Zenitel, in partnership with Telent, has successfully upgraded the Public Address and Voice Alarm (PAVA) systems across nine stations on the Jubilee Line Extension (JLE), transforming the audio landscape for millions of London commuters.

Transport for London (TfL), one of the world’s most iconic public transport networks, turned to Telent to design, integrate, and install a modern, high-performance PAVA system to replace the 24-year-old legacy equipment along the JLE. The existing infrastructure, a combination of Millbank Electronics hardware and ASL software, had reached the end of its useful life and was due for a major technological refresh.

Meeting the Challenge

The project called for EN 54-certified, factory-tested systems with a 10–15-year operational lifespan, lower power consumption, and seamless integration with Telent’s MICA SMS control system. All of this had to be delivered with minimal disruption to daily operations and while retaining as much of the existing infrastructure as possible—including loudspeakers, cabling, and platform microphone housings.

To facilitate uninterrupted service during the transition, new systems were installed alongside the old ones in existing communications rooms—a challenge that demanded compact and efficient equipment. After assessing various manufacturers, Telent selected Zenitel, thanks to its technical expertise, industry experience, and flexible approach to system integration.

A State-of-the-Art Solution

Zenitel selected its VIPEDIA-based PAVA platform, featuring:

• VIPEDIA-12-NET audio routers
• V2000 amplifier mainframes with integrated EN 54-4 battery chargers
• IP-enabled SAP03 Station Announcement Points over existing coaxial cabling
• Hundreds of ANS04-ES analogue ambient noise sensors with IP conversion
• Advanced EOLZ01 impedance monitoring devices for loudspeaker line integrity

These solutions provided improvements in Speech Transmission Index (STI) performance—despite the legacy loudspeaker setups—through highly configurable parametric EQs.

Zenitel also collaborated closely with Telent to design a custom front panel, allowing new Zenitel SAP03 electronics to be installed inside existing Millbank Electronics enclosures, enabling a straightforward “over-and-back” program.

Seamless Control and Smart Integration

Another key innovation was the use of Zenitel’s VIPA-API, enabling tight integration with Telent’s MICA SMS system for advanced control, automation, scheduling, and pre-recorded announcements. The entire solution runs over IP, ensuring future scalability and streamlined operations.

Results that Resonate.

The new system not only delivers outstanding sound quality and reliable emergency communication but also slashes power consumption by an impressive 50%—dramatically reducing long-term system costs.

Zenitel’s collaboration with Telent on this upgrade highlights both companies’ commitment to improving UK rail infrastructure and services.

“This upgrade sets a new standard for transport audio systems. We are proud to have supported Telent and TfL in delivering this essential project for one of the busiest rail lines in the capital,” said a spokesperson from Zenitel.

Find out more here:

zenitel.com