In preparation for NY/Trenton to be released I’ve decided to have a look at Boston Sprinter but as I’m new to the route I’m not 100% sure how the signalling system works. When the ATC shows “Clear 125” I still need to obey the speed below “Maximum authorised speed”? If it changes down from “Clear” 125 to “Approach Medium” 45 does that mean I need to be at 45mph by the next signal? Also, what’s the difference between Clear, Medium, Restrict and Approach? Is there a clear explanation online?
Basically, in the maximum authorised speed, that'll say your top speed, so you must always be at or below it. When it changes, you must acknowledge it and then starting braking in suppression at a minimum until you have reached the new speed limit. The signalling however is going to be receiving an overhaul on Boston - Providence in the update that usually comes before a DLC release (this is when Boston and Sherman Hill will receive their routes upgrades), so a lot will be changing.
The signaling and speeds are complete off so better wait for the update. I don't exactly why DTG has implemented this system. Sometimes you drive really slow and you asking you're self why?!
I had it the other day where it would not let me drive at more than 20 mph for miles but that was after accidently putting the reverser in reverse by mistake before setting off, I didn't actually reverse. I re-started the service and accidently did the same with the same result. Re-started a third time and used the W key this time to put it in forward and the signalling and systems worked as to how I suspect they should. I am looking forward to the update as I really like the route and the trains. One thing I can't work out, why do they use diesel trains on the Providence services rather than electrics, assuming it is correct in the sim?
MBTA simply don’t have the rolling stock, their commuter rail is all Diesel, apart from the subway stock. They are planning to move over to electric stock though, I think it’s from 2024 they will be looking to move over.
I assume because most of MBTAs lines are unelectrified. If they were to get electric rolling stock, only very few of their lines could make use of them, so it does not worth getting them.
In general, whenever the systems show different speed limits the lower one applies. In most cases this will be ATC showing a signal aspect limit which is below ACSES (which always reflects line speed) Clear: line speed Limited: 45 Medium: 30 Slow 15 Restricted: 15 in interlockings, 20 outside Approach: expect stop
