ATC
Automatic Train Control
A collective term for railway systems that automatically supervise and control train movement to maintain safe separation, regulate speed and support efficient operation.
Detailed explanation
Automatic Train Control (ATC) refers to the integrated systems used to monitor, supervise and control train movements. Depending on the railway and signalling architecture, ATC may include functions such as Automatic Train Protection (ATP), Automatic Train Operation (ATO) and Automatic Train Supervision (ATS).
ATC systems receive information about train position, permitted speed, movement authority and route conditions, and use this information to regulate train movement. In more automated railway systems, ATC can manage acceleration, braking, station stopping and operational regulation with limited or no driver intervention.
The exact meaning of ATC can vary between railway networks and standards, so the term should be understood in the context of the particular signalling and control system being used.
Railway applications
mainline, high_speed, metro, light_rail, freight, depot
Standards and references
IEC 62290 series; EN 50126; EN 50128; EN 50129; applicable railway signalling and train control system specifications