ProRail’s Adoption of VectaStar for Enhanced Railway Station Security

This article explores the strategic deployment of Cambridge Broadband Networks’ (CBNL) VectaStar solution by ProRail, the Dutch railway infrastructure manager, to bolster security at major railway stations across the Netherlands. The implementation of this 26GHz millimeter-wave wireless backhaul system for a comprehensive CCTV network represents a significant advancement in railway infrastructure security and demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to leveraging cutting-edge technology. The successful integration of VectaStar highlights the increasing importance of robust, high-bandwidth, and cost-effective communication networks for modern railway operations. We will examine the technical aspects of the VectaStar system, the logistical challenges and solutions involved in its deployment, the economic benefits realised by ProRail, and the broader implications of this technology for the future of railway security and management worldwide. The case study of ProRail’s adoption of VectaStar provides valuable insights for other railway operators globally considering similar upgrades to their security infrastructure.

VectaStar Technology and its Advantages

ProRail’s selection of CBNL’s VectaStar system, utilizing Point-to-Multipoint (PMP) millimeter-wave technology operating on the 26GHz frequency band, was driven by several key advantages. Millimeter-wave technology offers significantly higher bandwidth compared to traditional microwave systems, enabling the transmission of large volumes of data required for high-resolution CCTV surveillance across multiple camera locations. The PMP architecture allows for efficient transmission to multiple receiving points from a single transmitting unit, reducing the infrastructure costs associated with point-to-point links. This inherent efficiency translates into both operational and capital expenditure savings. Furthermore, the 26GHz frequency band offers a wider available bandwidth than lower frequency options, ensuring ample capacity to support future expansion and the integration of additional security features. The system’s reported sub-millisecond latency ensures real-time video transmission crucial for effective security monitoring and rapid response to incidents.

Deployment Strategy and Collaboration

The successful deployment of the VectaStar system across 15 major Dutch railway stations, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, and Eindhoven, involved a strategic partnership between ProRail, CBNL, and VCS Observation, an integrated security systems provider. VCS Observation played a crucial role in network deployment and integration, leveraging their expertise in security systems and network infrastructure. This collaborative approach was key to overcoming the logistical challenges of deploying a complex wireless network across numerous geographically dispersed locations. Careful planning and coordination were essential to minimize disruption to ongoing railway operations during the installation and commissioning phases. The project highlighted the importance of choosing partners with both technological and operational expertise to effectively implement large-scale infrastructure upgrades.

Cost-Effectiveness and Return on Investment

A significant benefit highlighted by ProRail and CBNL is the substantial cost savings offered by the VectaStar solution compared to traditional point-to-point microwave or fiber optic alternatives. The reported savings of up to 50% are attributed to the efficient PMP architecture and reduced infrastructure requirements. The economic advantages extend beyond the initial investment, including reduced ongoing maintenance costs associated with the simplified network design and improved network reliability. This demonstrates a clear return on investment (ROI) for ProRail, justifying the technology’s adoption and underscoring its potential for widespread adoption across other railway systems worldwide, particularly in scenarios with limited budget but high demands for security enhancement.

Conclusion: Future Implications for Railway Security

ProRail’s deployment of CBNL’s VectaStar solution showcases a paradigm shift in railway security infrastructure. The successful integration of this advanced wireless backhaul system for CCTV surveillance across major railway stations in the Netherlands demonstrates the potential for significant improvements in security, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. The use of 26GHz millimeter-wave technology with PMP architecture offers substantial advantages over traditional approaches, including increased bandwidth, reduced latency, and lower overall costs. The project’s success underlines the importance of strategic partnerships and collaborative project management in large-scale deployments. The significant cost savings realized by ProRail, estimated at up to 50% compared to alternative technologies, provide a compelling case for wider adoption of this technology in the railway sector. The lessons learned from this successful implementation can inform future upgrades to railway security systems globally, enabling operators to improve safety and security while optimizing resource allocation. The high performance of the VectaStar system, delivering sub-millisecond latency and up to 600 Mbps capacity, ensures reliable and robust data transmission for real-time surveillance, ultimately contributing to enhanced passenger safety and improved operational efficiency. This case study, therefore, serves as a compelling example of innovation in railway technology and its potential to shape the future of railway security infrastructure.