Global System for Mobile Communications – Railway (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 which were widely being used previously. It is based on European Integrated Railway Radio Enhanced Network (EIRENE) – Mobile Radio for Railways Networks in Europe (MORANE) specifications

GSM-R offers the highest level of interoperability in accordance with EIRENE. It also 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, it is an integral component of the (European Rail Traffic Management System) ERTMS. It provides substantial benefits by providing continuous flow of information to on-board computers for calculating speeds and braking profiles

GSM-R enables higher train speeds (assures performance at speeds up to 310 mph (500 km/h) without any communication loss) and traffic density with a high level of safety by carrying the 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) enabling significant improvement of reliability, security and safety of rail services. It is also used for various other kinds of applications like cargo tracking, passenger information systems, video surveillance etc.

GSM-R status

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. It is a part of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) standard. The specifications were finalised in the year 2000, basis the European Union funded MORANE (Mobile Radio for Railways Networks in Europe) project.

GSM-R Technology

The radio sub system of the GSM-R network is typically implemented using base transceiver stations and communication towers with antennas which are placed close to the rail track with intervals of 7-15 km. The same is 3-5 km in China to ensure higher availability and reliability. GSM-R has to satisfy tight availability and performance requirements of the HSR radio services

Through GSM-R, trains have a constant circuit switched digital modem connection to their respective train control centre. The trains will automatically stop if the modem connection is lost. The enhanced Multi-Level Precedence and Pre-emption service (eMLPP) provides different levels of precedence for call set-up and for continuity in case of handover, thereby giving trains a greater priority compared to normal users.