ADVANCED TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS GET SMART

This article outlines the development of standard traffic controllers in the USA, and emphasises future requirements for Advanced Transportation Controllers (ATCs). The three widely-used standard traffic controllers in the USA have been: (1) NEMA TS-1; (2) CALTRANS 170; and (3) NEMA TS-2. However, new 'intelligent' highway applications require more traffic monitoring and processing than before; this has created a demand for ATCs, which are now being used increasingly on American roads. Common features of modern ATCs include: (1) a VME computer bus; (2) operating temperatures between -34 and 74 degrees C; and (3) an OS-9 real-time operating system. These ATCs have very powerful and flexible data processing facilities, incorporating open systems standards and state-of-the-art processor technology. The following features make them very powerful, flexible, and cost-effective: (1) high-level programming; (2) high processing power; (3) fast data transmission; (4) accurate scanning; (5) ability to control many more devices than previously; and (6) modularity. ATCs differ significantly from conventional personal computers (PCs). A table compares highway needs with the capabilities of the three US standard traffic controllers and Matrix Corporation's SmartATC range of modern ATCs, which is described briefly. For the covering abstract see IRRD 877920.

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    UK and International Press

    120 South Street
    Dorking, Surrey RH4 2EU,   England 
  • Authors:
    • MEILLEUR, L
  • Publication Date: 1996

Language

  • English

Media Info

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00723066
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: Transport Research Laboratory
  • Files: ITRD
  • Created Date: Jul 26 1996 12:00AM