Wellington Station Interlocking on the Orange Line © Alstom Transport

Track Circuits
54
 New Signaling for This signal replacement
Boston’s Orange Metro Line project included the
installation of new track
circuits, switch machines,
Seamless Integration to train stop devices, signal
State-of-the-Art Systems rooms and cabling
throughout the project.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation

Authority (MBTA) decided to resignal the
northern portion of the 30-year old Orange
metro line to make it more reliable and to
minimize service delays. In January 2003, The installation of
Alstom was awarded a subcontract to supply this new system has
significantly improved
new signaling and control systems for this system reliability and
project. throughput while at the
same time allowing for
The scope entailed all final and interim increased operational
flexibility.
designs, all materials, training, field testing
and commissioning required for the complete
replacement of the existing relay-based
signaling system. Alstom provided 8 new
control locations (7 bungalows and 1 Yard Alstom met the testing
Tower room) complete with Vital Process phase challenge
whereby more than 50%
Interlocking (VPI), AF Track Circuits and Non- had to be conducted
vital Programmable Logic Control (PLC) with a with minimal
interruptions to the
fully functional state-of-the-art signal system. operating system.
The new equipment was installed over seven
miles of two and three track territory at five
Interlockings and one Yard Tower.

In This Section:
Genrakode™ II and III WEE-Z® Impedance Bonds
Genrakode™ Code T Receiver Coils
Genrakode™ Test Unit Microseismic Railway
Dual Code Audio Frequency Monitoring System (MRMS)
Track Circuit

55
 > Genrakode™ Track Circuit
and Communication System
Track Circuits

The latest generation of Genrakode™ adds new The Genrakode main board, with Intelligent
features to the reliability, maintainability and value Diagnostics, a built-in Data Logger and point &
for which the product has become known. First click configuration, makes the Genrakode system a
developed in 1989, the Genrakode Track Circuit truly exceptional value.
and Communications System is a family of micro- This microprocessor-based system for train detection
processor-based modules used for vital signal clear- and cab signaling is ideal for all rail applications.
ing and train detection, non-vital block indication,
and non-vital initiation of signal tumble-down. The flexible, cost-effective system allows for
Genrakode is a DC-coded, bidirectional system fully eliminating pole lines and relays and adding
compatible with Electrocode™ IV. signaling to dark territory.

Genrakode™ II Genrakode™ III

Ordering Information
For assistance in ordering Genrakode products, please go to the Alstom website for online configuration of Genrakode module
ordering number or contact the Alstom Customer Service Center at 800-717-4477.

56 CALL 800.717.4477 • FAX 585.274.8777

 > Genrakode™ Track Circuit
and Communication System

Track Circuits
Maintainability
> No periodic testing of receiver modules

> Intelligent diagnostics

> Code T provides advanced diagnostics

> Simple design that is easy to maintain

Value
> Huge cost savings by elimination of pole lines
and relays

> Flexible design that is compatible with all

major track circuits and interlockings

> Integrated data logger at no additional cost

> User programmable Genrakode™ II Modules being installed in a

housing unit at the Rochester, NY facility

Genrakode II Genrakode III

CPU

GTP

Low Power
VPC

Receiver

©2011 Alstom Signaling Inc. www.alstomsignalingsolutions.com 57

 > Genrakode™ Track Circuit
and Communication System
Track Circuits

Features
Cab Signaling Automatic Receiver Checking – Reduces
> Three cab signal modules are available, each Maintenance
capable of driving the 5 standard cab signal > Automatic receiver level checking lowers
rates: 75, 120, 180, 270, 420 PPM. maintenance costs by eliminating the
> Carrier frequencies of 60 Hz, 100Hz, and 250 requirement for manual periodic verification.
Hz are available

Remote Operation Regulated Lamp Drive Voltage Maximizes Signal

> Serial communications link at intermediate Bulb Life
signal locations provides additional flexibility by > The output voltage is regulated for both input
permitting remote control of signals and codes voltage and lamp load current changes.
> Therefore, signal lamps can be operated at a
Enhanced CAA constant lamp voltage.
> Enhanced Computer Aided Application (CAA)
package. Includes editing and printing features
that accelerate the application process Isolated Logic Power Supply
> Improves lightning and noise immunity.
Ground Fault Detection
> Integrated within the Genrakode unit –
no additional or external equipment needed Track to Line Board Simplifies Code Rerouting
> Has a field adjustable detection threshold
> Track-to-Line board simplifies application when
> Is automatically cycle checked to verify proper
applying Genrakode in dark territory with
operation
existing DC crossing circuits.
> When combined with Code T, can remotely
report the status of proper operation and
ground fault status Serial Communication Eliminates Relay
Interfaces
Intelligent Diagnostics – Increases Availability > A serial communications link between
> Intelligent diagnostics and built-in battery- Genrakode and VPI is available which reduces
backed data logger provides a time and date- cost by eliminating relay interfaces and reducing
stamped log of all external events as well as any the number of discrete wires required.
internal fault.
PC-Based Simulator
Cable Integrity Check – Reduces Troubleshooting > A full featured PC based Simulator is available
to assist in the development and evaluation of
> Optional Cable integrity check provides
the application programming.
additional security by detecting external
cable failures.
Long Track Circuit length
> Track circuits lengths of up to 29,000 feet are
attainable (welded rail, 10 ohms DC ballast).

58 CALL 800.717.4477 • FAX 585.274.8777

 > Genrakode™ II Modules

Track Circuits
Intermediate Module
The Intermediate Module supports two track circuits
and signals for both directions. It is used at intermedi-
ate signal locations to transmit and decode line circuit
information via the rails from adjacent modules. Since
the module drives signal lamps and mechanisms directly
and performs all lightout detection, no relays are required.

The Intermediate Module can directly drive up to six indi-

vidual color light signal aspects or up to two searchlight
mechanisms in each direction. Outputs are continuously
checked for correct state and all lamps are checked to
Genrakode™ II insure that filaments are intact. Optional cable integrity
Intermediate Module
checking is also available.

Reliability Also featured are options which permit signals to be

> No safety notice in over 20 years of operation approach-lit or approach-lit only when AC power is lost.
A dedicated input on the Auxiliary I/O Board may be used
> Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) rating
to approach-light the signal when AC power is lost, thus
of 18.7 years
reducing the drain on the batteries. Auxiliary inputs are
> Over 78 million hours in field operation provided which allow the displayed aspect to be down-
graded. These inputs are typically used for switch control-
> Installed at over 35 customer properties lers, slide fences and other equipment.
around the world
Control Point Module
> Safety Assurance Logic (SAL) for The Control Point Module supports up to two indepen-
fail-safe operation
dent track circuits when interfacing with the interlocking
Cab Signal Module relay logic at the location, via discreet inputs and outputs
or up to 8 independent track circuits when interfacing
Cab signaling is used in conjunction with the Control Point, directly to a VPI Interlocking Control System. It is used
Repeater, Switch Lock, and Intermediate Modules. The at end-of-block signal locations to initiate code transmis-
traditional 100Hz rate coded, or two-aspect ON/OFF cab sion to other signal locations through the rails, decode
signal system is implemented by overlaying the cab signaling signals from the rails, energize relay outputs reflecting the
onto the GENRAKODE track circuit. 60Hz and 250Hz carrier decoded line circuit information and optionally to generate
frequencies are also available. cab signal rates.
Switch Lock Module Repeater Module
The Switch Lock Module supplies all functions necessary at The Repeater Module is used at cut sections and is used
a switch lock location including line circuit signal control, to extend distances between signal locations. The codes
series track circuit lock release, siding timer release, switch transmitted from the repeater are re-generated, minimiz-
lock magnet control and padlock contact direction. ing distortions and increasing system reliability.

©2011 Alstom Signaling Inc. www.alstomsignalingsolutions.com 59

 > Genrakode™ III Track Circuit
and Communication System
Track Circuits

The new and improved GenrakodeTM III consists of 2-3

boards, plus a Track Interface Module for electrified
territory – a much smaller form factor.

When GenrakodeTM III units are installed as part of a

Track Circuit system, they will operate autonomously,
without direct user interaction. Therefore user interaction
is limited to the following scenarios:

> Initial Configuration: Each GTP board will be

programmed with location specific application logic
responsible for controlling the behavior of the vital
I/O. This application is created using the GTP CAA.

> Maintenance and Field Configuration:

GenrakodeTM III provides maintenance status
indications to aid in maintenance as well as specific
Cab Signal Module Event and Error Logging to assist in diagnosis
of anomalies.
Cab signaling is used in conjunction with the Control
Point, Repeater, Switch Lock, and Intermediate
The GenrakodeTM III system has a number of
Modules. The traditional 100Hz rate coded, or two-
external interfaces:
aspect ON/OFF cab signal system is implemented by
overlaying the cab signaling onto the GENRAKODE
> Two track interfaces (track clearing code
track circuit. 60Hz and 250Hz carrier frequencies are
also available. transmit/receive, series overlay)
> Four Cab outputs
Switch Lock Module
> Differential vital and non-vital I/O
The Switch Lock Module supplies all functions neces- (Auxio board)
sary at a switch lock location including line circuit > Configurable vital jumpers (Switchlock I/O)
signal control, series track circuit lock release, siding
and non-vital switches (Auxio)
timer release, switch lock magnet control and padlock
> RS-232 Serial and USB Type B port for
contact direction.
programming and terminal access
Repeater Module > Front panel LEDs and mode switches
> Configurable site and revision ID switches
The Repeater Module is used at cut sections and is
used to extend distances between signal locations. The
Ethernet Interface is in development and can be
codes transmitted from the repeater are re-generated,
available to your system for more information on
minimizing distortions and increasing system reli-
availability please call 1-800-717-4477
ability.

60 CALL 800.717.4477 • FAX 585.274.8777

 > Genrakode™ III GTP Board

Track Circuits
The Main Board in a GenrakodeTM III is the GTP.

GTP Functions

> Vital Power Control: The GTP board generates its own vital energy
with which to drive its vital outputs. It also vitally arbitrates similar
energies on all other boards within the GenrakodeTM III chassis. In
this way, vital power control (VPC) is centralized.

> Process Application Logic: Behavior of the GenrakodeTM III system

is controlled by user-defined application logic. The Logic Controller
(LGC) processes all user application logic in a vital manner.
All system out puts states are commanded based on the states of
the system inputs (vital and non-vital) and the user-defined
application logic.

> Transmit and Receive Signal Clearing Codes: The GTP board is
capable of vitally transmitting and receiving Genrakode track
clearing codes from two independent track circuits.

> Transmit Cab Signals: The GTP board is capable of vitally

transmitting two cab signals overlaid onto each of the two
track circuits.

Genrakode™ III
> Field Programmability: GenrakodeTM III applications and all vital GTP Board
system software are field programmable/updatable.

> iVPI Interoperability: The GTP board provides a vital interface for
iVPI to communicate vital I/O parameters. When the GTP board is
inserted into an iVPI chassis, this communication occurs through a
vital protocol using dual port RAM. In stand-alone mode, an
Ethernet interface is being developed, most likely running Vital
Serial over Ethernet (VSoE).

> User Interface: The GTP board provides a serial interface for
querying system state, viewing logs and other maintenance
functions, and for programming all vital software components.
It is accessible through standard RS-232 and Universal Serial
Bus (USB).

©2011 Alstom Signaling Inc. www.alstomsignalingsolutions.com 61

 > Genrakode™ Code T
Track Circuits

The Revolutionary Railroad Communication System from Alstom Expand

your remote monitoring capabilities without expanding your budget
with Genrakode and Genrakode Code T
Genrakode™ Code T provides an additional non-vital communications channel at no additional cost. Using the rails as the
communications medium, non-vital communications can be received at the ends of the signaling block from all locations
within the block. A unique location ID as well as a specific message identification allows the source of each message to be
precisely pinpointed. By interlacing the non-vital messages with the existing vital train detection and vital signaling, remote
monitoring eliminates the need for trenching cable or expensive radio communications systems.

Genrakode Code T potential uses include:

> Monitoring of grade crossing health
> Intrusion alarm reporting
> Signal filament status
> Status of commercial power

Benefits
Genrakode Code T applications can help
simplify your maintenance activities, save
you thousands of dollars and keep you in
constant communication with your
remote wayside locations.

Additional communication channel at no extra cost

By combining traditional train detection
and vital communications through the rail with
a binary coding scheme, Genrakode now provides Code T GUI

a secondary communication channel

that can be used for any non-vital signaling need.

Save cost by reducing the size of your battery system

Simply use Code T to monitor the status of the commercial AC power that keeps your batteries fully charged. As soon as
power is lost, you can be notified giving you ample time to avoid failure due to discharged batteries.

Remotely monitor the status of your grade crossing equipment

Use Code T to extract critical health information that can be reported back to a central location or dispatching office.

Ordering Information
For assistance in ordering a Genrakode II system or Genrakode Code T, please go to the Alstom website for online
configuration of Genrakode module ordering number or contact Alstom Customer Service Center at 800-717-4477.

62 CALL 800.717.4477 • FAX 585.274.8777

 > Genrakode™ Test Unit

Track Circuits
Features
> Rugged design – housed in a
protective case and operates
from -20° to +70° Celsius
> Portable – lightweight and
easy to transport
> Easy to use – user-friendly,
intuitive console
> Wide power voltage range
(9 to 16 VDC)
> RS-232 communications port for
connection to terminal or computer
> Flash upgradability of software
Genrakode Test Unit
> Configuration settings are stored
in non-volatile memory

The Genrakode™ Test Unit was engineered with three pri- The right side of the unit is essentially a mirror of the left side:
mary design goals in mind: portability, functionality, and Both sides feature a two digit 14-segment display and Code
upgradability. 5 LED that indicate the code currently being received, if any.
Additionally, both sides contain a code select rotary switch, a
The test unit is compatible with all existing Genrakode and Code T transmit enable switch, a Code 5/6 transmit switch,
Genrakode-compatible systems to date, including various and a transmit enable switch.
competitors’ products. The unit is capable of receiving DC
track codes 1 through 9 and also features for possible future The test unit also features over-voltage, current, and ther-
codes. AC codes 1 through 8, 28, 32, 42, 43, 48, and 72 are mal protection. For example, accidental connection of the
also supported. track leads to a 12 volt DC battery source will not damage
the device. Connecting the power connection or track leads
The test unit features two simultaneously operating channels: backwards (i.e. negative to positive and vice versa) will also
East and West. While both channels are independent from not result in damage to the unit. While the device contains
each other, certain settings must remain the same between numerous such protections, the maximum voltage that may
the two channels. Specifically, the AC/DC mode selection, be applied to any part of the device without causing damage
the Code 5 type, and the DC Normal vs. Transit rate selec- is 16 VDC.
tion must be the same for both transmit and receive on both
channels.

Ordering Information
Description Ordering # Price
Genrakode Test Unit 20182-119-01 $ 3,362.00

©2011 Alstom Signaling Inc. www.alstomsignalingsolutions.com 63

 > Dual Code Audio Frequency Track Circuit
Track Circuits

Features
Immune to Electrical Noise
> From chopper-controlled vehicles
> From foreign current interference
> Four frequencies/track for
maximum security
No Insulated Joints Required
> Savings in track maintenance
> Ideal for welded rail
Easy to Maintain
> Solid-state electronic components
> Plug-in printed circuit boards
> Equipment for a number of circuits
can be centrally housed
High Capacity
> For cab signaling and speed control
AF Track Circuit being tested at the Rochester, NY facility or for automatic train operation
> Two-way data exchange between
wayside and train

The Alstom Signaling Inc. Dual Code High-Frequency Track and proven method of transmitting function commands to the
Circuit reliably operates in the presence of electrical noise train for cab signals and speed control or for complete auto-
generated by chopper-controlled vehicles. The track circuit matic operation. Track circuit lengths of up to 1,800 feet can
is ideally suited for use on continuous welded rail, where be obtained, with suitable ballast conditions. A unique feature
insulated joints are neither desired nor required. Combining of the dual code high-frequency track circuit is the flexibility
solid-state devices with proven vital circuit relays, this track afforded by the "building block" concept. This allows the basic
circuit eliminates the need for insulated joints, protects track circuit to be upgraded with more features added to
against interference from foreign current picked up in the accommodate stages of expanding facilities.
rails, increases track circuit versatility, and provides a simple

64 CALL 800.717.4477 • FAX 585.274.8777

 > Dual Code Audio Frequency Track Circuit

Track Circuits
The Dual Code High-Frequency Track Circuit equipment con- receiver responds to, the high-frequency signals in the rails,
sists of WEE-Z® bonds, a solid state transmitter and receiver, which provide track occupancy detection and automatic train
and a track relay. With the exception of the WEE-Z bond, protection commands. Up to eight frequencies are avail-
this equipment can be housed in a central equipment room able for track occupancy detection. One or two additional
or in a wayside case. The WEE-Z bond couples information frequencies can be used to transmit cab signal and/or speed
between the rails and the electronic wayside equipment (via control information, depending on the amount of information
a single twisted-pair line circuit), defines block limits, and required. The WEE-Z bond traction current return can be
confines pertinent frequencies to the applicable track circuits. connected to a traction return feeder, to a substation, or to a
The transmitter and receiver consist of printed circuit boards bond on an adjacent track. For more detail on WEE-Z bonds,
which plug into a rack-mounted cabinet located near the see the following page.
associated track relays. The transmitter supplies, and the

System Operation
Train Detection Automatic Speed Commands
The track is divided into blocks, with each block checked for The high-frequency track circuit equipment is the commu-
occupancy by high-frequency track circuits. Except at inter- nication channel between the wayside and train for the ATP
lockings, there are no insulated joints for block separation. speed limit commands. In addition, the WEE-Z bonds and
The bonds also inject into the track speed commands that are rails are the transmission mediums for the train to wayside
picked up by the train. WEE-Z bonds are located at the ends communications (TWC) system. The ATP speed command
of each track circuit, with one circuit usually in each block but channel has a frequency separate from the train detection
two or more circuits in longer blocks. Except at interlockings, and TWC frequencies. When a train is detected in a circuit, a
a particular bond serves as a track circuit boundary, the trans- speed command generated by the wayside track transmitter
mitter coupling for one circuit and the receiver coupling for at the leaving end of the circuit is transmitted through the
the next downstream track circuit. An ATP transmitter at the rails to the train to control its speed.
leaving end of the track circuit feeds high-frequency energy
to the track, using the WEE-Z bond as a coupling transformer. Interlockings
Acting as a receiver, a bond at the entering end of the circuit At interlockings, special track circuits and insulated joints
energizes a track relay if the signal from the transmitter is not permit safe operation of opposing traffic moves. The system
shunted by the axles of a train. The transmitter and receiver allows propulsion return currents to flow unimpeded through
associated with one particular track circuit are tuned to the the rails, while blocking train and track signals and permitting
same frequency. cab signals to reach only the desired train.

Ordering Information
For assistance in ordering a Dual Code High-Frequency Track Circuit, please contact the Alstom Customer Service Center
at 1-800-717-4477.

©2011 Alstom Signaling Inc. www.alstomsignalingsolutions.com 65

 > WEE-Z® Impedance Bonds
Track Circuits

WEE-Z Impedance Bond installed at customer location

They are also used for: “WEE-Z Impedance Bonds are designed for rapid transit audio
> Cross-bonding between tracks frequency (AF) track circuits. They are used to terminate each
end of an AF Track Circuit having different frequencies. The bonds
> A connector for a negative return are tuned to a respective frequency using capacitors mounted on
> Coupling the track circuit transmitter circuitry inside the bond. WEE-Z bonds provide a low resis-
and receiver to the rails tance for equalizing the propulsion current in the rails. Alstom
WEE-Z bonds are also qualified as water tight and submersible up
> Coupling cab signal energy to the rails to four atmospheres (100 foot depth). The high capacity 4,000
> Inhibiting the transmission of other Amp/Rail bond is ideal for customers who operate long, high perfor-
frequencies along the rail mance trains with short headways.”

> Coupling bi-directional Train-to-Wayside WEE-Z bonds are configured for:

Communication (TWC) through the rails > Short-range track circuits less than 1,000 feet (304.8m)

> Long-range track circuits up to 1,800 feet (548.6m)

> With or without Train-to-Wayside Communications

> Receive/Receive function only

Ordering Information
Description Amps Ordering # Price
WEE-Z Bond Complete 2,800 amp/rail 30859-008-XX $ 5,700.00
WEE-Z Bond Complete 2,800 amp/rail 30859-009-XX $ 5,700.00
WEE-Z Bond Complete 2,800 amp/rail 30859-010-XX $ 5,700.00
WEE-Z Bond Complete 4,000 amp/rail 30859-011-XX $ 7,995.00
WEE-Z Bond Complete 4,000 amp/rail 30859-012-XX $ 7,995.00

66 CALL 800.717.4477 • FAX 585.274.8777

 > Receiver Coils

Track Circuits
Typical Cab Signaling Receiver Coil

Receiver coils are used for 100 Hz cab signaling systems – onboard vehicle signaling equipment. Integrated into the coil
both continuous and coded. They are mounted underneath assembly is a test coil used to verify ATC operation during
the front of the locomotive above the rails. The encapsulated daily departure testing. During this testing the locomotive
coils inductively couple 100 Hz signals from the rails to the cannot be powered and the brake must be applied.

Ordering Information
Description Ordering # Price
Receiver Coil Complete - RH 52100-010-05 $ 1,895.00
Receiver Coil Complete - LH 52100-010-06 $ 1,895.00

©2011 Alstom Signaling Inc. www.alstomsignalingsolutions.com 67

 > Microseismic Railway Monitoring System
(MRMS)
Track Circuits

Features
> Self-contained system

> Automatic reset

> Interfaces with existing signaling

system

> Remote monitoring and alarming

> Local monitoring and data logging

> Operates 24/7 in all weather

conditions

Alstom’s MRMS detects and reports against dangerous incursions > Specific mode of failure detection
and derailments

> Communication via Ethernet

Alstom’s Micro-Seismic Railway Monitoring System (MRMS) is a new innovative solution that augments
existing railway technology; is a reliable, accurate and cost-effective solution to detect rock slides, collisions
with bridges and elevated structures, derailments on parallel tracks, and other conditions.

MRMS uses seismic sensors and digital signal processing to monitor ground motion and detect potential
unsafe events; automatically generating an alarm output that can interface with existing signaling
systems to allow the system to respond appropriately. MRMS automatically resets to reduce train delays
and lower operating and maintenance costs.

Its simple configuration setup, local data monitoring and logging gives MRMS the power and flexibility to
detect potential hazards while limiting false activations.

Major Components

Seismic Sensor Local Signaling System Seismic Recorder

68 CALL 800.717.4477 • FAX 585.274.8777

> Microseismic Railway Monitoring System
(MRMS)

Track Circuits
benefits
> Ease of installation > Records data for later analysis

> No change to existing signal system > Significant reduction to maintenance

requirements
> Reduces train delays and false alarms thus
increasing velocity > Improved worker safety

> Potential significant operating cost reductions

Ordering Information
For assistance in ordering or to obtain more information on MRMS, please contact the Alstom Customer Service Center
at 1-800-717-4477.

©2011 Alstom Signaling Inc. www.alstomsignalingsolutions.com 69