Train broadband network upgrade announced
Train broadband network upgrade announced
A new scheme to improve broadband signals on board the UK’s rail network aims to improve connectivity for seven out of ten travellers by 2019.
The targets and deadlines were set by Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin, who announced details of the scheme. Network Rail will lead on the initiative with help and funding from industry partners. It aims to have the first improvements in place within two years.
Mr McLoughlin said: “There are few things more frustrating than trying to phone a friend or access the internet, only to be thwarted by bad signal. Passengers deserve to have the best mobile technology, and that is why I am pleased that industry is coming together to make that a reality.”
He unveiled the plan during the Conservative Party conference in Manchester, where he said the new rail connections would be quicker than many home broadband speeds. The scheme aims wipe out black spots and create a mobile broadband network with speeds of 50Mbps.
However, the Government has not released many details about the technology that will be used in the improvement package. Network Rail told Computer Weekly that it would work with mobile network companies on the best solutions to the problem. Train operators are also expected to be included in the discussions.
The plan will require a major upgrade of Network Rail’s fibre optics running beside train lines, while the train companies will need to invest in equipment to boost signals within the train carriages.
Ernest Doku, telecoms expert from uSwitch.com, said: "According to our research, 70 per cent of British commuters now use smartphones and/or tablets on their daily commutes, so high-speed mobile internet can’t come soon enough.
"But, as yet, there is no detail about pricing. With rail fares growing annually at alarming rates, this service needs to be competitively priced to be useful."
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