Active Antenna
The Active Antenna is the first 5G edge computing antenna for rail. Developed in collaboration with HUBER+SUHNER, this revolutionary product makes the rollout of 5G applications in trains easier, faster, and cheaper.
Trains need radio-frequency (RF) cables which have a significant impact on cost and performance. The new Active Antenna eliminates the need of RF cables and routers in trains, bringing up to 33% CAPEX savings.
By embedding the radio and computer into the antenna itself, we do not only fix RF problems but also provide up to 4x throughput at the same time.
The Active Antenna also helps reduce emissions from rail communications, supporting the drive towards decarbonisation. The weight saved by replacing multiple RF cables with one ethernet cable significantly reduces fuel consumption. In addition, the heavier materials used for cooling traditional radios are no longer required.
Key benefits
With 5G even more cables will be required for connectivity, so the Active Antenna is preparing the industry for years of savings on costs, environmental impact, and installation efforts.
- No RF cables, routers, splitters.
- Reduced Installation and Maintenance costs with single Power over Ethernet cable to connect
- Increased network bandwidth (up to 400%)
- Fewer antennas per train required, with the same footprint as a standard antenna
- Flexibility of train interior design with active antennas connecting directly to a switch in any carriage
- Environmental Benefits with reduced weight of connectivity equipment