Implementation of microcontrolers in railway automatic traffic control systems

Most railway administrations have been implementing unified microprocessor systems and structural modules in the railway automatic devices in order to reduce the material consumption and operational costs. These systems do not have electromagnetic relays and other electromechanic devices, which allows introducing a distance control and setting the technical parameters of the objects controlled. In that aspect microcontrollers can be used as structural modules of microprocessor receiving-and-transmitting devices and the devices of electromagnetic compatibility. The paper examines the possibilities of implementing microcontrollers with the control on the decentralized units of the automatic traffic control. The case particularly presented is of using microcontrollers as part of an interlocking system for control on traffic lights, the serviceability of the railroad, counters of axles, etc. It is shown that this new innovative technology will increase the reliability of safety systems in railway transport