Rail company invests in improved wireless access

Daniel Thomas, Computing 01 Dec 2005

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Virgin Trains has installed devices on its trains to provide business passengers with improved access to corporate data via 3G mobile networks.

The train operator has signed a deal with mobile phone operator Orange to install the on-train repeater devices, that link to a distributed network of antennae in carriages. Virgin has installed the technology on Virgin Voyager trains, which operate on its CrossCountry and North Wales routes, following a six-month trial conducted by Orange.

The technology overcomes interference from train carriages and obstructive materials, found in train windows, which can slow down network connectivity and data transfer. It will be rolled out to Virgin’s Pendolino trains by mid-2007.

Virgin Trains is also working with Orange to technically test how it can install wireless internet on trains.

Commercial trials of WiFi will begin on West Coast Pendolino trains in April. The company will then put the contract out for commercial tender later next year.

In the past, Virgin Trains worked with WiFi operators Broadreach and QinetiQ Rail to test public wireless internet services on its trains. Rival operators GNER and First Great Western are also testing wireless access on trains and in stations.