Nomad Digital and Blu Wireless announce mmWave rollout in US

Together, they have successfully implemented Blu Wireless’ mmWave wireless system, LightningBlu for onboard Wi-Fi on Caltrain's electrified commuter railway service. 

This collaboration will be brought to life at InnoTrans, which takes place this week, 24–27 September 2024 in Berlin. 

Blu Wireless' state-of-the-art LightningBlu technology, which has delivered fast connectivity speeds to train passengers right across San Francisco will be showcased at the exhibition. 

Mark Barrett, Chief Commercial Officer for Blu Wireless, said: "This project marks an important milestone for Blu Wireless, demonstrating our ability to deliver a world-leading mmWave solution that meets the unique demands of the railway environment”. 

“Our partnership with Nomad Digital has been key in successfully implementing this pioneering LightningBlu mmWave technology”. 

“The entire Blu Wireless team and I look forward to what the future holds for this partnership and the potential of this technology. Announcing this the week of InnoTrans is a great way to celebrate this progress.” 

Jeremy Haskins, Connectivity and Services Solution Director from Alstom, said: “Collaborating with Blu Wireless has enabled us to apply our extensive experience in the rail technology space to deliver an advanced solution for high-speed wireless connectivity with Caltrain, improving passenger experience and setting a new standard for digital connectivity in the San Francisco area." 

Key features of LightningBlu include: 

• Minimal interference with other systems due to the use of the unlicensed 57–71GHz spectrum 
• Extended range between access points (approximately 1.2km) compared to traditional Wi-Fi solutions (400–500 metres) 
• Reduced infrastructure needs with fewer access points required along the route 

The wireless implementation is part of Caltrain's broader modernisation efforts, which include fleet electrification and enhanced passenger services. 

Alstom's extensive experience in designing and deploying wireless networks for railways, with over 200 operational networks globally, was a key factor in the project's success.  

Blu Wireless, and Nomad Digital are eager to continue their new partnership and celebrate its success at this year's InnoTrans, with plans to explore potential applications across a range of rail environments, including metro systems, regional railways and airports. 

Senior representatives from Blu Wireless, and Nomad Digital will be available at InnoTrans to discuss the broader implications of this partnership.