Train passengers were able to check e-mail, download files and watch streaming videos.

Sensoria Corp. which develops mobile mesh networking software and equipment, last month demonstrated high-speed Internet access on a train moving 79 miles per hour, making Caltrain the first U.S. rail service to provide broadband services.

Sensoria, which is based in San Diego, together with its partners Nomad Digital, Intel and Redline Communications, completed a “proof of concept” for Caltrain commuter rail service for wireless broadband connectivity. Participants deemed the concept a success when multiple people surfed the Internet simultaneously, watched streaming video, answered e-mail and completed large file download all while maintaining continuous connectivity at broadband speed over 16 miles of rail track between the Millbrae and Palo Alto stations.

“Radio communication on trains creates a unique challenge due to the mobility and harsh environment,” says Dave Gelvin, Sensoria CEO. “Sensoria’s equipment, originally developed for the military, is a perfect fit because the network self-assembles and maintains a reliable connection in all environments.”

Caltrain is the first U.S. rail line to provide broadband service.

Caltrain runs from San Francisco through the heart of Silicon Valley, and its customers are very tech savvy, commuting to well-known high-tech and biotech companies, as well as world-class universities. Providing a seamless broadband wireless network based on WiMAX technology would allow Caltrain customers to work from their laptops and turn their commute time into productive office time.

Sensoria’s EnRoute500 wireless mesh routers provide connectivity to riders throughout the train and serve as the WiFi access points within each car. More engineering work is required before the service will be available throughout the rail line.