Light rail stations are a type of passenger rail-based transit that is generally implemented in urban areas and operates in routes which typically have exclusive rights-of-way. This mode of transportation offers numerous advantages to passengers and operators alike. There are numerous benefits of light rail systems, including more efficient transport and the ability to collect large amounts of accurate data. In order to achieve such benefits, an industrial networking system that facilitates reliable, real-time communication is essential. To learn more about how light rail stations utilize industrial networking, continue reading.

Connecting Components

Light rail stations are composed of several different devices and components which all must be seamlessly connected to facilitate efficient data transfer. An industrial network infrastructure facilitates this necessary connection through its ability to satisfy the Ethernet, serial, fiber optic, and wireless needs of edge-level network connections. As a result, an industrial network infrastructure can successfully connect essential light rail components such as crosswalks, PA systems, message display signs, automated ticketing kiosks, displays, train status, and cameras.

Providing Redundancy and Resisting Broken Connections

In addition to simply providing a connection between various components, an industrial network infrastructure will ensure that the connection is secure and won’t get broken. Light rail systems are exposed to several environmental challenges such as electromagnetic interference, heavy vibration, and a wide range of temperature and humidity levels. Such challenges can increase the potential for lost connections.

Even a single failure within one segment of the infrastructure can have a rippling effect which results in delays that reduce the reliability and efficiency of the light rail system. As such, a robust network backbone is essential. For this reason, one of the most critical components of a light rail system is the robust industrial network infrastructure which can greatly reduce the potential for lost connection, instead facilitating a redundant network that allows for 24/7 operation.

Facilitating Real-Time Communication

Another way that light rail stations utilize industrial networking is to facilitate real-time communication. In light rail systems, data from all edge devices must be communicated in real-time to all outside areas that may come into contact with the light rail system such as traffic intersections or other stations. As such, the real-time data transmission capabilities of industrial networking equipment are essential.

Remote Monitoring

Remote monitoring is another example of how industrial networking is utilized in light rail stations. Industrial networking equipment such as Antaira’s managed industrial Ethernet switch series is equipped with layer 2 network management software. Such software allows users to manage and monitor the light rails network remotely. Additional equipment such as Antaira's industrial serial device server series can also be used to facilitate the remote monitoring of light rail systems due to its ability to transmit data bi-directionally through the utilization of built-in Real COM software or a TCP socket function.