The requirement & Solution

Our customer required to integrate legacy serial RS-232 based equipment with modern Ethernet-based networks on-board a fleet of UK based trains. This would allow for remote real-time monitoring of train diagnostic information and the recording of data for review of historic performance and trend monitoring.

Each vehicle had a train management and diagnostic system (TMDS) which had a serial RS-232 interface. This equipment needed to communicate across Ethernet-based train network infrastructure and train-to-ground communication systems, which are commonplace on modern trains.

The Moxa NPORT 5000 AI-M12 serial-to-Ethernet device server was selected for this application; it provided a means to easily integrate the TMDS equipment with the train network. The hardware's environmental specification and specific design features also suited the application perfectly, the NPORT 5000 AI-M12 has an extremely rugged design for reliable operation, the enclosure is IP40 rated for protection from harmful ingress of water, and the operating temperature range is from -40°C to 75°C and the unit uses M12 connectors to handle the shock and vibration of rail applications - The product's rugged design is backed up with EN50121-4 rail approval.

Results

The SE8502-M12 has proven to be an extremely useful solution to allow for serial-based train data to be downloaded through an existing Ethernet network without major changes to the existing train hardware.

Why Amplicon?

Amplicon was able to meet the customer requirements for a cost-effective but technically competent solution. The customer also required the reassurance that they would have one point of local technical support for the solution provided. With over 50 years of engineering experience in industrial applications, Amplicon was the preferred supplier.