Constant uptime
of passenger systems in demanding environments.
JUMP TO: Customer | Challenge | Solution | Results
Customer
As Germany’s national railway company, Deutsche Bahn (DB) is one of the world’s largest railway operators. It runs more than 30,000 high-speed and regional trains daily and serves over 5,000 train stations.
DB’s ICE 4 and ICE 3neo trains feature modern passenger information systems and digital connectivity designed to make train travel comfortable, convenient, and connected.
Challenge
As Deutsche Bahn’s fleet of ICE trains grows, it needed to standardize the implementation of a unified onboard network—separate from safety-critical systems—to support both operational and passenger-facing applications.
A robust 10G network backbone was essential to handle bandwidth needs such as passenger Wi-Fi, real-time data, and entertainment systems—while also simplifying maintenance and enabling future scalability.
Belden’s switches had to integrate directly into onboard systems, allowing real-time monitoring and management from the train—not just from a central office.
Solution
Key to the operator’s end-to-end network solution are Hirschmann BXP Switches from Belden, which enable Deutsche Bahn to support the technology required for existing and future applications—while offering high levels of resilience and availability in a high-speed network environment.
Belden tailored its BXP switches to meet the demands of long-distance rail environments. Customizations included:
- Lengthwise mounting for better space utilization
- OSB (onboard serial bus) integration for internal system communication
- Push-pull connectors for faster installation and easier maintenance
- PXE boot functionality for remote management
- M12 and fiber ports to support rugged, high-speed connections
The new switches withstand constant train vibrations and reduce maintenance effort, while offering consistent performance and high reliability.
Impact & results
The new onboard network backbone provides Deutsche Bahn with the confidence to deploy new digital applications—ensuring seamless operation across the high-speed ICE fleet.
Operators and technicians benefit from easier serviceability, fewer disruptions, and consistent uptime.
The solution guarantees:
Simple scalability
for future applications and technologies.
High levels of cybersecurity
against threats impacting travel and operation.
Belden demonstrates impressive innovative strength and deep understanding of our mobility mission."
Download the case study
Learn how Deutsche Bahn and Belden delivered a reliable and scalable onboard network solution for the ICE 3neo.