The video was sent from the train whilst simultaneously sending a level crossing camera video stream back to the train. The trial was achieved using Nomad Digital WiMAX radio technology. COE recently signed a partner agreement with Nomad Digital for its WiMAX technology solution and this trial demonstrates the potential of this system.

Live video streaming to/from a moving train is a major technological breakthrough. It enables security monitoring of the inside of a train from a remote control centre which until now has been unachievable due to the very limited wireless connectivity to/from the moving train. Railway staff can now see what is happening within the train which has major implications in disaster or terrorist situations where decisions can be reinforced by visual information.

"Existing methods of providing in-train security will be revolutionised. Immediate access to video for operating staff is now feasible which in turn means improved security and safety for passengers. Nomad Digital has created a new market by pioneering WiMAX and 3G radio services on trains. We are delighted to be working with them" says Andrew Wallace, chief executive officer of COE Group plc.

"COE's extensive experience of video systems in rugged environments together with the quality of their codecs and their readiness to optimise the technology for this application was key to the success of the this trial" comments Dr Nigel Wallbridge, executive chairman of Nomad Digital.

The CalTrain trial is just one example of how the technology can be used. Any mobile system can benefit from high bandwidth network access and high quality digital video streaming. COE's technology played a significant role in the delivery and success of this trial system. COE's reference sites include the Singapore SMRT, Delhi Metro, Hong Kong KCRC, Düsseldorf and Valencia metro systems. On the Singapore North East Line COE designed and delivered a live security video system for in-carriage monitoring which is now in service along the 19 station route and provides video streams to station based control centres from every carriage in the train.