Controls, power + signal
Complete the system around your switch machine.
Choose how your switches are commanded, how your equipment is powered & how switch position is communicated — all configured to fit your yard, operating environment & existing infrastructure.
More than a switch machine.
A reliable automated switch depends on more than the machine at the track. It requires a control method that fits your operation, dependable power at every location and clear confirmation that the switch has reached the commanded position.
Advanced Rail Systems brings these components together as one integrated solution — whether you are automating a single switch, upgrading an existing installation or connecting an entire yard.
Control it your way
How a switch is controlled should reflect who needs to operate it and where they are when they need to make that decision. A local push button may be appropriate at one location, while another operation may benefit from handheld controls, existing DTMF radios or centralized yard control through Pathfinder. These methods can also work together within the same operation.
ARS helps determine the right control approach based on crew workflows, distances, existing communications and the level of visibility and coordination the operation requires. The result can be as simple as remote control of a single switch or part of a connected system spanning multiple switches and control points.
Push-button controls
DTMF radio controls
Handheld remote controls
Pathfinder yard control software
Integration with existing yard systems
Custom control configurations
Power where you need it
Available power can vary considerably from one switch location to the next. Some sites have convenient AC service; others would require significant infrastructure just to bring conventional power to the track. ARS can configure the power system around the location rather than making the location conform to a single power approach.
Depending on the application, that may include AC power, solar generation, energy storage or a combination of components selected around usage, environment and available infrastructure. Power management, charging and enclosure components are configured as part of the system so the switch has a dependable source of power where it is installed.
Solar power systems
Supercapacitor power systems
AC-powered configurations
Charging and power-management components
Enclosures configured for the application
Confirm switch position
Sending a command is only half of the interaction. Crews also need clear information about where the switch actually ended up. ARS systems can provide positive position feedback from the switch machine and communicate that status in the form most useful to the operation.
At the track, high-visibility LED indicators can give crews an immediate visual reference. Switch status can also be communicated back through the control system for remote monitoring and incorporated into existing signaling or yard infrastructure where appropriate. This gives operators confirmation based on the switch’s detected position — not simply the fact that a command was sent.
High-visibility LED indicators
Switch-position indication
Positive position feedback
Local and remote status communication
Configurations for existing signaling infrastructure
Let’s solve the right problem together.
Tell us about your operation, existing infrastructure and goals. We’ll help you determine what a practical path forward could look like.