07 November 2023

Orange Polska has installed mobile signal repeaters (amplifiers) in 300 railway coaches of PKP Intercity in cooperation with Orange Poland,P4, Polkomtel, and T-Mobile Poland.

The cellular network signal amplifiers will facilitate the transmission of radio signals between base stations and consumer devices that utilise the mobile network. This setup and solution are employed to enhance the signal and extend the coverage range.

In the case of trains, special donor antennas are affixed to the roofs of the wagons, receiving signals from the base station. These signals are then transmitted via coaxial cable to the repeater, where they are amplified, and subsequently, the strengthened signal is conveyed through leaky coaxial cables extended along the wagons, ensuring radio signal coverage throughout the length of the train.

In October, PKP Intercity launched amplifiers in 300 train cars, with another 254 planned to be installed by the end of 2023. These amplifiers are also equipped with GPS receivers to ensure they can be remotely monitored and configured based on their location. The GPS facilitates insights into the dynamic nature of traffic and users on a moving train.

The introduction of amplifiers in the wagons follows the installation of WiFi routers, representing another step towards improving the availability of mobile services on trains.