Digital Train Radio System Kingsgrove BTS Site Review of ...

1 Introduction
1.1 Background to the Project
RailCorp currently operates an analogue train radio system known as MetroNet for operational
communications between signallers and train drivers. This system has reached the end of its
serviceable life and requires replacement. The New South Wales Government and RailCorp
have begun work on the implementation of a Digital Train Radio System (DTRS) which will
replace this analogue system and address a number of recommendations from the Waterfall
Special Commission of Inquiry (WSCOI).
The primary objectives of the DTRS project are to:
Provide continuous radio coverage 100% radio of RailCorp‘s electric network;
Replace and improve on the current RailCorp MetroNet communications system;
Provide a technology platform for the introduction of an Automatic Train Protection system
(ATP); and
Adopt best management and administrative practices while complying with the principles of
ecologically sustainable development.
The DTRS will provide secure and reliable voice and data communications via a Global
Systems Mobile – Railway (GSM-R) platform. It will be used by train controllers, train drivers,
train guards and signallers. The system is designed to allow for growth in both the size of the
network and the number of services using it. It will be compatible with communications systems
used by other users of the network, e.g. freight operators.
The DTRS will provide 100% radio coverage along approximately 1455 kilometres of the
RailCorp electrified network as well as more than 60 tunnels covering approximately 70
kilometres and has an expected design life of at least 15 years.
The DTRS will include:
A main switching centre at a CBD location;
A geographically separated back-up switching centre at Homebush;
On-train equipment in approximately 675 train cabs;
About 250 base transceiver stations (BTS) as well as other base stations in tunnels;
Approximately 65 dispatcher terminal units; and
Capability to provide staff with handheld terminals.
The DTRS will provide continuous coverage along the entire RailCorp electrified network for ontrain
radios and permit at least 14 simultaneous voice calls from each base station.
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