More US WiFi on Trains

The march towards WiFi on trains in the US continues apace as, West Coast company WiFi Rail reports that is has successfully demonstrated its wireless connection systems on San Francisco's underground and over-ground rail networks. According to local news sources, the company launched its technologies in underground tube trains, on normal over-ground rail connections and at four City stations in San Francisco.

WiFi Rail has set up a series of 802.11g access points and installed a system that relies on a single fibre connection to link the access points together. Intriguingly, the system is powered by a solar energy source The company can supply WiFi signals in underground trains using Cisco radios, filters and amplifiers, via a coaxial cable. Above ground WiFi Rail uses a series of pole-mounted radios and antennas which work in conjunction with RF technologies.

In a statement, Cooper Lee, the head of WiFi Rail said of the trial "The design and engineering allow for WiFi Rail networks to provide high-speed mobile WiFi access throughout mass transit environments. These environments include commuter and intercity rail systems, bus and ferry routes, freeways, and others."

The San Francisco trial offers passengers access to wireless broadband at speeds of up to 15Mbps. So far the company says it has had some 6,400 people using its system, which WiFi Rail says is designed for trains moving at speeds of around 65 miles per hour.

WiFi Rail has applied for four patents from its design for wireless railway connectivity.  WiFi Rail is expected to be one of many companies presenting at this year's WiFi on Trains conference in London. For further information, please e-mail Ross.Parsons@BWCS.com