Alstom and Huawei to test first LTE 4G for CBTC
The company says it is ready to start test running at its Valenciennes test centre in northern France with its Urbalis communications-based train control (CBTC) and Huawei's LTE 4G telecommunications system.
The trial will involve a metro train fitted with LTE-compliant onboard equipment while Huawei is providing the LTE trackside network. The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding in April to work together on the project, and Alstom expects to be able to supply LTE technology integrated with CBTC by end of the year.
LTE is able to provide mission-critical voice communication, secure train signalling as part of a CBTC installation, and broadband data communication to allow live video streaming from CCTV cameras and more comprehensive passenger information.
