Shortline Sammie Wrote:
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> Class I's and most regionals use different radio
> channels for different districts and are
> controlled by microwave or fiber from the dispatch
> centers.
>
> A train "keys up" a particular tower by punching
> in a unique 4-digit DTMF (Touch Tone) code which
> lights up a screen and alerts the dispatcher
> covering the area where it is having problems who
> in turn tells "Dr. Goodwrench" the train that is
> affected and which tower to reply on. The "heads
> up" from the dispatcher gives the help desk time
> to pull up the EMD or GE diagnostics screen and
> formulate a response.
>
> Unlike a regular dispatcher's screen which covers
> his (as well as adjacent)regions, the motive power
> and signal "help desks" can access any base
> station on the system.
>
> In regards to your question about interference;
> other trains within say a 30 mile radius will hear
> the conversation but tower locations and channel
> spacing minimize the problem.
>
> Have a safe holiday weekend!
>
> Dick Samuels
> Oregon Pacific Railroad

Mr Samuels... tks for your response.
And may you and yours likewise have a great weekend.