RoofLink – Retrofit with Rooftop Antenna

A rooftop router on a bus or tram has the advantage that only a single Ethernet cable (with Power over Ethernet) needs to be routed to the roof, covering all services such as 5G, Wi-Fi, or GPS.

David Gschwend

Antenna with Integrated 5G Router

Combined antennas for mobile connectivity via 5G, Wi-Fi access, and GPS signal reception already exist. However, each system typically requires its own cable routed to the roof of a bus, tram, or emergency services vehicle. By integrating the router directly into the antenna housing, a single Ethernet cable suffices to support all services. Power is supplied via Power over Ethernet (PoE).

SCS has developed the RoofLink Duo 5G, a router housed directly within a rooftop antenna. It connects externally via two simultaneous 5G mobile connections, Wi-Fi, or GPS/GNSS reception. Inside the vehicle, technologies such as IP×PT, IBIS, IP or CAN are supported to transmit vehicle and passenger information, video surveillance streams, or energy data from the drivetrain. The router also includes processing power for dedicated applications.

Simple Retrofit of Existing Fleets

Especially for public transport and emergency service sectors, a rooftop router enables a straightforward retrofit that digitally upgrades an entire fleet with minimal effort. Possible services include:

  • Fleet telemetry (location, vehicle data, battery status, EcoDrive, etc.)
  • Passenger information (audio and visual)
  • Reliable communication with drivers and passengers
  • Passenger counting, vehicle surveillance, and basic local AI

In addition, full control over the router software allows for the implementation of any custom requirements.

SCS Solution: RoofLink Duo 5G

Rooflink Duo 5G Produktbild (Rendering)

First-generation rooftop router with simultaneous dual-provider 5G connectivity.

  • Reliable cloud connection via a single cable (Ethernet with PoE)
  • Mobile connectivity with 2× 5G MIMO, Dual-SIM-Dual-Active (DSDA), eSIM, Wi-Fi 6
  • Positioning with RTK support
  • Open system without vendor lock-in
  • Data center-grade architecture and security
  • Ready for public transport and emergency services
  • Fully customizable

From battery monitoring in buses, balise localization in trains, and passenger info systems in subways to data aggregation in buses and trams, we’ve supported diverse applications.

How can your business benefit from a simple and open retrofit?

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