Westermo Ethernet Broadband Bridge for Train Networks

Westermo has launched an Ethernet broadband bridge designed especially for the rail vehicle market. The DDW-002-B1, part of the Wolverine series of industrial Ethernet extenders, can be used to interconnect Ethernet networks within rail cars using the existing cables in the train coupling. This provides considerable savings for refurbishment, negating the need to rebuild or replace the train coupler.

The DDW-002-B1 uses power-line communication technology according to IEEE 1901 and is able to support data communication networks by propagating high bandwidth Ethernet traffic over almost any 2-wire cable. This communication technology is well proven, highly robust and able to negate problems with degraded legacy cabling, such as oxidized connectors.

The unit requires no configuration, and plug-and-play simplicity allows rapid installation and commissioning, providing a cost-effective and more robust solution compared to wireless technologies.

The unit has been designed to meet the full requirements of the rail vehicle market and has been tested and certified to meet and exceed EN 50155. It is also approved for track side deployment according to EN 50121-4.

The DDW-002-B1 also has potential for use in a variety of non-rail applications, e.g. involving communication over slip rings. Its compact and robust construction makes it well suited for deployment in areas with severe operating conditions and extreme environments.

By using the highest quality components the DDW-002-B1 delivers extended Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) figures. Features like a GORE-TEX membrane in the IP67 enclosure prevent water build-up, and the vibration-safe integrated connector threading, further contribute to high MTBF and long service life.

This product complements Westermo’s comprehensive range of Ethernet backbone and consist network switches already in wide use throughout the rail industry.