Railway Signalling Terms
This page will be continuously updated… Absolute Block A system of controlling rail traffic, where (under normal operations) only one train is allowed in the Block Section at a time. Proof … Continue reading
Track Circuit
Most railroads use track circuits to determine which sections of track are occupied by trains. These devices are actually fairly simple in design, and have been in use since 1872. … Continue reading
Balise
Balise is an electronic beacon or transponder placed between the rails of a railway as part of an automatic train protection (ATP) system. Transmission device (passive transponder) that can send telegrams (or tele-powering) … Continue reading
Axle Counter
An axle counter is a device on a railway that detects the passing of a train between two points on a track. A counting head (or detection point) is installed … Continue reading
European Rail Traffic Management System
The European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) is an initiative backed by the European Union to enhance cross-border interoperability and the procurement of signalling equipment by creating a single Europe-wide standard for train control and command … Continue reading
Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC)
Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) is a railway signaling system that makes use of the telecommunications between the train and track equipment for the traffic management and infrastructure control. By means of the CBTC systems, the exact position … Continue reading
Metro Automation
In metro systems, automation refers to the process by which responsibility for operation management of the trains is transferred from the driver to the train control system. There are various … Continue reading