Glossary

Multiple Unit operation (MU)

A group of locomotives physically connected via a 27-pin jumper cable and three independent brake hoses, form a multiple unit consist. All the locomotives in the group are controlled from the lead locomotive. Note this is not the same as Distributed Power. MU is fully simulated and working as expected.

Distributed Power (DP)

Not physically connected locomotives can communicate through radio telemetry/telecommand. This can be done only with locomotives that support this feature. This way, the lead locomotive can control distant locomotives (a.k.a. helpers) in the train. DP can be combined with MU. A DP capable locomotive can control a MU group, this group can be placed at the middle or at the end of a train, and then be controlled from the train lead locomotive. More than one of this groups can exist in a train. DP is still not supported in this simulator, but it is a planned feature.

Power to weight ratio (P/W)

A ratio that measures the amount of power per weight unit, thus expressing the ability of a train to gain speed and to get over grades. In the U.S. hp/hon (horsepower per ton) unit is used.

Tons per Operative Brake (TOB)

A ratio that measures the amount of weight per train vehicle with operative brakes, thus expressing the ability of the train to stop, especially on downgrade.