GSM-R: for drivers, signallers and maintainers

Everyone’s role is critical to the reliability, functionality, and the success of the Global System for Mobile Communications – Railway (GSM-R) system.  

If you’re involved with the operation and maintenance of GSM-R Cab Mobile Radio and network, this page provides access to relevant information and documentation for: 

• Drivers & Traincrew. 
• Signallers. 
• GSM-R Cab Radio Maintainers. 
• Electrical Control Operators. 
• Route Control. 
• Others involved with activities such as training and development. 

On this page you’ll find good practice guidance, learning resources and support material. 

For additional information, questions, and support, please contact NRTenquiries@networkrail.co.uk.

GSM-R Terminology 

• Class Specific File (CSF): A configuration file that is loaded into a cab radio when it is installed in a driving cab. The file is created specifically for the class of train it is being used on and ensures that radio functionality is correct. 
• Driver: A person who is responsible for driving rolling stock and who is required to operate the UK Network Rail GSM-R Cab Radio System as part of those driving duties. 
• Fixed Terminal: A GSM-R terminal which is installed in a fixed location.  
• GSM-R: Global System Mobile Communications – Railway. 
• TRN: Train Running Number (sometimes referred to as the ‘Head Code’). A four-digit alphanumeric code allocated to each train journey. 
• Maintainer: A person who is responsible for installing, testing and maintaining the UK GSM-R Cab Radio System fitted to rolling stock that operates on Network Rail GSM-R infrastructure. 
• Network Rail Phonebook: A file installed on a GSM-R cab radio which allows the driver to search for and select telephone numbers that have been designated by Network Rail for driver use. 
• REC Call: Railway Emergency Call which can be initiated by a driver or signaller, including Track Workers and Train Staff. 
• Driver Registration: The process of registering a Cab Radio for use on the UK GSM-R Network. 
• Signaller: A person who is responsible for controlling the movement and direction of trains on Network Rail infrastructure by operating railway signals and points and who is required to operate the UK GSM-R track-to-train communication system as part of those signalling duties. 
• TOC Phonebook: A file installed on a GSM-R cab radio which allows the driver to search for and select telephone numbers that have been designated by the Railway Undertaking for driver use. 
• VMI; Vehicle Maintenance Instructions: A set of instructions which provide technical instructions and guidance for the maintainer. 
• NFF:  No Fault Found  
• PMU:  Portable Maintenance Unit; Siemens Cab Radio software tool installed on maintenance laptops. 

Learning Resources and Good Practice

GSM-R Rail Operations Support Documentation

Please contact the relevant key stakeholder of the documentation listed below.  For any additional support, please contact NRTenquiries@networkrail.co.uk 

• RSSB GSM-R Handbook RS523. (Driver, Operations Controller, Signaller, Train Operator Controller) 
• RIS-0794-CCS GSM-R Train Voice Radio System. 
• RIS-3780-TOM Operational Requirements for GSM-R Radio 
• Network Rail Signallers GSM-R Fixed Terminal User Guide. 
• Network Rail National Operating Procedure 3.05 Radio Communication Failures  
• Driver Operational Portable Handset (OPH) User Guide 2017 – NRTenquiries@networkrail.co.uk 
• Driver and TOC Terminal Training Guidance – NRTenquiries@networkrail.co.uk 

Note: Other GSM-R operational standards and guidance available from www.rssb.co.uk 

Siemens GSM-R Cab Radio Maintenance Support Documentation 

This documentation forms part of the GSM-R v4.0 technical file and Generic documentation, distributed to all Train Operating Companies 

In addition, please contact NRTenquiries@networkrail.co.uk for any documentation listed below. 

Network Rail Maintenance Support Documentation

• Train Operator GSM-R Phonebook Upgrade Procedure (November 2020)
• GSM-R Cab Radio Change Out: Provisioning (In Service) Guidance (CCMS2:65267135 ) (July 2015)
• Network Rail UK Phonebook (1200 – Phonebook 2)
• On site Cab Radio maintenance briefing, refresher packages.
• Maintainer training material and information.
• On Train Passenger Announcement (OTPA) progress updates.

Siemens Technical Support

The Siemens 24/7 Technical Support telephone number is 08447360005.

• The call will be logged / recorded and responded to by the following day during office hours 09:00 to 16:00 hrs Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays).
• Please have all details prepared including:
  • Name and operating company you are representing.
  • Position or grade and location.
  • Contact telephone number.
  • Class of vehicle (please include if Dual Driver Control Panel (DCP) or Single Loco DCP operation.
  • Full details of issue.
• Please contact customersupport.ts@siemens.com for any other Siemens support

For matters relating to PMU Licence, software instruction and GPS orientation files, please contact 08447360005.

GSM-R Live Bulletins

Bulletins are numbered in publication order. Bulletin numbers which have been withdrawn can be obtained by contacting NRTenquiries@networkrail.co.uk