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Nomad Digital Enables Live
CCTV Communications for Capitol Corridor
Other Topics: IPTV Games,
IPTV Profit Revenue,
HD Optical Media
WEBITPR
February 8, 2007
London, UK, and Oakland, CA -- Nomad Digital, providers of
specialist mobility networks, completed a successful demonstration
of the first US wireless closed circuit television (CCTV)
communication from on-board a passenger train, using WiMAX as the
backhaul, for the Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority (CCJPA).
The proof of concept (POC) was conducted on a moving train on
Saturday, 3 February 2007, and the uninterrupted high-speed
communication was enabled by Nomad's unique wireless technology.
Jim Allison, Principal Planner, CCJPA commented: "We set up very
high thresholds in terms of bandwidth and applications to be tested
on the system and are pleased to see that the results exceeded those
thresholds. We wanted a simulated safety and security test with
video to and from the train, and test additional operational and
passenger applications. With the successful test using Nomad
Digital's system we are confident that there is a system out there
that meets our operational and customer needs." |
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The success of the
demonstration, conducted by Nomad Digital, proves that aside from
enabling rail operators to upgrade their safety and security
systems, the technology also allows them to achieve improved
operational efficiency through real-time ticket transactions, train
diagnostic data, food sales and inventory and other miscellaneous
communications. In addition, train operators will be able to
increase passenger ridership and improve passengers' experience on
board trains by offering wireless DSL, enabling them to utilise
seamless broadband connection for all Internet applications.
Nigel Wallbridge, Chairman and Joint-Founder, Nomad Digital,
comments: "We have just made a 'killer application' a reality! This
POC demonstration shows the extensive capabilities that our cutting
edge technology can bring to the railway community worldwide."
Nomad is already established in providing advanced WiFi services on
board trains across the UK and North America. Prestigious contract
wins in 2006 with Virgin Trains and the Heathrow Express have helped
establish Nomad Digital's global footprint. Already 2007 has seen
the opening of Nomad's global headquarters in Newcastle (UK) and its
expansion into Asia.
Test Methodology
The POC was conducted for Capitol Corridor. A CCTV camera was
installed at trackside near a train station and used WiMAX
technology for connectivity to the train. CCTV video, streamed from
the trackside to the train, proved to be of sufficient quality to be
used for general safety measurements. In addition trackside CCTV, in
particular images from dangerous grade level crossings, forwarded
straight to the train engineer, allowed him to anticipate any
potential obstructions on the track prior to reaching the actual
station.
In the other direction - from the train to the shore - CCTV video
stream could be sent to the management centre, and in case of danger
situations, law enforcement agencies would be able to react in a
timely fashion. The total bandwidth demonstrated during the trial
was sufficient for CCTV and the other applications CCJPA/BART is
envisioning to use on their trains.
About Nomad Digital (www.nomadrail.com)
UK based Nomad Digital is a privately owned company which was formed
in early 2002 by Graeme Lowdon and Nigel Wallbridge. Nomad Digital
is focused on the provision of specialty mobility networks and was
first company in UK to trial WiFi on board trains. Nomad has
developed the world's first deployment of a communication system to
trains using IEEE802.16 (WiMax) and is the largest operator of a
pre-WiMax network in the UK.
About Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority
Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority (CCJPA) manages the service
with the assistance of the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit
District (BART), who provides the day-to-day management staff. In
partnership with the CCJPA, Amtrak operates and supports the trains
and feeder bus service.
The Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority partners with Amtrak,
Union Pacific Railroad, Caltrans and the collective communities
comprising the CCJPA to continue development of a cost-effective,
viable and safe intercity passenger rail service. For information,
visit www.capitolcorridor.org. |
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