ETCS

European Train Control System

Standardized European train control displaying dynamic speed curves, braking distance, and target speed on a DMI screen.

Driving Difficulty Level 4 / 5

Advanced

Based on vigilance required, reaction window, and braking penalty severity.

menu_book System Overview

ETCS is the unified signaling and train protection component of ERTMS (European Rail Traffic Management System). Featured in modern routes such as Luzern - Sursee and international corridors, it replaces legacy national systems with a standardized Driver Machine Interface (DMI).

settings How It Operates

check_circle Eurobalises in the track transmit Movement Authorities (MA) to the train Eurocab computer.
check_circle Level 1 uses trackside balises and lineside signals; Level 2 uses continuous GSM-R / LTE radio transmission without trackside signals.
check_circle The circular speedometer on the DMI screen displays permitted speed (Vperm), target speed (Vtarget), and a dynamic yellow/orange braking hook.
check_circle If the driver approaches the warning limit, an acoustic tone sounds; if ignored, the intervention curve initiates automatic emergency braking.

visibility In-Cab Visual & Audio Indications

notifications DMI Circular Speedometer

Color-coded speed gauge: Grey (normal), Yellow (warning), Orange (overspeed), Red (intervention).

notifications Audible Sonalert

High/low two-tone alert for warnings and mode transitions.

lightbulb Driver Tips to Avoid Penalty Brakes

verified Follow the circular speed needle hook: stay comfortably below the ceiling speed to avoid warning beeps.
verified Watch for Mode Changes (e.g. from Shunting to Full Supervision) requiring explicit DMI confirmation.

route Compatible Routes

All Routes arrow_forward

No specific routes mapped yet for this system in the database.