Vodafone Launches 5G Antennas to Improve Tunnel Coverage

Vodafone has launched advanced 5G antennas to improve mobile coverage in tunnels and eliminate signal dead zones along high-traffic transport routes. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Vodafone Enhances Tunnel Coverage with Innovative 5G Antennas

Vodafone Germany has introduced a new generation of conical multi-band 5G antennas to address poor connectivity in road and rail tunnels. The operator installed five antennas in the 1,400-meter Arlinger Tunnel near Pforzheim.

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Developed with Ericsson, these antennas support multiple frequencies across LTE and 5G bands. Their cone shape offers high wind resistance and stability, ideal for the harsh tunnel environment.

Passing trains and vehicles generate strong air movement, often shaking antennas and disrupting mobile signals. These new antennas counteract that, maintaining strong and stable performance.

Vodafone’s network development head, Marc Hoelzer, explained that improving tunnel reception requires durable technology that can withstand structural vibration and wind pressure. These antennas meet that need effectively.

Commuters will now experience fewer dropped calls and more consistent data speeds while traveling through long tunnels. The antenna’s 2×2 MIMO feature ensures optimized 5G service throughout the tunnel.

Vodafone Plans Wider Rollout Across German Tunnels

Germany’s federal highways include more than 270 tunnels, totaling 270 km, while rural and urban roads add another 350 km. Vodafone plans to expand this antenna technology to at least 20 additional tunnels.

In shorter tunnels, entry and exit antennas often provide sufficient coverage. For longer sections, Vodafone uses repeaters and internal antennas to extend signals along the route.

Because tunnel upgrades often require temporary closures, Vodafone coordinates antenna installations with scheduled maintenance to minimize disruptions. One main operator typically manages tunnel infrastructure, while other providers connect through shared systems.

Elsewhere, Boldyn Networks is deploying a major project in the London Underground. The company signed a 20-year deal with Transport for London to provide mobile service across the Tube network using radiating cables and powerful signal units.

This mirrors Vodafone’s efforts, as both companies address mobile blackouts in difficult underground environments where signal reliability is now essential.

Source, photo: www.mobileeurope.co.uk

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