More quesions!

[AaronR]

Hi everyone, thanks for your help on my last post.

I have so more questions I was wondering:

I have seen a few cab ride videos where drivers have what looks like an Ipad in the cab, what are these used for and do all drivers have them?

When you are passed the test, if you work at a depot with various traction and routes, do you start on one, drive that route and then just gradually sign off other routes and traction, or do them all at the start?

One more thing,

What is the in cab GSM radio used for?

Thanks

 

[LETHLFH]

I work for a TOC which does not give drivers tablets or phones, I signed all traction before going out with my minder to build up hours, I have 1 core route which I will be assessed on after 240 hours with my minder. After I'm qualified I will learn all others individually. GSMR is used for speaking to signallers and control usually.

 

[Johncleesefan]

The tablet looking thing may have been das- drivers advisery system I believe. I don't have it on my traction but hear it's a load of bull. Tries to tell you when to coast etc but doesn't take into restrictive aspects. Only what I heard. I signed all 3 traction at my depot as day to day diagramming varies and train sets can be changed at last minute. As for routes, we have core routes which are usually the depot's most worked routes and then you eventually learn the rest

 

[TractiveEffort]

The tablet looking thing may have been das- drivers advisery system I believe. I don't have it on my traction but hear it's a load of bull.

It's an advisory system, to maximise fuel efficiency, it doesn't take anything from the Drivers responsibility for safely driving the train. There is an option for the Driver to disable it, most don't as they find the station reminders and most importantly, the mileage display very useful and just ignore the coast and speed recommendations- although, on a clear run, they do work out pretty accurate.

I can remember when the Pway gangs all had there own areas and the lineside was usually immaculate, mileposts all in place and regularly painted. Not so now, so a display that gives you the exact mileage when reporting an incident, is a godsend.

 

[Kattyjohn82]

Got DAS on my traction and I only use it to tell if I'm late or not. The fuel efficiency part is nonsense. It can't differentiate between mains or reliefs....it even told me to coast up hill at one point