Outline of the DTRS project
Constantly striving for innovative improvements to their infrastructure RailCorp have recently unveiled a $225 million contract to replace their analogue MetroNet train radio system with a state-of- the-art digital product. It is expected that the Digital Train Radio System (DTRS) will provide tangible quality and reliability benefits for on-board train communications.
The fixed network component of the project will be completed in 2012, with the final rolling stock upgrades completed thereafter. The DTRS has an expected design life of at least 15 years.
The DTRS will be a single integrated GSM-R system providing voice and data communications links between RailCorp's network control officers, train crews and operations and maintenance staff throughout the network. The DTRS will also provide interoperability with other users of the network including freight operators.
The GSM-R system is now widely used as a standard by the major European train operators. In Australia, GSM-R has also been chosen by the Government of Victoria for the train network servicing Melbourne.
The system includes:
- a main switching centre.
- a geographically separated back-up switching centre.
- on-train equipment in 675 train cabs
- approximately 280 base stations
- 65 dispatcher terminal units
- portable handheld terminals for staff.
The DTRS will provide radio coverage for more than 1,455 kilometres of the RailCorp electrified network, including 66 tunnels covering 70 kilometres.
RailCorp will provide design and engineering support for DTRS and have created five new positions to facilitate this. In conjunction with Hays, RailCorp are undertaking an extensive national and international campaign to source talented engineers to use their expertise to effectively deliver the design.
