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Nomad Digital Enables Live CCTV
Communications for Capitol Corridor
Other topics: HSPA Mobile Broadband
Deployments, WiMAX Network Sweden
February 8, 2007
London and Oakland, California - Nomad Digital, providers of
specialist mobility networks, completed a successful demonstration of
the first US wireless closed circuit television (CCTV) communication
from on-board a passenger train, using WiMAX as the backhaul, for the
Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority (CCJPA). The proof of concept (POC)
was conducted on a moving train on Saturday, 3 February 2007, and the
uninterrupted high-speed communication was enabled by Nomad's unique
wireless technology. |
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Jim Allison, Principal
Planner, CCJPA commented: "We set up very high thresholds in terms of
bandwidth and applications to be tested on the system and are pleased to
see that the results exceeded those thresholds. We wanted a simulated
safety and security test with video to and from the train, and test
additional operational and passenger applications. With the successful
test using Nomad Digital's system we are confident that there is a
system out there that meets our operational and customer needs."
The success of the demonstration, conducted by Nomad Digital, proves
that aside from enabling rail operators to upgrade their safety and
security systems, the technology also allows them to achieve improved
operational efficiency through real-time ticket transactions, train
diagnostic data, food sales and inventory and other miscellaneous
communications. In addition, train operators will be able to increase
passenger ridership and improve passengers' experience on board trains
by offering wireless DSL, enabling them to utilise seamless broadband
connection for all Internet applications.
Nigel Wallbridge, Chairman and Joint-Founder, Nomad Digital, comments:
"We have just made a 'killer application' a reality! This POC
demonstration shows the extensive capabilities that our cutting edge
technology can bring to the railway community worldwide."
Nomad is already established in providing advanced WiFi services on
board trains across the UK and North America. Prestigious contract wins
in 2006 with Virgin Trains and the Heathrow Express have helped
establish Nomad Digital's global footprint. Already 2007 has seen the
opening of Nomad's global headquarters in Newcastle (UK) and its
expansion into Asia.
Test Methodology
The POC was conducted for Capitol Corridor. A CCTV camera was installed
at trackside near a train station and used WiMAX technology for
connectivity to the train. CCTV video, streamed from the trackside to
the train, proved to be of sufficient quality to be used for general
safety measurements. In addition trackside CCTV, in particular images
from dangerous grade level crossings, forwarded straight to the train
engineer, allowed him to anticipate any potential obstructions on the
track prior to reaching the actual station.
In the other direction - from the train to the shore - CCTV video stream
could be sent to the management centre, and in case of danger
situations, law enforcement agencies would be able to react in a timely
fashion. The total bandwidth demonstrated during the trial was
sufficient for CCTV and the other applications CCJPA/BART is envisioning
to use on their trains. |
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