Signaling & Operations
Signal systems, dispatching, and the control logic that authorizes every movement.
- Automatic Block Signal (ABS)
An Automatic Block Signal system divides track into blocks protected by wayside signals that display aspects based on the occupancy of the block ahead, without dispatcher intervention.
- Centralized Traffic Control (CTC)
CTC is a signal and train control system that allows a remote dispatcher to remotely operate switches and signals over a defined territory, managing all train movements from a central location.
- Dark Territory
Dark territory is railroad track that operates without any signal system, where train movements are governed entirely by track warrants and direct crew communication.
- Dispatcher
A railroad dispatcher is the operations control employee responsible for authorizing and managing all train movements within an assigned territory, issuing track authorities, and coordinating with crews, MOW, and maintenance departments.
- Positive Train Control (PTC)
PTC is the FRA-mandated system that automatically enforces speed restrictions and prevents train-to-train collisions, over-speed derailments, and unauthorized incursions into work zones.