1989 – Nov – McDonald – Westrace : Second Generation Solid State Signallling

Wayne McDonald, B.E. (Elec). MlRSE Manager, Research & Development, Signal Division, Westinghouse Brake & Signal Co. (Aust.) Ltd. This paper traces the development of a modular Solid State Signalling System specifically developed for the Railway Industry. The movement from relays to electronic equivalents is reviewed as a basis for expounding some fundamental dcsiln principles. A short analysis of the role of safety is presented. WESTRACE Vital Signaling Systems are overviewed in terms of equipment design and the application to typical railways. Finally, the paper considers the future potential for fail-safe electronics in the railway environment.