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New York Computerizes its Subway System

Iphtashu Fitz writes "New York City's Metropolitan Transit Authority launched it's first fully computer controlled subway line this month. The `L' Line of the MTA that connects the southern part of Manhattan with Brooklyn was picked for this pilot program because of its relatively short length and the fact that it doesn't share tracks with any other lines. Trains on this line no longer have conductors on board, and only a single driver in the front to monitor all the systems. What's the big deal, you may ask? After all, cities like San Francisco and Paris already have computerized subway lines. Well, having recently celebrated its 100th anniversary the MTA is one of the oldest subway systems in the United States, and one of the largest in the world. If all goes well, the MTA will continue to expand automated service to the rest of the subway system over the next 20 years. But just how safe and secure will these new automated lines be? The radio links that provide data communication between the trains and the control center are encrypted, but how long until a hacker manages to crack it?"

2 of 492 comments (clear)

  1. Re:Potential problems by GISGEOLOGYGEEK · · Score: 0, Flamebait

    Damn, read the messages!

    THERE IS a mechanism that stops the doors if there is an obstruction! They can not forcefully close if held open too long. In fact when held too long, if the other passengers haven't dealt with the problem, Skytrain control yells to stop blocking the door and sends security over, meanwhile watching the many cameras to tell if its a serious issue or not.

    Get with the times, the system designers did actually spend time considering a few details here and there, this is a Canadian system, not a steam engine in India with 1000 people sitting on top of the box cars!

    How did your ignorant message get an insightful mod?

    --
    George Bush + Linux = "I will not let information get in the way of the fight against Windows"
  2. Re:Vancouver had an automated train since 1986. by otis+wildflower · · Score: 0, Flamebait

    And what was Vancouver back when NYC put in its first 49km of track, cocksucker?

    Oh, and btw, the L was built from the BMT Canarsie line, which began life in 1867. What was Vancouver then, you fucking canuck hoser? A colony. That wasn't even rail-linked to the rest of the country 'til 1885. At which point New York had been a city for nearly 300 years, and had been 'New York' for 200.

    So back the fuck up, eh?