Re: coded track circuits and PTS
Author: MikeF
Date: 09-15-2008 - 23:54
OPB, thanks for your thorough post.
I'm wondering how much of the resistance to this technology is the classic 'not invented here' syndrome. Each RR has their own way of doing things, and each equipment vendor says 'my way is best'.
It would seem that standardization and interoperability of coded track circuit equipment (based on current requirements and known future goals) must happen first and A.S.A.P (or has it happened?). This would at least let RR's and loco mfrs put cab signaling equipment (for starters) in all locomotives and plan/budget for signaling upgrades. After working out kinks that will happen, ATS/PTS of some sort could come later.
Continuous incremental improvement is relatively affordable and may even fend off some ambulance chasers who say that 'the RR isn't doing anything to improve safety'.