Trackside communications

York has a long-standing history in wireless and quantum communications. Our research and innovation within the rail sector, spanning technology readiness levels 2 – 7, exploits our expertise in the application of communications to unusual or challenging environments.

We undertake theory, modelling and experiments, through to trials of the technology, exploiting our significant test equipment and purpose-built labs to deliver state of the art outputs.

Key activities include:

GSM-R to FRMCS migration: thought leadership in conjunction with rail collaborators.
5G/6G O-RAN: supported by commercial modelling tools and test equipment.
Resilient communications: including a cell free testbed allowing direct connection to unmodified 5G user equipment, that enables ultra-reliable low latency communications.
Bespoke actuation:allowing efficient interfacing of track side assets to O-RAN systems, to enable cost effective replacement.
Communication security via quantum key distribution: significant design and experimental testing of advanced protocols.
Quantum-secured fibre/free-space -based data communications: enabling new secure scenarios for data as well as signal exchange.

Key technical contacts

Professor Kanapathippillai Cumanan - School of Physics, Engineering and Technology
Professor David Grace - Advanced Communications Pillar Lead in Institute for Safe Autonomy, and Challenging Environments Theme Lead, School of Physics, Engineering and Technology.
Dr Rupesh Kumar - Lecturer, School of Physics, Engineering and Technology
Professor Marco Lucamarini - Chair of Experimental Quantum Communications, School of Physics, Engineering and Technology

Our diverse team includes Research Fellows and Associates, a Senior Research Engineer and several Research Software Engineers, each with several years experience.

Work with us

Partnering with York

Rail expertise

What we're here for

Facilities at York

Hire our commercial facilities