How long before all mechanical signalling is replaced on Network Rail

[StaffsWCML]

A Good summary. I'd just like to reassure readers that the primary processor-based 'safety-critical' subsystems embedded in or closely connected to the trackside infrastructure such as interlocking and axle counters do not employ Microsoft operating systems! 'Safety-related' systems such as the workstation computers at control centres may use conventional commercial operating systems, although some experts recommend that specialist Unix family products are used where they can be supported. This is common ground with other safety related sectors, e.g. Military, Emergency Services dispatch, Medical machinery.

There is nothing wrong with Microsoft Systems these days, the days of NT and frequent blue screens are quite far behind us. Most Linux based systems have more security flaws than Windows its just they are used to a lesser extent.

 

[duffield]

There is nothing wrong with Microsoft Systems these days, the days of NT and frequent blue screens are quite far behind us. Most Linux based systems have more security flaws than Windows its just they are used to a lesser extent.

As far as I'm aware the license condition "not for use in safety critical systems" still applies to Windows.

Windows may not crash much these days but my work Windows PC is frequently unusable for long periods due to the constant updates, many for crticial issues. Plus it displays large amounts of random behaviour where important features just stop working. Also my work windows PC despite being newer and having a faster cpu and more memory often slows to a crawl for no apparent reason when running e.g. just browser + Outlook; my hardware challenged Linux PC never does this.

As for the assertion that most Linux systems have more security flaws than Windows, unless you actually work for MS as a Windows maintainer and can reconcile the differences in criticality ratings, relevance etc. for bugs in Linux vs Windows this is impossible to prove, particularly given the closed nature of Windows and the incomplete information MS provides.

However, I certainly seem to see far more critical security flaws for my windows work PC than my Linux home PC; and Linux patching typically takes minutes instead of hours for Windows so I'm always patched up to date because it's totally painless.
Anyhow, that's my personal experience of both operating systems over the last 10+ years.

Not saying that either is the best choice but if I had to trust my life to a hardened stripped down Linux distro I'd choose that over a similar Windows version any day.

 

[ComUtoR]

Our Electrostar Mitracs uses windows

 

[MarkyT]

In much the same vein however, Park Signalling has recently produced a modern version of the classic Tyers token machine, communicating via a data stream over the internet rather than being hardwired. There's an article in a recent Rail Engineer magazine but unfortunately it doesn't seem to be on their website.

Found it: https://www.railengineer.co.uk/2019/05/06/single-line-internet-control/

Single Line Internet Control
The safe operation and signalling of single-line railways are crucial as any head-on crash between two trains is potentially catastrophic. Incidents of this nature are thankfully very rare as the systems devised to allow only one train into a single-line section are robust and well respected.
Train drivers have to be assured, beyond any doubt, that it is safe to proceed into the section ahead. Initially this was achieved by possession of a single physical ‘staff’ for the section, later developed into tablet or token machines to give more flexibility. In more modern times, No Signalman Key Token (NSKT) operation has emerged, whereby the drivers actually operate the token machines, mainly at passing loops, instead of a signaller.
Tokenless Block is another alternative, where track circuits give signallers full viewing of the single line section to clear the signals accordingly. Use of radio in the RETB (Radio Electronic Token Block) application has also been developed.
Tablet or token machines require a landline connection between adjacent signal boxes, never a problem in the past but it can be a constraint nowadays, with the continuing demand to rationalise lineside infrastructure. So, can other means be used to connect the token instruments?
Park Signalling, now a member of the Unipart Rail group, has developed a system whereby secure IP (Internet Protocol) communication is used for the connection, either over the internet or any other non-dedicated communications link such as 4G cellular radio or Network Rail Telecom’s FTNx network. This represents an innovative means of adapting 21st century technology to link with Victorian engineering.
Rail Engineer went to the Ecclesbourne Valley railway at Duffield to view a demonstration of the system.