Freedom R8100 SERIES, Operator'S Manual

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4.4 ITCR Interoperable Train Control Radio (Positive Train Control)
Positive train control (PTC) is a system of functional requirements for monitoring and controlling
train movements
System Highlights

Train separation or collision avoidance

Line speed enforcement

Temporary speed restrictions

Rail worker wayside safety

Regulate train separation

Avoid train-to-train collisions at track crossover locations

Enforce line speed continuously including temporary speed restrictions

Protect rail worker wayside safety zones

Regulate grade crossings that are out of service

Prevent a train from running over a mainline switch set in the wrong position
PTC system involves two basic components:

Speed display and control unit on the locomotive

A method to dynamically inform the speed control unit of changing track or signal conditions.
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Optionally, three additional components may exist:

An on-board navigation system and track profile database to enforce fixed speed limits

A bi-directional data link to inform signaling equipment of the train's presence

Centralized systems to directly issue movement authorities to trains
References
http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/R42637.pdf Congressional Research Report and Overview
http://www.fra.dot.gov/Page/P0621 DOT overview
Meteorcomm PTC220_Radio_Transmitter_and_Receiver_Test.pdf Example of how to control the
radio in test conditions.
Please consult your Radio’s manufacturer for instructions on how to enable control of the radio
under test conditions.