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Rail Product News

11/11/2016



MEN Micro: MA50C system for train control

MEN Micro has unveiled its MA50C, a modular system for train control that complies with Association of American Railroads (AAR) standards. The new controller unit features a mechanical design that meets AAR S-590, as well as an AAR S-9401-compliant enclosure that houses a safe CPU, real-time Ethernet card, power supply and shelf controller.

The rugged MA50C is the first member of a robust family of AAR-compliant train control units built on the same components and functionality as the existing menTCS (train control system) family. All platforms are open and application-ready for easy integration of user applications, MEN Micro officials said in a press release.

The configurable and modular MA50C can be used for all kinds of critical train control functions, such as automatic train operation (ATO) and automatic train protection (ATP). The unit is ideal for almost any safety-critical railway application, from single train functions up to the main control system, with functional safety levels from SIL 1 to SIL 4, depending on specific requirements, according to the company.

The MA50C's high degree of flexibility makes railroad computerization fast and cost-effective, MEN Micro officials added.

An MCU (modular concept unit) design hosts a single tower of up to six standard 3U CompactPCI boards. User-specific functions, such as safe digital I/O, MVB (multifunction vehicle bus) and serial I/O, are accommodated by incorporating different boards into the system's slots. Front interfaces include four M12 connectors for Ethernet, four MIL-C connectors for I/O requirements, a ground connector, status LEDs and an optional front display to show system status and diagnostics.

In addition the AAR S-9401-compliant housing withstands dust and water jets according to IP65/NEMA-4. All boards inside the system are embedded in a conduction cooling frame, increasing system reliability and eliminating the need for fans and maintenance. The machined side walls provide a hermetically tight seal and strengthen the unit's mechanical stability.

The MA50C also meets AREMA 11.5.1: Class I, Class J specifications and features an operating temperature of -40°C to 85°C for qualified components.

Its robust design makes the control unit ideal for use in regions with extreme environmental conditions or for applications that require an AAR approved form factor, MEN Micro officials said.

The MA50C is the first member of a new, AAR-compliant sub-family of the MEN train control system (menTCS), whose components will be delivered exclusively in a project context. Functionally, the MA50C is identical with the available standard MH50C.

The safe components of the menTCS will be delivered with different SIL 4 certification packages.