EN 61375-3-4:2014/A11:2017

Overview

EN 61375-3-4:2014/A11:2017 is a European standard published by CLC that defines the specifications for the Ethernet Consist Network (ECN), a key component of the Train Communication Network (TCN) used in electronic railway equipment. This amendment (A11) updates and supplements the original EN 61375-3-4:2014 standard, ensuring alignment with the latest technological and regulatory requirements for railway communication systems.

The ECN standard addresses the communication architecture and protocols for Ethernet-based networking within individual train consists, enhancing interoperability, reliability, and communication efficiency across railway vehicles. This standard supports compliance with the EU Directive 2008/57/EC related to rail system interoperability, making it essential for railway manufacturers and operators in Europe.

Key Topics

• Scope and Purpose

  • Definition of Ethernet Consist Network (ECN) within the Train Communication Network framework
  • Standardization of digital communication among electronic railway equipment within a train consist
  • Facilitates interoperability between different rolling stock components and subsystems

• Technical Framework

  • Ethernet-based communication protocols tailored for reliable data exchange in railway environments
  • Structured network topology supporting consist-level communications among multiple vehicles
  • Fault detection, safety signaling, and passenger alarm integration within the communication network

• Compliance and Implementation

  • Amendment A11 introduces modifications and annexes supporting EU Directive 2008/57/EC compliance
  • Essential Requirements (ER) coverage ensuring compatibility with interoperability standards for rolling stock (locomotives and passenger vehicles)
  • Harmonization of national standards across CENELEC member countries for unified railway communication solutions

• Documentation and Version Control

  • The amendment includes Annex ZZ providing an informative relationship between this standard and EU regulatory requirements
  • Official language versions: English, French, and German, with provisions for authorized translations by CENELEC members
  • Clear deadlines for adoption and withdrawal of conflicting national standards to maintain consistency

Applications

• Rolling Stock Communication Systems

  • Implementation of Ethernet Consist Networks in locomotives and passenger car consists
  • Ensures real-time, reliable communication for train control, diagnostic, and passenger service systems

• Interoperability in European Rail Networks

  • Enables seamless integration of electronic systems across diverse railway vehicle types and manufacturers
  • Facilitates compliance with EU Rail System Directive 2008/57/EC to promote Europe-wide rail transport interoperability

• Safety and Passenger Communication

  • Integration of safety-critical signaling such as brake state and fault indications
  • Supports passenger alarms and communication devices, enhancing onboard security and response capabilities

• Digital Transformation in Railway Engineering

  • Provides a foundation for upgrading traditional train communication networks to robust Ethernet-based platforms
  • Supports future technology enhancements including IoT applications and advanced diagnostics within rolling stock

Related Standards

• EN 61375 Series - Train Communication Network (TCN)

  • Part 1: General architecture and communication principles of TCN
  • Part 2: Wire Train Bus (WTB) standard for train-level communication
  • Other parts addressing different networking layers and applications for railway communication systems

• EU Directive 2008/57/EC

  • Establishes essential requirements for rail system interoperability within the European Union
  • Key legislation supported by EN 61375-3-4 amendments for rolling stock communication compliance

• CENELEC and CEN Standards

  • Harmonized electrotechnical standards across European railway systems
  • Coordination with national committees from member states ensuring unified application of railway communication protocols

By adhering to EN 61375-3-4:2014/A11:2017, railway industry professionals ensure the deployment of standardized, interoperable Ethernet communication networks within train consists, promoting safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance across European rail transport infrastructure.