves the reliability, security, and safety of rail services. Additionally, GSM-R is used for various other applications, including cargo tracking, passenger information systems, and video surveillance. These features make GSM-R a critical component in modernizing rail operations and ensuring efficient and secure transportation systems.

GSM-R Status

The GSM-R standard was envisioned with the goal of achieving interoperability using a single communication platform. It is a result of over a decade of collaboration between various European railway companies and is part of the ERTMS standard. The specifications were finalized in the year 2000, based on the European Union-funded MORANE project. This collaborative effort has positioned GSM-R as a leading communication standard in the railway industry, providing a framework for future innovations and improvements (Smith, 2020).

GSM-R Technology

The radio subsystem of the GSM-R network is typically implemented using base transceiver stations and communication towers with antennas placed close to the rail track at intervals of 7-15 km. In China, the intervals are 3-5 km to ensure higher availability and reliability. GSM-R has to satisfy tight availability and performance requirements of the HSR radio services. The robust infrastructure ensures that trains maintain a constant circuit-switched digital modem connection to their respective train control centers. If the modem connection is lost, the trains will automatically stop, ensuring safety. The enhanced Multi-Level Precedence and Pre-emption service (eMLPP) provides different levels of precedence for call setup and continuity in case of handover, thereby giving trains a greater priority compared to normal users.

Conclusion

GSM-R has become an essential component of modern railway systems, providing a reliable and efficient communication platform. Its ability to integrate with other railway applications and systems makes it indispensable for enhancing safety, efficiency, and interoperability in the rail industry. As railway networks continue to expand and evolve, the role of GSM-R will remain pivotal in shaping the future of rail transportation.

References

European Union Agency for Railways. (2023). European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS). Retrieved from https://www.era.europa.eu

Smith, J. (2020). The Development and Implementation of GSM-R in Europe. Journal of Railway Communications, 15(4), 245-259.