Track & Signal Systems Flashcards
7 cards from real LEC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Track & Signal Systems flashcards as text
What does a red signal aspect (Stop) require a locomotive engineer to do?
Answer: Stop and not proceed without proper authority
A red (Stop) signal is an absolute signal requiring the engineer to stop and not proceed without receiving proper authority from the dispatcher or train control.
What is the primary function of a Cab Signal System on a locomotive?
Answer: It displays wayside signal aspects inside the cab for the engineer
A cab signal system displays current signal aspects inside the locomotive cab, allowing engineers to receive signal information without needing to see wayside signals.
Under FRA track standards, what is the maximum authorized speed for freight trains on Class 4 track?
Answer: 60 mph
FRA Class 4 track permits a maximum freight train speed of 60 mph and passenger train speed of 80 mph.
Which hazard is Positive Train Control (PTC) primarily designed to prevent?
Answer: Train-to-train collisions and overspeed violations
PTC is mandated by the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008 to prevent train-to-train collisions, derailments caused by overspeed, and unauthorized train movements through work zones.
What does an 'Approach' signal aspect (yellow over red) communicate to the engineer?
Answer: Proceed prepared to stop at the next signal
An Approach signal means the engineer should proceed prepared to stop before any part of the train passes the next signal.
What is the primary purpose of a Track Warrant (Form B) in railroad operations?
Answer: To grant a train authority to occupy a defined section of track in non-signaled territory
A Track Warrant (Form B) grants written authority for a train to operate over a specific segment of track, particularly in dark or non-signaled territory where no automatic block signals exist.
In an Automatic Block Signal (ABS) system, what does a block signal primarily protect against?
Answer: Two trains occupying the same block simultaneously
The ABS system uses track circuits to detect train occupancy and displays signals to prevent two trains from entering the same block at the same time.