5G Transit Applications

AirLink XR90 routers, with dual Wi-Fi 6 radios provide each bus one internal transit network as well as a separate passenger Wi-Fi network in order to ensure security. The internal transit network integrates with driver and passenger security cameras, fare payment systems, digital signage, GPS/AVL systems and vehicle diagnostic systems while automatically connecting to the best available 5G or Wi-Fi 6 network.

To maximize the use of each XR90, USAT helps transit agencies by providing expert antenna selection and installation services. For a single-radio XR90, we paired three separate fakra-enabled antennas to maximize internal and external Wi-Fi, boost cellular signal strength, and utilize Bluetooth capabilities.

The LTMWG944 ultra-wide band antenna from Mobile Mark is a 9-in-1 antenna that provides 4x4 MIMO cellular coverage, 4x4 MIMO Wi-Fi (Outside Bus), and GPS Glonass connectivity. The LTM904, installed inside the bus provides strong passenger Wi-Fi 6, and the MRM3 provides Bluetooth connectivity for specific applications. Every one of these antennas is rugged built with IP67 ratings.

When utilizing the XR90 with an additional 5G expansion cartridge, The LTMW941 5-in-1 antenna provides 4x4 MIMO cellular coverage and Bluetooth connectivity. Removing the need for a separate MRM3 Bluetooth antenna.

The XR90 creates a wired and wireless local area network on transit vehicles, providing reliable connectivity for a variety of onboard systems. For example, the XR90 enables passengers to pay fares with credit cards and validate bus passes, providing convenience for passengers, and increasing operational efficiency.

On-board systems for route, schedule, and service information are updated in real-time or in the bus yard. On express bus routes, the system also provides fire-walled Wi-Fi access for passengers, who can use the Internet from laptops, PDAs, or smartphones.

The XR90 can sense and select the best available wireless network, and roam across a variety of networks, including commercial cellular, 3G, 700 MHz, and municipal Wi-Fi. This means that while a vehicle is traveling on its route, it is connected using the most reliable network available.

At his transit agency, vehicles utilize HSPA networks while on their routes, and when they return to the yard, connect to the yards Wi-Fi network. This multi-network feature ensures the greatest bandwidth, robust data reliability, and the most cost-effective delivery of wireless communications to the fleet.

ALMS, combined with AMR (advanced mobility reporting) gives his IT team a high level of information and control over its wireless communications. The AMR receives and analyzes information from XR90's to provide headquarters staff with a virtual dashboard of information about networks, devices and vehicles in the field. It also enables team members to monitor its network and diagnose communications problems as its fleet of buses travels throughout the day.