Radio Frequency Systems (RFS), the global wireless and broadcast infrastructure specialist, announced that its 7/8” CELLFLEX® foam dielectric coaxial cable has been used in Phase 1 of BAI Canada’s project to build a shared wireless Wi-Fi and cellular infrastructure thatwill enable wirelesscommunications services for Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) riderswithin underground subway stations. The first two stations to launch on the BAI wireless platformwill be Bloor & Yonge and St. George. BAI Canada plans to bring wireless service to 65 underground stations total by 2017.
The new wireless platform will allow transit riders access to real-time alerts, arrival and departure information and transit updates from their personal devices, as well as offer connectivity for the internet, social media, email and many web-based applications. The entire project will cover all public areas including platforms, mezzanines, walkways and stairwells.
RFS’ CELLFLEX foam dielectric cables combine remarkable flexibility with high strength and superior electrical performance. The cable construction allows easy handling and easy preparation for attachment of connectors together with high resistance to connector pull-off. Used as antenna feeders, cabling of antenna arrays, radio equipment interconnections, jumper assemblies or indoor applications, CELLFLEX foam dielectric cables provide a reliable and technically superior solution for many wireless applications.
“When taking on a project of this magnitude to provide consistent, reliable wireless service in underground environments, partnering with the right vendors was critical to our success,” said Brian Jacks, CEO, BAI Canada. “RFS has had proven success in subway system installations and its products are well-known for high quality, flexibility, and the ability to provide outstanding performance.”
BAI Canada selected CELLFLEX because it is a proven product in subway environments and its frequency response covered all of the required bands to meet the demands on the network. BAI’s US company, Transit Wireless, previously tapped RFS to provide support to build a state of the art wireless network in the New York City subway system.
“Delivering wireless service in underground subway stations has many unique challenges that RFS understands well, and has been trusted to overcome in projects around the world,” said Suzanne Kasai, business development manager, enterprise markets, RFS. “We are pleased that our coaxial cable provided the solution BAI Canada needed for the initial phase of this project and look forward to providing additional support in other phases.”