New tech may finally make spotty Wi-Fi on trains a thing of the past


27 Feb 2020

Image: © Sushiman/Stock.adobe.com

Researchers believe their new antenna can help overcome the issue of poor Wi-Fi connectivity on trains.

University researchers believe that they have developed new technology to help stop passengers losing internet connections on trains. Academics at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh have designed a flat panel antenna that connects to satellites in space to maintain connectivity while on the move.

The university said the prototype is expected to enter field trials before the end of this year with a major rail operator.

Research engineer Samuel Rotenberg, who helped design the antenna, said: “Poor connectivity on journeys is one of the leading frustrations of passengers globally. Today’s users are used to fibre-optic superfast broadband, with 4G connectivity seen as the minimum standard. Yet, on the move, our connectivity is patchy and continually interrupted.

“Cities provide continuous connectivity using a large network of antennas. However, there are fewer placed in rural areas, especially along railway tracks, which results in the signal being lost.”

Not just for train Wi-Fi

He continued: “However, extending the ground network to improve access in rural area is expensive and unreliable for transportation. Antennas for satellite communication are, in the main, large, heavy, bulky and dish shaped, so aren’t aerodynamic and are impractical for high-speed trains to carry.

“Our research has developed a flat panel antenna which will communicate with satellites throughout a journey, without loss of connectivity. It’s fairly lightweight, at a fraction of the cost of existing solutions, and will provide global coverage.

“Its design specifications mean it could also be adapted for the internet of things and aircraft as they fly in the middle of the ocean.”

He said that using satellites would mean connectivity is “seamless” for all passengers, regardless of the number trying to connect.

Funders of the project include the European Space Agency, the UK Department for Transport and Scottish Enterprise.

– PA Media