Passenger and freight railway operations rely heavily on wireless communications, and adequate licensed radio spectrum, to improve performance and safety. One key use case, Positive Train Control systems, or PTC, which was Congressionally mandated in 2008, is utilized predominately by Class I and II rail operators. Two leading technologies for these systems are I-ETMS (Interoperable Electronic Train Management System) and ACSES (Advanced Civil Speed Enforcement System). These systems are designed to prevent train-to-train collisions, derailments caused by excessive speeds, unauthorized train movements in work zones, and the movement of trains through switches left in the wrong position. PTC networks enable real-time information sharing between trains, rail wayside devices, and “back office” applications, regarding train movement, speed restrictions, train position and speed, and the state of signal and switch devices.
If you are a rail industry organization seeking to learn more about how licensed spectrum can support the development or expansion of your business, give us a call or email to schedule a consultation.
Select Spectrum — Trains: A Safer Way to Travel