railways railway radio spectrum needs survey ara... · acma discussion paper on “spectrum...

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Australasian Railways

Association Railway Radio

Spectrum Needs Survey

FinalVersion 4 70263

REVISION NUMBER: 2 22 September2008

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http://www.gqaas.com.au/

Australasian Railways Association Railway Radio Spectrum Needs Survey

ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT

TITLE: Revised Final Report

PROJECT NAME: Railway Radio Spectrum Needs Survey

PROJECT NO: 70263

AUTHORISED: Geoff Fietz

ABSTRACT: The finalisation of a Railway Radio Spectrum Needs Survey on behalf of the Australasian Railway Association (ARA). The initial survey was commenced in late 2007 by ARA. The results of the survey are to be reported to ARA for consideration of future spectrum needs for the railways and responding to an ACMA Discussion Paper on “Spectrum Options: 403 – 520 MHz”.

Document History

Rev Date Description Author Reviewed

Rev A 24/06/08 First Draft GC GF

Rev 0 23/07/08 Final GC GF

Rev 1 26/08/08 Revised Final GC GF

Rev 2 22/09/08 Revised Final 2 GC GF

Revised Final Report i Rev 2


TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 The Requirement .......................................................................................................1

2 General Findings .......................................................................................................2 2.1 General .......................................................................................................................... 2 2.2 Summary of Information from Respondents............................................................. 3

3 GQ-AAS Commentary..............................................................................................6 3.1 Observations ................................................................................................................. 6 3.1.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 6

3.1.2 Consolidation into a 403-430 MHz ‘Government band’ ........................................ 6

3.1.3 12.5 kHz channel options............................................................................................. 6

3.1.4 Reservation of Spectrum ............................................................................................. 7

3.1.5 Trunked Radio Networks .............................................................................................. 7

3.1.6 Automated Rail Identifications Systems (RFID) ........................................................ 7

4 GQ-AAS Recommendation .....................................................................................9 4.1 Approach to Government.......................................................................................... 9

A. ARA Railway Spectrum Needs Survey Form...........................................................1

B. Survey Responses .....................................................................................................3 B.1 Genesee and Wyoming Australia Pty Ltd................................................................. 3 B.2 WestNet Rail................................................................................................................... 5 B.3 Rail Corporation NSW................................................................................................... 7 B.4 VicTrack.......................................................................................................................... 9 B.5 V/Line............................................................................................................................ 10 B.6 TransAdelaide ............................................................................................................. 15 B.7 Ascianco/Pacific National........................................................................................ 17 B.8 Queensland Rail.......................................................................................................... 19 B.9 Public Transport Authority WA (PTA WA)................................................................. 22 B.10 Australian Rail Track Corporation............................................................................. 24

Revised Final Report ii Rev 2


1 THE REQUIREMENT The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) is a member-based association that represents the interests of the rail sector in Australia and New Zealand. The fundamental purpose of the ARA is to create an environment that will permit the Australasian rail industry to prosper.

The ARA is seeking information from the various nominated rail jurisdictions throughout Australia on their current spectrum usage and their spectrum needs into the future. To achieve this end the ARA initiated a Railway Radio Spectrum Needs Survey (the survey). The detail gathered is intended to provide background information for the strategic planning of railway communications and activities to ensure that adequate spectrum is available for railways to suit its overall long term needs.

The survey was initiated in September 2007 by ARA. GQ-AAS was contracted in May 2008 to assist with finalisation of the survey and reporting of the results.

To this end ARA requested GQ-AAS to source and collate information from rail jurisdictions nominated by ARA utilising a slightly modified survey form (copy at Appendix A). This differed from the original form developed by ARA in terms of clarifications provided in the column headers.

The nominated rail jurisdictions contacted were as follows:

• Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC);

• Genesee and Wyoming Australia Pty Ltd (GWA);

• WestNet Rail;

• Rail Corporation NSW (RailCorp);

• VicTrack;

• V/Line;

• TransAdelaide;

• Asciano/Pacific National;

• Queensland Rail (QR);

• Public Transport Authority WA (PTA WA); and

• Department of Infrastructure Victoria (DOI Vic).

Copies of responses received are at Appendix B.

Revised Final Report 1 Rev 2


2 GENERAL FINDINGS

2.1 General To complement the information provided in the responses a list of licensing information is provided. The following is a list of the various licences1 held by the rail industry for rail related purposes2.

Licence Type Licence Category Survey Respondent

Spectrum 1.8 GHz Upper/Lower RailCorp, PTA WA

Radiodetermination Radiodetermination RailCorp, ARTC

Land Mobile Land Mobile System - > 30 MHz RailCorp, QR, PTA WA, WestNet, ARTC, Pacific National, GWA, VicTrack, AWR3

Land Mobile Ambulatory System RailCorp, WestNet, ARTC, GWA, VicTrack, AWR

Land Mobile Ambulatory - Initial RailCorp, ARTC, GWA, VicTrack, AWR

Land Mobile Paging System - Interior RailCorp, VicTrack

Land Mobile Land Mobile System ARTC

Fixed Point to Point RailCorp, QR, PTA WA, WestNet, ARTC, GWA, VicTrack, AWR

Fixed Point to Multipoint QR, ARTC, VicTrack

Fixed Point to Multipoint – Land Mobile Spec

VicTrack

Fixed Receive Fixed Receive GWA

Scientific Scientific Non Assigned RailCorp

Outpost Outpost Non Assigned WestNet

Table 1- Different Licence Types by spectrum by rail jurisdiction

1 Register of Radiocommunications Licences – http://www.acma.gov.au 2 It is possible that there are other frequencies used by railway operators that are listed with details that do not include ‘rail’ related terms in their registration details. 3 AWR – Australian Western Railroad – a subsidiary of the Australian Rail Group which is a Queensland Rail (QR) company



2.2 Summary of Information from Respondents

Before considering the information provided by respondents it is prudent to keep the considerations of the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) discussion paper titled: Spectrum Options: 403 – 520 MHz paper in mind.

The paper is aimed at “stimulating discussion” to assist the development of future arrangements for the radiofrequency spectrum in the range 403-520 MHz (the 400 MHz band). The considerable use of the band by rail jurisdictions makes the paper an important consideration for ARA, and rail authorities in general, to present a position on spectrum matters. ACMA has identified 31 Issues for comment in its discussion paper. Issues that GQ-AAS consider to be the main or feature impact areas for ARA are incorporated in the commentary section (Section 3) of this report.

The following table (Table 2) provides a summary of respondent information to the survey in terms of current and future usage of spectrum.

Respondent Comments/Observations

GWA Usage in 400MHz band4

19 channels in 403–420 MHz; 11 channels in 450–470 MHz New or Additional future use: 14 channels in 403–420 MHz; 10 channels in 450–470 MHz – both ‘future uses’ identified for Train Control at Port Lincoln and Pimba.

WestNet Rail Usage in 400 MHz and 148–175 MHz bands. 33 channels in 403–420 MHz; 1 Ambulatory channel in 450 – 470 MHz; 9 channels in 148–175 MHz band. No planned cessation of these uses. No new or additional future requirements identified. Migration of some uses may be possible.

RailCorp Usage in 400 MHz band. Search of ACMA Register of Radiocommunications Licence5 database reveals approximately 514 licences in the name of RailCorp – predominately for Trunk Mobile. 12.5 MHz and 25 MHz channels in use. 915-928 MHz spectrum also used for RFID systems. Cessation of use of 403-420MHz is possible by 2012. New or Additional future use: 1.8 GHz for GSM-R (December 2009) and 450.050 (25 kHz channel) for ‘Direct mode System function – no date.

VicTrack Usage in 400 MHz band Extensive detail provided in response covering usage in 403–420 MHz band and 450-450 MHz area of band. No planned cessation of these uses. No new or additional future requirements identified. 1.8 GHz for GSM-R by 2010.

V/Line Usage in 400 MHz band Extensive detail provided in response covering usage in 403–420 MHz band. Some use in 470-520MHz band. No planned cessation of these uses. No new or additional future requirements identified.

4 The 403-520 MHz range is known by the ACMA as the 400 MHz band 5 Register of Radiocommunications Licenses – http://www.acma.gov.au



Respondent Comments/Observations

TransAdelaide Usage in 400 MHz band 420-450 MHz used mainly for trunking systems and 410-420 MHz used for ‘Vote backup to GRN’. No planned cessation of these uses, but may be possible. New or Additional future use: 1.8 GHz – Next Generation radio systems, no date decided.

Asciano/Pacific National

Usage in 400 MHz, 168-169 MHz and 920-925MHz bands. 403-420 MHz and 450-470 MHz (25 and 12.5 KHz channels) used for “various radio channels”. 168-169 MHz and 471.850 MHz used for radio channels and locomotive remote control systems. 472.5 and 477.7 MHz and 920 MHz and 925 MHz (25 KHz channels) used for “end of train monitoring” and equipment “RFID readers”. 470-500 MHz and 450-470 MHz (25 KHz channels) used for telemetry/data systems Aust. Wide. No planned cessation of these uses. No new or additional future requirements identified.

Queensland Rail Usage in 400 MHz band 45 channels (25 KHz channels) in 403-420 MHz for train radio (identified possible shift to 12.5 KHz channels); 450 channel for NSW WB Radio; 16 channels 450-520 MHz for ‘Locotrol’ (10 channels) and 6 channels for telemetry. No planned cessation of these uses, some consolidation may be possible by 2012. New or Additional future use: 1800 MHz – for GSM-R (currently have licenses) and 90 (12.5 KHz) channels for digital platform – trunking (approx. 2012)

PTA WA Usage in 400 MHz band and 8 GHz and 13 GHz. 403-420 MHz used for Train Control, Security, Maintenance and Wireless PA. 8 GHz and 13 GHz used for point to point microwave links. No planned cessation of these uses. New or Additional future use: 1800 MHz (Upper and Lower band) and 1.8 GHz Upper and Lower band) proposed to be used for digital radio systems for the functions for current used systems (identified above). PTA WA already has spectrum licenses issued.

ARTC Usage in 400 MHz band; ARTC Nationwide – Ambulatory channel used for driver local communications with other drivers. Yard shunt communications in Kooragong Island and Pt Waratah (403 – 420 MHz & 450 – 520 MHz); Rail yards; driver controller communications (403 – 420 MHz) plus various frequencies in 403 – 420 MHz for managed services provided by VicTrack for non-urban train radio. Various frequencies used for microwave systems; Newcastle – Grafton, Bathurst – Orange. Most uses have no cessation date, some to cease by 2010. No new or additional future requirements identified

Table 2- Responses to ARA Survey Form by rail jurisdiction



The following table (Table 3) represents a variation of Table 2 in that it focuses on the spectrum, currently used, identified for continuing use or identified for future/new use by respondents to the survey. Actual uses are provided in Table 2.

Spectrum Currently used by Reported as a

continuing requirement by

Reported as new or additional

requirements by

148 – 175 MHz WestNet Rail; Pacific National

WestNet Rail; Pacific National

403 – 420 MHz

ARTC; GWA; WestNet

Rail; RailCorp; VicTrack; V/Line; TransAdelaide;

Pacific National; QR; PTA WA

ARTC; GWA; WestNet Rail; RailCorp; VicTrack; V/Line; TransAdelaide; Pacific National; QR;

PTA WA

GWA; WestNet Rail; QR

420 – 450 MHz (Defence Band)

TransAdelaide (government trunking)

TransAdelaide (government trunking)

450 – 520 MHz

ARTC; GWA; WestNet

Rail; RailCorp; VicTrack; V/Line; Pacific National;

QR

ARTC; GWA; WestNet Rail; RailCorp; VicTrack;

V/Line; Pacific National; QR

GWA; RailCorp

900 – 925 MHz Pacific National; QR Pacific National; QR

1.5 GHz QR QR

1.8 GHz 6RailCorp; VicTrack; TransAdelaide; QR;

PTA WA

6RailCorp; VicTrack; TransAdelaide; QR;

PTA WA

RailCorp; VicTrack; TransAdelaide; QR;

PTA WA

7.5 GHz QR QR

8.0 GHz PTA WA PTA WA

10/11 GHz QR QR

13 GHz PTA WA PTA WA

18 GHz QR QR

Table 3- Spectrum utilised or proposed by spectrum band

6 Held as spectrum licence, not in operational use



3 GQ-AAS COMMENTARY

3.1 Observations

3.1.1 Introduction The responses to the survey contained varying levels of information about current and future services or spectrum uses. The quality of this detail has made more conclusive observations difficult to provide, particularly in relation to future plans for spectrum use or acquisition. Whilst current uses are well established and future uses were identified before the release of the ACMA paper, GQ-AAS has focussed its observations on areas of the ACMA paper that it considers critical to the rail industry. Against the backdrop of responses received it is noteworthy that ACMA’s paper recognises that: “...there has been increasing pressure from industry and users of the band to establish arrangements that will better accommodate future communication needs through current and emerging technologies. Much of the band has become congested in the major capital cities, and overall there is a growing need to support more spectrally efficient technologies. These technologies include trunking and more extensive use of narrower bandwidth channels for land mobile and fixed services.7”

3.1.2 Consolidation into a 403-430 MHz ‘Government band’

GQ-AAS notes that all the respondents (with the exception of V/Line and PTA WA) either currently use or propose to use spectrum in the 430-520 MHz range. The ACMA discussion paper seeks comment on two points that, if adopted, may impact on these groups. ACMA is seeking comment on:

• The possibility of making spectrum available in the 403-420 MHz band for government use only; and

• The possibility of when combined with the existing 420-430 MHz government band, government land mobile use could be consolidated in the band 403-430 MHz.

The importance of responding to this issue is that, if adopted by ACMA, a number of rail jurisdictions will be required to reconsider options for either current or future spectrum plans. Whilst it is highly unlikely any reduction in spectrum allocations will eventuate, a change in some current operations and equipment may be necessary. Further, rail jurisdictions will, if the proposal eventuates, be required to reconsider broader strategic planning for spectrum use.

3.1.3 12.5 kHz channel options

GQ-AAS notes that a number of respondents to the survey (GWA, RailCorp, Pacific National, QR) operate services using 25 kHz channels. It is also noted that in some instances 12.5 kHz channels are used, or identified for future use. As with the 403-430 MHz issues, ACMA is also seeking comment from submitters on a range of issues associated with a ‘migration’ to 12.5 kHz operation of

7 ACMA discussion paper – Spectrum Options 403–520 MHz – released April 2008



existing 25 kHz analogue FM systems, within the range 403-420 MHz and 450-520 MHz. GQ-AAS also notes that ACMA is seeking comment on the future requirements for digital land mobile operation and ways that ACMA can facilitate greater use of more spectrally efficient technology which provides for 12.5 kHz channel usage. Both of these points are important features of the discussion paper and may impact on rail jurisdictions in terms of land mobile and fixed point-to-point licensing. New equipment may be necessary in an environment where ACMA is seeking more efficient use of spectrum and the benefits of ‘reduced channel bandwidth and repackaging’25 kHz channels. The ACMA paper notes that 63.1% of frequency assignments are to 25 kHz channels. As a consequence it is likely significant ‘shifting’ will be required in order to adopt ACMA’s preferred position. GQ-AAS consider this is an important issue for ARA to consider if rail is to consolidate a position using 12.5 MHz channels.

3.1.4 Reservation of Spectrum

ACMA is seeking comment on the possibility of identifying parts of the 400 MHz band for point-to-multipoint applications authorised under a class licensed, ‘public park’ scheme. GQ-AAS is of the view that ARA should consider in its response to ACMA the impact of such a move on issues of public safety for the rail network and further consider approaching ACMA with the view to allocating a certain part of the 400 MHz band for ‘rail use only’. Such a ‘reservation’ would ensure matters such as safety were adequately addressed in planning considerations. To facilitate such an approach GQ-AAS considers more information is required from rail jurisdictions to enable an appropriate representation. However, given that a review of the use and planning of the 400 MHz band is now in train the timing for making such a representation would seem appropriate.

3.1.5 Trunked Radio Networks GQ-AAS notes that trunked radio networks are utilised in some jurisdictions. Again the ACMA paper poses the question of users of the 400 MHz band moving to a trunked system. ACMA has raised the issue of trunking being spectrum efficient and offering users a range of benefits over conventional land mobile. As a possible trade-off for seeking some leverage in seeking access to a dedicated part of the 400 MHz band offering up unused spectrum through taking on more trunked radio networks may work to ARA’s advantage. GQ-AAS is however reserved in making its comment about trunked radio networks as the responses to the survey do not provide enough of an insight into its overall usage. GQ-AAS simply highlights trunking as an option for ARA to consider in a ‘whole of rail’ response to ACMA.

3.1.6 Automated Rail Identifications Systems (RFID) GQ-AAS notes that ACMA, in its discussion paper “Five-year Spectrum Outlook 2009-20148”, raises the issue of the rapidly increasing use of RFID systems worldwide. Whilst the paper acknowledges there is limited deployment and growth of this application to rail networks in Australia, increased use for suburban rail transport may be a possibility. ACMA also states that it will

8 Five-year Spectrum Outlook 2009-2014 –April 2008 ; http://www.acma.gov.au



continue to monitor the use of the 915-928 MHz band for rail identification systems, acknowledging that it does not anticipate additional spectrum requirements for this purpose. Although raised by one respondent GQ-AAS observes that ACMA, in its paper, identifies Pacific National, ARTC and RailCorp as users. GQ-AAS consider use of this spectrum and RFID are issues ARA may wish to monitor and discuss further with rail organisations.



4 GQ-AAS RECOMMENDATION

4.1 Approach to Government GQ-AAS is of the view that ARA should respond to the ACMA discussion paper on at least all of the abovementioned points. Each of the observations made by GQ-AAS has an impact on the rail industry, not only as a whole, but also in relation to some of the future plans identified by particular respondents to the survey. GQ-AAS takes the view that a consolidated ‘all of industry’ response to the paper from the ARA will provide the opportunity ARA needs to assume a significant role in achieving its stated purpose of creating an environment that will permit the Australian rail industry to prosper. Further, by ARA adopting this position, coupled with one of negotiating with Government on spectrum related issues, ARA will provide the solid co-ordinated focus which quite often has more impact with Government than independent disparate representations. In summary, a response to the invitation by ACMA in its paper on the 400 MHz band may consider the following issues:

• Adoption of a 12.5 kHz approach to channelling; • Reservation of spectrum for ‘rail only use’ in the proposed Government

band; and • Adoption of more trunking throughout Australia’s rail network.

These issues must be progressed collaboratively with the rail industry to ensure practicability and cost effectiveness.



A. ARA RAILWAY SPECTRUM NEEDS SURVEY FORM

ARA RAILWAY COMMUNICATIONS SPECTRUM NEEDS SURVEY Organization or Company: Contact Name: .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Phone: Email: ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

EXISTING USE

Band (e.g. 403-420; 420-

450; or 450-520 MHz)

Bandwidth used (e.g. 473.575 MHz to

478.75 MHz)

System Function (purpose for which spectrum is being used – e.g. Transport

Protection and Control System)

Estimated cessation date (estimated cessation date of use of current spectrum for

identified purpose) Add lines as necessary

Band (as per above)

Bandwidth required (as per above)

System Function (identify any new or replacement systems)

Estimated commencement date

(identify planned or prospective commencement date – i.e. date that additional

or new spectrum will be required)

Add lines as necessary



B. SURVEY RESPONSES

B.1 Genesee and Wyoming Australia Pty Ltd ARA RAILWAY COMMUNICATIONS SPECTRUM NEEDS SURVEY

Organization or Company: GWA Contact Name: Paul Hurley .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Phone: 08 8343 7777 Email: [email protected] ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

EXISTING USE

Band (e.g. 403-420; 420-

450; or 450-520 MHz)

Bandwidth used (e.g 473.575 MHz to

478.75 MHz.)




identified purpose) 403-420 8 x 12.5 Khz channels

2 x 25 Khz channels 8 x 25 Khz channels 1 x 25 Khz channel

Whyalla Train Control Adelaide Train Control Shunt yards South Australia Whyalla locomotive remote control system

No plan to cease use No plan to cease use No plan to cease use No plan to cease use

450-470 4 x 25 Khz channels 6 x 25 Khz channels 1 x 25 Khz channel

Whyalla Train Control Links Mid North Train Control Links End of Train Air System

No plan to cease use No plan to cease use No plan to cease use



Estimated or Planned FUTURE USE

Band (as per above)




(identify planned or prospective commencement

date – ie date that additional or new spectrum will be required)

403-420 8 x 12.5 Khz channels 6 x 12.5 Khz channels

Pt. Lincoln to Lock Train Control Pimba to Roxby Train Control

Possibly mid 2009, proposal only Possibly late 2009, proposal only

450-470 6 x 25 Khz channels 4 x 25 Khz channels

Pt. Lincoln to Lock Train Control Pimba to Roxby Train Control

Possibly mid 2009, proposal only Possibly late 2009, proposal only



B.2 WestNet Rail ARA RAILWAY COMMUNICATIONS SPECTRUM NEEDS SURVEY

Organization or Company: WestNet Rail Contact Name: Wayne Belstead (Comms Systems Manager) .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Phone: (08) 921 22828, Mobile 0411 741 511 Email: [email protected] ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

EXISTING USE

Band (e.g. 403-420; 420-

450; or 450-520 MHz)


478.75 MHz)




identified purpose) 403 – 420 MHz Total of 33 two-

frequency channels in the 408.5 to 410.5 MHz (Rx) and 418 to 420 MHz (Tx) sub-bands.

Train Control Channel, used for normal railway operation, incident reporting and emergency situations. Provides essential communications between Train Control, Locomotive Crews, Track Maintenance Gangs and other field personnel.

Ongoing. No plans to cease operations in this band.

450 – 470 MHz 450.050 Channel Ambulatory channel used for localized Train Operations and Maintenance Functions. Provides local communications between Locomotive Crews, Track Maintenance Gangs and other field personnel.

Ongoing. No plans to cease operations on this channel.

148-175 MHz Total of 9 two-frequency channels in the 166.4 to 166.7 MHz (Tx) and 171 to 171.3 MHz (Rx) sub-bands and two simplex channels in the 168.7 to 169 MHz region.

Train Control Channel, used for normal railway operation, incident reporting and emergency situations. Provides essential communications between Train Control, Locomotive Crews, Track Maintenance Gangs and other field personnel.

Ongoing. No plans to cease operations in this band. (Possibility for future migration of systems to the 159MHz/164MHz sub bands or to the 403-420 MHz Band.)




Band (as per above)




403 – 420 MHz Up to four additional

two-frequency channels in the 408.5 to 410.5 MHz (Rx) and 418 to 420 MHz (Tx) sub-bands.

Possible future Migration of the VHF systems to UHF. [Continuation of existing functions: Train Control Channel, used for normal railway operation, incident reporting and emergency situations. Provides essential communications between Train Control, Locomotive Crews, Track Maintenance Gangs and other field personnel.]

No firm dates set, but potentially between 2010 and 2012.



B.3 Rail Corporation NSW ARA RAILWAY COMMUNICATIONS SPECTRUM NEEDS SURVEY

Organization or Company: RailCorp Contact Name: Bruce Jackson .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Phone: 02 8922 0961 Email: [email protected] ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

EXISTING USE

Band (e.g. 403-420; 420-

450; or 450-520 MHz)


478.75 MHz)




identified purpose) 403-420MHz 12.5KHz / per channel RailCorp MetroNet

System Function: To facilitate voice communications throughout RailCorp’s track network including train control.

June 2012

450.050MHz 25KHz Direct Mode System Function: To facilitate voice communications throughout RailCorp’s track network

N/A




Band (as per above)




1.8GHz 200KHz / per channel GSM-R

System Function: To facilitate voice and data communications throughout RailCorp’s track network (inclusive of yards and sidings), train control and signalling facilities as well as rolling stock

Dec 2009

450.050MHz 25KHz Direct Mode System Function: To facilitate voice communications throughout RailCorp’s track network

N/A



B.4 VicTrack ARA RAILWAY COMMUNICATIONS SPECTRUM NEEDS SURVEY

Organization or Company: VICTORIAN RAIL TRACK Contact Name: LAURIE BECKWITH .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Phone: 03-96198700 OR 0409 005 711 Email: [email protected] ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

EXISTING USE

Band Bandwidth System Function Estimated cessation date 400MHz band

400 – 420MHz

Train to base radio system for intrastate operations covering ARTC and V/Line as the access providers. Also the suburban train radio system used by Connex. All Apparatus Licenses.

At least 2011

400MHz band

450 – 470MHz 470 – 490MHz

Local train radio, safeworking (signal Box) radio and RF point-to-point links. All Apparatus Licenses. Tram radio communications – All Apparatus Licenses

No end date at present.

500MHz band 500 – 520MHz Tram radio communications – All Apparatus Licenses No end date at present.


Band Bandwidth System Function Estimated commencement date

1.8GHz band

1.7550 – 1.7825 1.8500 – 1.8800

New Metropolitan Train Safety Communications System (metropolitan train radio). Spectrum License already in hand for this application, covering the Melbourne metropolitan area.

2010



B.5 V/Line Draft for V9 Channels in the Simplex Group are Shunt Channels unless otherwise stated.

CTCSS Locations are below numbers.

A=Admin; S=Shunt.

Type FREQ 100.0 131.8 141.3 151.4 162.2 173.8 186.2 107.2 167.9 123.0 103.5

Base Tx Base Rx Simplex 411.350 - 50 3 29 65 27 26 62 66

.Sdgs Sht 3. .Steamrail Npt.

.Dyn I/Modal Tmnl T Gate

S1.

.NthGlg Yd S2. .CRT Altona Nth S

(12.5).

Simplex 411.375 - 67 31 60 59 87 22 88 2 137

.Reserved- Southern Cross

Carriage Working.

.Tott Yd S3. .Sdgs Sht 2.

.PN APD S (12.5)

[PN License].

Simplex 411.475 - 49 30 15 4 42 46 41 25

.Gangs #1. .Tott Yd S2. .Sdgs Sht 4. .Sth Geel S. .S/DynMaint S, Marshall S.

Simplex 412.000 - 86 71 57 51 53 48 20 21

.Appleton Park S2, Grain:

Woorineen, Sea Lake, Charlton &

Birchip.

.Horsham S, Nullawill S, Shepparton S, Mooroopna S, Wodonga S,

Warragul S, Ballarat S2, NGlg Yd S3.



Simplex 412.200 - 112 113 54 12 89 82 101 24

.RFR Buses Brat. .Tott Yd S1. .Nth Shore

X-Band.

.Murtoa S, Echuca S2, Somerton Swkg,

Bendigo Swkg.

Simplex 412.375 - 153 154 33 156 90 111 81 19

.Morwell S1,

RFR Glg Swkg.

.RFR Brat Swkg.

.Swkg Craigieburn;

planned swkg Seymour;

planned swkg Kilmore East.

.Ouyen S, Dimboola S, Maryborough S,

Echuca S1, Footscray X-Band.

Simplex 412.425 - 16 17 104 105 109 110 103 23

.Geelong

Car Cleaners.

.Appleton Park S1.

.NthGlg Wagon Mtce.

.Ballarat S1, Bendigo S, Swan Hill S,

Traralgon S, Portland S2, Tott S4.

Simplex tbd - 58 108 102 98 95 94 93 92



Simplex 450.050 -

125 - WB Box (CTCSS Mobile Rx

NA).

.NR OTC Repeater.

126 & 157 -

N2WBMtn- Temp:

RFR LaTrobe Swkg;

RFR Bgo Swkg; Stony Point Swkg.

Simplex 469.700 - - - - - - - - 1 - LTR.

155 158 83 - 64 63 5 & 100 61

Simplex 469.725 -

.Bendigo RFR Swkg & RFR Maryvale

(planned).

Stony Point Swkg

(planned).

do not use .Off Train Comms. .MURL Haulage.

Repeat 418.900 409.450 37 - Glg Yd A. 79 - AVAIL.

9 - TR Point A, Donald Yard lights,

Maroona Lights, Horsham lights; Portland lights.



Repeat 418.325 408.875 38 - NGlg Yd A. 52 - Dyn

I/Modal Tmnl T Gate A.

76 - AVAIL. 80 - Sthn Cross Yd S3.

10 - Tott Yard A; Ararat lights;

Dimboola lights; Donald Loop & Sub-

Terminal lights.

Repeat 418.625 409.175 39 - Geel Area CUG. 75 - AVAIL. 11 - Sthn Cross Yd S4.

Repeat 418.550 409.100 55 - AVAIL. 97 - Sthn Cross Yd

A2. 69 - AVAIL.

Repeat 418.275 408.825 8 - Sthn

Cross Yd A1.

32 - AVAIL. 74 - AVAIL.

Repeat 418.875 409.425 34 - NGlg Yd S1.

18 - Sthn Cross Yd S5.

159 - Tott Swkg. 73 - AVAIL.

Repeat 418.300 408.850 35 - AVAIL. 77 - Portl A1. 91 -

Appleton Park A.

Repeat 418.600 409.150

13 - AVAIL;

Possible Sthn Cross

S.

36 - Glg Yd S. 72 - AVAIL. 78 - Portl S1.

Repeat 418.925 409.475 40 - Sthn Cross Yd S2.

68 - PN Intermodal Admin (MFT

R Gate).

96 - AVAIL.

Repeat 418.850 409.400 28 - Npt3. 56 - AVAIL. 84 - SCT Laverton S.

Repeat 418.475 409.025 43 - AVAIL.

85 - .Dyn I/Modal

Tmnl T Gate S2.



Repeat 418.775 409.325 44 - AVAIL. 6 - Sthn Dyn Fuel Point.

Repeat 418.800 409.350 45 - NGlg Yd S4 (G/Loop).

14 - AVAIL; Possible

Sthn Cross S.

70 - AVAIL.

Repeat 418.575 409.125 BLANK

CHANNEL ON ORCAS

47 - AVAIL. 7 - Sthn Cross S1.

Simplex 411.850 - 99 -el zorro

(12.5kH).

Simplex 410.625 -

Simplex 410.800 -

Simplex 411.975 - 141 - Melb Local Channel.

Simplex 410.825 - 136 - Swan Dock S.

Simplex 472.000 - CB replacement

Simplex 472.175 - CB replacement



B.6 TransAdelaide ARA RAILWAY COMMUNICATIONS SPECTRUM NEEDS SURVEY

Organization or Company: TRANSADELAIDE Contact Name: Valdis Evele, Executive Manager Rail Systems .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Phone: (08) 8218 2376 / Mobile: 0417 332 308 Email: [email protected] ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

EXISTING USE

Band (e.g. 403-420; 420-

450; or 450-520 MHz)


478.75 MHz)




identified purpose) UHF 420 ~ 450 MHz GRN Trunking System used across Government. 18 Agencies use

this. Principal use for SAPoL, CFS and SES is for using voice, data paging. Now the main train communication system.

SA Govt. is currently looking at the next generation radio system. The timeline for this introduction is uncertain.

UHF 410 ~ 420 MHz City Vote backup system to GRN using redundant infrastructure from previous train radio system.

SA Govt. is currently looking at the next generation radio system. The timeline for this introduction is uncertain.




Band (as per above)




1.8775 GHz - 1.88 GHz

1.85 GHz - 1.8575 GHz 1.8275 GHz - 1.83 GHz 1.8225 GHz - 1.825 GHz 1.7825 GHz - 1.785 GHz 1.755 GHz - 1.7625 GHz 1.7325 GHz - 1.735 GHz 1.7275 GHz - 1.73 GHz

Reserved bandwidth. As above - SA Govt investigations into next generation radio system are at an early phase and we are unable to specify timelines for the adoption for this reserved band width or the continuation of the SAGRN.



B.7 Asciano/Pacific National ARA RAILWAY COMMUNICATIONS SPECTRUM NEEDS SURVEY

Organization or Company: Pacific National Contact Name: John Kessner .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Phone: (03) 8414 8651 Email: [email protected] ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

EXISTING USE

Band (e.g. 403-420; 420-

450; or 450-520 MHz)


478.75 MHz)




identified purpose) 403 – 420 MHz 450 – 470 MHz

12.5 kHz per channel 25 kHz per channel

Various radio channels on-track – Australia-wide Various radio channels on-track – Australia-wide

Nil Nil

168 – 169 MHz 471.850 kHz

25 kHz per channel 25 kHz per channel

Various radio channels on-track – Vic and SA Locomotive Remote Control - Australia wide

2010? Nil

472.5 + 477.7 MHz 920 – 925 MHz


Two channel end of train monitors – Australia wide Equipment RFIO Readers - Australia wide

Nil Nil

470 – 500 MHz 450 – 470 MHz


Telemetry/data systems – Australia wide Telemetry/data systems – Australia wide

Nil Nil



Band (as per above)








B.8 Queensland Rail ARA RAILWAY COMMUNICATIONS SPECTRUM NEEDS SURVEY

Organization or Company: QR Contact Name: Brynn Llewellyn .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Phone: (07) 3235 3347 Email: [email protected] ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

EXISTING USE

Band (e.g. 403-420; 420-

450; or 450-520 MHz)


478.75 MHz)




identified purpose) 403 – 420 MHz

Approximately 45 x 25 KHz Duplex channels, 5 x 25KHz simplex channels, 20 x 25KHz channels for 150 single/dual channel links

UHF Train Radio (Statewide) UHF Maintenance Radio (Statewide) QR Automatic Train Protection (ATP) (North Coast Line –

Caboolture to Townsville and Mt Isa line) UHF Shunting (Statewide) UHF Links - Single Channel and dual channel (Statewide) UHF Trunk Radio (Central Queensland Coal fields)

No dates planned. Possible shift to 12.5 KHz channels. (See planned future use below)

450.050 MHz

1 x 25 KHz NSW WB Radio used for standard gauge communications (Qld/NSW border to Brisbane)

No dates planned. Possible shift to 12.5 KHz channels. (See planned future use below)

450-520 MHz 10 x 25KHz channels Locotrol – operation of remote locomotives in coal consist End of Train Detector , Train Speed Indicator (Coal Areas) Notes: 1) Locotrol -These are general train management channels used

No dates planned.



to ensure the safe and efficient operation of distributed power trains used in the coal networks.

2) End of Train – Used to detect the detachment of wagons in freight and coal trains.

3) Train Speed Indicator – Used to assist in loading and unloading operations

450 to 520 MHz 6 x 25KHz channels

for single/dual channel links, 20 x 25KHz channels for 150 wayside equipment telemetry and remote control applications.

Telemetry systems – Wayside monitoring (Statewide), UHF Links – single and dual channel (Statewide), Remote operation of equipment – overhead cranes, wagon doors (Statewide)

No dates planned.


Band (as per above)






1800MHz 15 MHz currently held as a spectrum license. QR is investigating actual capacity required for train protection

GSM-R for ERTMS train protection system in the Brisbane Metro area.

2012



and other services in the Brisbane Metro area.

403 – 420 MHz Approximately 90 x 12.5KHz channels based on doubling the current amount of 25KHz channels.

Digital platform – Trunking and conventional voice land mobile radio systems; limited data systems (Statewide implementation); Move to 12.5 KHz channel spacing and gain additional channels required for Train Control, Shunting and non operational communications to suit the business requirements of the expanding rail network.

2012

Additional Notes: Channel re use is used extensively throughout the QR network. This is achieved via geographic separation as well as different CTCSS tones, power reduction, use of low gain and directional antennas as well as sharing channels with other users of the rail network. QR also operates a number of point to point microwave services forming part of its Telecommunications backbone network throughout Queensland. A summary of these is shown below: Frequency Band Amount of licenses Coverage Area 900 MHz 38 Statewide 1.5 GHz 18 Regional 1.8 GHz 24 Regional 7.5 GHz 3 Regional 10/11GHz 12 Regional 18 GHZ 2 Regional



B.9 Public Transport Authority WA (PTA WA) ARA RAILWAY COMMUNICATIONS SPECTRUM NEEDS SURVEY

Organization or Company: Public Transport Authority of WA Contact Name: Craig Turner .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Phone: (08) 9326 2000 0413 804 751 Email: [email protected] ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

EXISTING USE

Band (e.g. 403-420; 420-450;

or 450-520 MHz)

Bandwidth used (e.g 473.575 MHz

to 478.75 MHz)




identified purpose) 403-420 MHz 405.050 - 410.625

414.500 - 419.950 Train Control Security Maintenance Wireless PA

No planned cessation date. Likely to be at least 2015.

8 GHz 7.81 - 8.22 Point to point microwave links No planned cessation date.

13 GHz 12.765 - 13.087 Point to point microwave links No planned cessation date.




Band (as per above)

Bandwidth required

(as per above)





1800 MHz Upper band 1800 MHz Lower Band 1.8 GHz 2000 Lower Band 1.8GHz 2000 Upper band

1.82 - 1.825 1.725 - 1.73 1.775 - 1.785 1.87 - 1.88

Digital radio system for the above functions Spectrum licences already obtained.



B.10 Australian Rail Track Corporation

ARA RAILWAY COMMUNICATIONS SPECTRUM NEEDS SURVEY Organization or Company: Australian Rail Track Corporation Contact Name: John Hall

Phone: 08 8217 4243 Email: [email protected]

EXISTING USE

Band (e.g. 403-420; 420-

450; or 450-520 MHz)


478.75 MHz.)




identified purpose) 450.050 ARTC network wide. Ambulatory channel used for driver local

communications with other drivers, Controllers, track maintenance staff and wayside equipment

Ongoing – no plans to cease operations in this band

450-520

455.975, 456.925, 465.475, 466.425

Yard/shunt communications in Kooragang Island and Pt Waratah rail yards Newcastle.


403-420

409.425, 409.400, 409.300, 409.275, 409.2625, 409.3125, 409.325, 409.4375, 409.450, 409.4625, 409.475, 409.4125,418.875, 418.850, 418.750, 418.725, 418.7125, 418.7625, 418.775, 418.8875, 418.475, 418.900, 418.9125,

Yard/shunt communications in Kooragang Island and Pt Waratah rail yards Newcastle.




418.925, 418.8625

409.075, 418.450, 408.675, 418.100, 418.125, 418.200, 418.225, 409.000, 418.525, 418.575, 418.450, 409.025, 418.475, 418.550, 418.600,

Driver-controller communications SA and WA. 2010 when it will be replaced by ARTC national train radio system (NTCS)

Various frequencies Managed serviced provided by VicTrack for non-urban train radio 2010 when it will be replaced by ARTC national train radio system (NTCS). However system may be retained for use by VLine

Various various NSW microwave systems: Newcastle-Grafton, Bathurst-Orange 2010 when it will be replaced by ARTC national train radio system (NTCS)


Band (as per above)




(identify planned or prospective commencement date – ie date that additional


None


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