Re: Wireless Credit Card Processing => WiFi?
Author: Chris
Date: 03-30-2007 - 02:37
So, Amtrak's going to expand their wireless credit card processing system nationwide, huh?
That's gotta be based on some sort of IP-based cellular or satellite connection.
With that, Amtrak and each train will already have the basic infrastructure to provide WiFi service. It's not quite that simple, but I wonder if Amtrak will eventually provide WiFi on board trains.
I'm not too concerned, since I've got EVDO, but for the majority of travelers out there who aren't willing to spend $80 per month on wireless Internet service, carrier-provided Internet is a nice bonus.
I wonder how the credit card machines will work in the middle of the Rockies or in Moffat Tunnel...
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Sad that MO is pulling most of the funding for Amtrak. I've very nearly used that service (what is it, the Ann Rutledge or the Kansas City Mule or both?) when visiting family in Branson numerous times (but haven't quite had the chance to). I was looking forward to something coming from the rumors that the MO DOT may partner with Amtrak to provide service over the BNSF Cuba sub between Springfield and St. Louis. I would definitely use that multiple times per year as airfares into and out of Springfield are always ridiculously high. But based on this, I wonder how far that will go...
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For the country's sake, I hope AZ residents don't get what they want (the way I read it, they want to be able to tell UP that they can't double-track the Sunset Route). I guess they don't understand how essential rail is to the U.S.'s economy and they don't care if prices go up because more shipments have to go by truck if the rail lines become even more overcrowded. Apparently, controlling inflation isn't worth seeing a few more ugly, noisy trains coming through their back yards. At least Ron McLaughlin's letter to the editor told them to get out of town if they don't like trains.
Oh, and it would be nice to hope that the Sunset Limited might occasionally run on time with two (plus) main tracks available to UP dispatchers--but that might be hoping too much...