Cobham Wireless has announced the launch of a new mobile tester designed to test railway GSM-R communication systems. Railway network operators and suppliers of GSM-R radios and modems need to validate the correct operation of GSM-R radios, both in the laboratory and in the field. The Cobham Wireless 2201R is designed to connect directly to GSM-R device types including high-powered Class 2 radios and is a replacement for the previous-generation 4202R tester.
The 2201R is portable, with an easy-to-use interface, and provides fast and accurate radio frequency (RF) measurements along with a full range of features including voice, data and SMS testing. In addition, it has an optional battery backup of up to 2.5 hours. The 2201R’s compact and lightweight feature make it easier to conduct full testing of the radio within the confines of a locomotive cab. The tester has handles at each corner and the battery is conveniently located on the rear panel so that it can be unclipped for easy field replacement.
The device operates in the same bands as GSM – 900 MHz and 1800 MHz – and replaces the earlier analog VHF railway communications systems. The 2201R features the simulation of group calls at various priority levels, including emergency calls, to verify the performance of not only cab and mobile radios but also peripherals such as optical and acoustical alarms. These tests ensure proper functioning of the overall radio system and help to verify that safety functions will work in an emergency. The 2201R also allows voice group calls to and from the mobile to validate bidirectional communication. For a mobile- originated call, the tester decodes the group ID and priority level while performing measurements. Meanwhile, the SMS function in the 2201R helps in retrieving all the necessary parameters used by the phone for transferring messages that will help the technician analyse faulty behaviour.
