Positive Train Control Tech Brief

Positive train control (PTC) is the practice of monitoring and, when necessary, remotely controlling trains. Per federal mandate, PTC networks must be in place and operational for all railroads operating in the US by 2015. Of course, positive train control means maintaining a large network, with many elements distributed in wayside enclosures near the tracks.

If you want to keep the trains moving safely and beat the deadline, you're going to have to understand the basic concepts of PTC and how to maintain a PTC network.