The European Train Control System (ETCS) is a continuous train protection system that calculates safe maximum speeds and automatically applies the brakes if the engineer fails to comply. It relies on track-mounted transponders and wireless data networks to feed movement authorities directly to the locomotive cab. It serves a similar safety function to North American Positive Train Control (PTC) but utilizes a different technical architecture.
The onboard ETCS computer initiated a penalty brake application when the driver approached the red aspect too fast.
Related terms
ERTMS
The European Rail Traffic Management System is a unified standard for railway signaling and control.
Eurobalise
A track-mounted transponder used to transmit location and signaling data to a passing train.
PTC
Positive train control: an onboard and wayside system that stops a train before it breaks a speed limit or authority.