PZB 90
Punktförmige Zugbeeinflussung
Point-based magnetic supervision monitoring restrictive signals, braking curves, and stop signals.
Advanced
Based on vigilance required, reaction window, and braking penalty severity.
menu_book System Overview
PZB 90 is the foundational German and Austrian safety system. It relies on trackside inductive magnets tuned to three distinct frequencies (1000 Hz, 500 Hz, and 2000 Hz) to verify driver alertness and mathematically enforce deceleration curves.
settings How It Operates
- check_circle 1000 Hz Magnet (at distant signals showing Caution): Requires pressing PZB Acknowledge (Wachsam) within 4 seconds. Initiates a timed speed-monitoring curve based on train operating mode (O: 85 km/h in 23s, M: 70 km/h in 29s, U: 55 km/h in 38s).
- check_circle 500 Hz Magnet (150-250m before main signals): Monitors speed immediately before red signals (Mode O: max 65 km/h dropping to 45 km/h). No acknowledgment required, but immediate penalty if overspeeding.
- check_circle 2000 Hz Magnet (at main stop signals): Triggers instantaneous emergency braking if a train passes a red signal without prior authorization (Befehl 40).
- check_circle Restricted Monitoring (Restriktive Überwachung): Flashing alternating 70/85 lamps enforce a 45 km/h ceiling (or 25 km/h after a 500 Hz magnet) if speed drops below 10 km/h during an active cycle.
visibility In-Cab Visual & Audio Indications
Indicates train weight category. Flashing indicates active monitoring or restricted mode.
Yellow (1000 Hz) and Red (500 Hz) lamps illuminate during active surveillance curves.
A distinct beep or vocal announcement ("Zugbeeinflussung") sounds upon magnet interaction.
lightbulb Driver Tips to Avoid Penalty Brakes
- verified Never press PZB Frei if you cannot visibly confirm the next main signal is clear; doing so approaching a red signal triggers an immediate penalty brake at the 500 Hz magnet.
- verified If you drop below 10 km/h during a 1000 Hz phase, you are locked into 45 km/h restricted monitoring.
- verified Remember the golden rule: Acknowledge first (within 4s), then brake smoothly.
