Ethernet Switches

Home | Products and solutions | EKE-Trainnet® | Ethernet Switches

Functions of Ethernet Switches

EKE is a pioneer in Ethernet-based Train Communication Networks (TCN). EKE-Trainnet switches and software were used on board the first train with 100 % IP-based TCN.

Ethernet Platform

We can offer a solution for any Ethernet-based Train Communication Network. Depending on the Ethernet platform modules that you select, several functions can be fulfilled.

For example, Ethernet Train Backbone (ETB), Ethernet Consist Network (ECN), Managed Switch, Router and Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) accordingly.

Ethernet Train Backbone (ETB)
The Ethernet Train Backbone (ETB) is a modern train bus technology enabling a cost-effective setup with a large bandwidth (up to 100Mbit/s Vs 1 Mbit/s for WTB). It can replace or be used together with WTB and other train buses. Like the WTB, it allows for dynamic train configuration.
Ethernet Consist Network (ECN)
The Ethernet Consist Network (ECN) technology can be used to create vehicle buses and also as train-wide communication network in the case of fixed consist (no dynamic train configuration).
Ethernet Switch
Ethernet Switches are used to connect devices to the Train Communication Network enabling networked devices to communicate with each other. The managed switches manage layer 3 protocols, such as DHCP and IGMP. It also allows for finer configuration of the switch.
ETB Router
The routing functionality allows the switch to be dynamically configured, thus redirecting messages to devices based on the latest information. A common application is dynamic train configuration: when changing the order of cars, the train communication network is automatically reconfigured. The position and orientation of each car is identified, enabling flawless communications throughout the train.
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE)
Power-over-Ethernet allows for the passing of electrical power in addition to data with Ethernet cabling. It means you can dramatically reduce setup costs and wiring as only one cable is required to each device. More and more devices support PoE including surveillance cameras, displays, GSM antennas, and emergency phones among others.

Modularity

EKE-Trainnet Systems are modular. You can build an Ethernet Switch with just the functionalities you need, for cost-efficiency. As a general rule, a standalone EKE-Trainnet Ethernet Switch includes an EKE-Trainnet Rack, an EKE-Trainnet power supply and at least one EKE-Trainnet Ethernet Module.

EKE-Trainnet Ethernet Switches can be easily integrated into a more comprehensive EKE-Trainnet system. For instance, the Ethernet Switch can be used as part of a Gateway, a VCU or a full TCMS train computer. That way, you can save space and money with a very compact and efficient system.

Racks

EKE-Trainnet Racks are available in different sizes: the most common are 20TE, 44TE and84TE wide racks. The racks are usually 3U high but a 6U 84TE Rack is also available for larger systems as well as for the EKE-Trainnet 1U ESU Switch with Power-over-Ethernet. Other rack sizes are also available: please ask us.

Power supply

Most EKE-Trainnet Systems can be powered using the EKE-Trainnet PSV and Trainnet PIU modules. When Power-over-Ethernet is needed, the EKE-Trainnet PSE, EKE-Trainnet ESS and optionally the EKE-Trainnet PBU are used.