Broadreach believes in the importance of providing a seamless Wi-Fi experience for passengers and rail staff on station concourses, in lounges and waiting areas, on platforms and on-trains.

Integrated solution
Broadreach supplies an integrated system comprising in-station and on-train components based on proven technology. We tailor our solution to meet the individual needs of the train operator, obtain the necessary approvals and certifications, supervise the installation by rail-qualified contractors, and run the service on the train operator’s behalf.

Diagram showing Wi-Fi routing for on-train and station concourse connectivity (Click to view)

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In-station
We provide public Internet access terminals and Wi-Fi coverage on station concourses, in lounges and waiting areas and on platforms.

Network Rail Case Study

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On-train
Our on-train solution consists of a number of components shown in the diagram below:

	External antennas are installed on the roof of the train so that we can use multiple backhaul technologies (satellite, cellular and trackside Wi-Fi) to maintain a continuous high-speed connection between the train and the Internet.
	Smart router continuously monitors the availability and performance of backhaul from the train. The router then decides minute by minute which combination of satellite, cellular and trackside Wi-Fi links to use to deliver the best possible end user experience.
	On-board server caches web content and outgoing emails, and implements data compression over the backhaul links, to improve the end user experience. It is also capable of storing rich media content (e.g. audio channels, music clips and games for download) for immediate access by passengers.
	Local area networks are installed along the entire length of each train. Wired and wireless inter-car bridging options are available. As well as supporting the hotspot service, the LAN can also be used for on-board communications, video surveillance and train monitoring.
	Wi-Fi hotspots are installed in each carriage to provide Wi-Fi coverage at every seat. The Wi-Fi antennas that we use are robust but discreet.

Virgin Trains Case Study

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