CAF Signalling and Cellnex Telecom have reached an international milestone by successfully validating their Optio CBTC system on a private 5G network deployed and managed by the telecommunications infrastructure operator.
According to CAF, this project carried out both in the laboratory and in field tests is one of the first in the world to demonstrate that a CBTC solution operates effectively on private 5G infrastructure.
CAF adds that the integration and validation of Optio with 5G is a paradigm shift, as it provides ultra-fast transmission, low latency, convergence of applications and cyber-secure communications, all under the control of the railway operator.
Compared with Wi-Fi or LTE networks, 5G offers a unique, reliable and secure environment, which makes it easier for asset managers and operators to simplify and integrate infrastructure and achieve unprecedented operational savings.
"The fundamental objective of the project has been to promote research and development to integrate ultra-low latency and high-capacity 5G connectivity in critical railway systems, including tunnels, thus improving the safety, efficiency and reliability of operations and preparing the infrastructure for the challenges of future smart mobility,” says Alfonso Álvarez, CEO of Cellnex Spain.
The project has benefitted from European Union (EU) co-financing through the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), within the framework of the Unico sectorial 2023 programme.
