Positive Train Control and Cab Signaling

RSC 110 delves into the foundational concepts and practical applications of modern railway signaling and control technologies. This technician-level course explores the intricate architecture of advanced train control systems, including the critical components that ensure safe train separation and movement. Students will examine the functions of wayside interface units, which bridge trackside equipment with central control, and investigate the complex electronics integral to cab signaling systems that provide real-time operational information to train operators. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on laboratory exercises designed to simulate real-world troubleshooting and maintenance scenarios. Emphasizing a vendor-neutral approach, the course prepares students for roles involving the installation, maintenance, and diagnostics of sophisticated railway control infrastructure.

InstructorJacob Calhoun

Prerequisites

RSC 101

Course outline

Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.

01Lesson 1: Introduction to Railway Signaling Principleslecture

02Lesson 2: Overview of Advanced Train Control System Architectureslecture

03Lesson 3: Communication Protocols in Rail Control Systemslecture

04Hands-on Lab: Basic Signal System Component Identification and Testinglab

05Lesson 5: Wayside Interface Unit (WIU) Functionality and Designlecture

06Lesson 6: Track Circuit Technologies and Detection Systemslecture

07Lesson 7: Power Supplies and Redundancy in Critical Rail Systemslecture

08Hands-on Lab: Wayside Interface Unit Configuration and Diagnostic Simulationlab

09Lesson 9: Cab Signaling Systems: Display Units and Integrationlecture

10Lesson 10: Onboard Equipment and Train-to-Wayside Communicationlecture

11Hands-on Lab: Cab Signaling System Calibration and Fault Isolationlab

12Lesson 12: Data Logging, Event Recorders, and System Monitoringlecture

13Lesson 13: System Safety and Regulatory Considerationslecture

14Capstone Service Project: Integrated Rail Control System Troubleshooting and Documentationassignment

Syllabus

["Week 1: Lesson 1: Introduction to Railway Signaling Principles","Week 2: Lesson 2: Overview of Advanced Train Control System Architectures","Week 3: Lesson 3: Communication Protocols in Rail Control Systems","Week 4: Hands-on Lab: Basic Signal System Component Identification and Testing","Week 5: Lesson 5: Wayside Interface Unit (WIU) Functionality and Design","Week 6: Lesson 6: Track Circuit Technologies and Detection Systems","Week 7: Lesson 7: Power Supplies and Redundancy in Critical Rail Systems","Week 8: Hands-on Lab: Wayside Interface Unit Configuration and Diagnostic Simulation","Week 9: Lesson 9: Cab Signaling Systems: Display Units and Integration","Week 10: Lesson 10: Onboard Equipment and Train-to-Wayside Communication","Week 11: Hands-on Lab: Cab Signaling System Calibration and Fault Isolation","Week 12: Lesson 12: Data Logging, Event Recorders, and System Monitoring","Week 13: Lesson 13: System Safety and Regulatory Considerations","Week 14: Capstone Service Project: Integrated Rail Control System Troubleshooting and Documentation"]