IEC 61375-2-6:2018

Overview

IEC 61375-2-6:2018 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies the requirements for on-board to ground communication in electronic railway equipment. This standard is part of the IEC 61375 series, which focuses on train communication networks (TCN). IEC 61375-2-6 outlines the system architecture, communication interfaces, and protocols to enable reliable, secure, and efficient data exchange between on-board subsystems and ground installations using any available wireless technologies.

The standard’s primary objective is to facilitate seamless, interoperable connectivity between a train’s internal communication network and remote ground-based systems. This enhances operational oversight, maintenance, and control capabilities within railway applications by allowing remote access to on-board Train Control and Management System (TCMS) or Onboard Multimedia and Telecommunication System (OMTS) functionalities.

Key Topics

• System Architecture: Definition of the board-to-ground communication system, system breakdown structures, interface points, and redundancy concepts to ensure reliable and continuous communication.
• Wireless Communication Selection: Specification of how the appropriate wireless network is determined, based on quality of service (QoS) required by applications.
• Protocols and Communication Services: Support for multiple communication protocols, including HTTP(S) and MQTT, and service types such as message data, file transfer, process data, and telemetry.
• Security Measures: Requirements for ensuring data confidentiality, integrity, and authentication through security zones, security measures, and an authorization accounting model.
• Remote Application Access: Mechanisms for remote access to TCMS and/or OMTS applications from ground installations and vice versa, ensuring interoperability and operational efficiency.
• Service Provision and Interfaces: Definition of essential services provided by the Mobile Communication Gateway (MCG) and Ground Communication Gateway (GCG), including train location, train information, telemetry, and wake-up services.

Applications

IEC 61375-2-6:2018 is critical for modern railway systems where digital transformation and connectivity are vital. Key applications include:

• Remote Diagnostics and Maintenance: Ground-based systems can access real-time data and status updates from on-board equipment, supporting predictive maintenance and reducing downtime.
• Operational Management: Enables centralized control and monitoring of train performance, improving safety, scheduling, and energy efficiency.
• Passenger Services: Facilitates delivery of passenger information and on-board entertainment by enabling ground systems to communicate seamlessly with OMTS applications.
• Fleet Management: Provides up-to-date fleet information, train locations, and status updates to ground control centers, supporting efficient asset management.
• Enhanced Security: Separation into security zones and application of robust authentication measures protect critical communication channels and sensitive data.

Related Standards

IEC 61375-2-6:2018 is part of a broader ecosystem of standards for railway communication networks, including:

• IEC 61375-1: General architecture and system requirements for train communication networks.
• IEC 61375-2 Series: Covers detailed implementation of TCN sub-systems such as Ethernet Train Backbone (ETB) and Ethernet Consist Network (ECN).
• IEC 62443: Reference for cybersecurity in industrial automation and control systems, relevant for security implementation in railway communications.
• Other Railway Standards: To ensure full interoperability and safety, IEC 61375-2-6 should be applied alongside other rail and telecommunication standards as referenced within the document.

Practical Value

By providing a comprehensive specification for on-board to ground communication, IEC 61375-2-6:2018 ensures that railway operators, manufacturers, and integrators adopt consistent, interoperable solutions that support safe, reliable, and secure operations. Adoption of this standard streamlines wireless system selection, facilitates maintenance and operation, and enhances passenger experience through robust mobile connectivity between train and ground systems.