CalAmp Corp., a provider of wireless products, services and solutions, recently announced its interoperable Positive Train Control (PTC) system will be provided for the Southern California Regional Rail Authority's (SCRRA) Metrolink commuter rail network. CalAmp has signed the contract with Parsons Corporation, the prime contractor for the Metrolink PTC system.
Positive Train Control, which integrates command, communications and information systems for controlling train movements with security, precision and efficiency, will be an integral part of the five-county, 500-mile Southern California Commuter Rail network. A PTC system can track the location and speed of a train more accurately than was previously possible. Typical PTC systems will include speed display and control units on the train and communications equipment to inform the control unit of changing track or signal conditions. Other components include a navigation system and track profile database to enforce fixed speed limits, a bidirectional data link to inform signaling equipment of the train's presence and a centralized system to directly issue movement authorities to trains.
"As the designer and builder of the original prototype radio hardware for the national interoperable PTC Overlay System, we are extremely gratified to see our vision become a reality," said Mike Zachan, general manager of CalAmp's Wireless Networks business. "And as a Southern California-based company, we are proud to be providing proven wireless communications equipment for Metrolink's PTC deployment that will help increase safety for our local commuter rail network and its passengers."
"The Parsons team is excited to work with CalAmp on this challenging interoperable PTC deployment -- the first of its kind in the country. CalAmp's decades of experience in delivering highly reliable industrial and mission-critical communications products, service and support will serve the Metrolink project well. And the responsiveness of CalAmp's team is helping make our ambitious deployment schedule possible," said Paul Wadum, key account manager for Parsons Corporation.
Edited by
Rachel Ramsey
