Harting features connectivity and RFID solutions for the rail industry

Key products on show include the Han(R) range of heavy-duty connectors, including the Han-Eco(R) family of rugged lightweight devices, inter-vehicle jumper cables, Ethernet switches for signalling applications, har-port services interfaces for USB and Ethernet communications, and RFID for asset management.

A major new development from HARTING is a new design of pluggable inter-car jumper cable which carries electrical power, data and control signals. The jumpers use Han® HPR rectangular connectors to ensure a robust connection to the vehicles, with the addition of industrial-grade Ha-VIS RFID transponders built into the connectors to improve the management and maintenance regime.

The RFID transponder tags give each jumper cable a unique identification, allowing full traceability from the tag attached to the connector. In conjunction with an antenna, lineside readers and purpose-designed software, the transponders allow the operator to monitor the performance of each jumper cable throughout its life. This includes the precise evaluation of wear, facilitating a switch to a condition-based rather than a periodic maintenance regime, reducing both downtime and cost.

Harting's RFID system also allow data recording from fast-moving trains. Successful tests have been carried out on complete HARTING RFID systems involving robust, metal-housed transponders and communications software to allow the recording of data from trains travelling at over 120 km/h. Here, the transponders are mounted on the train and the RFID reader is typically housed in a switching cabinet mounted near the track in conformity with railway standards.