GSM-R for non-European railways and the migration from an existing analogue system

GSM-R is a technology developed for the Railways in Europe, yet it is now also being chosen by railways in other parts of the world as the medium through which they can update their communications systems. This paper looks at the background that led to the GSM-R specifications being developed and how those specifications are being managed today. When choosing GSM-R all railways, and particularly non-European ones, gain the immediate advantage of implementing a proven technology which has already accumulated significant operational experience in the railway arena. However they need to be aware of the implications and consequences of any deviations from the specifications that they require their suppliers to provide. The paper discusses typical national deviations and will highlight the consequences of such specification changes. Once a railway has decided to adopt a GSM-R based system, how do they migrate their communications safely and effectively from what they currently have to the new system? This question is addressed by examining how some of the railways in Europe are going about this task, or in some cases how they have already achieved it. This paper identifies the possible strategies that exist and their strengths and weaknesses so that railway operators can make their own informed decision.