ATCS (Advanced Train Control System) is a system by which dispatchers can control train movements via radio. The computer program ATCSMon has become a very useful tool for railfans, and ATCS is making its way onto the Port Road. Explaining the program and how to use it are best left to the links at the bottom of the page. I will simply update where ATCS locations are installed and how they can be monitored.
As of now, the following interlockings on the Port Road have ATCS installed:
STEL - SHOCKS - LAKE - COLA - CRES
In addition, JEB and PAXTON are in service on the Royalton Branch
All of these interlockings are within range of current ATCS servers, and can be viewed by downloading the Harrisburg Division kit (Current version is 11.0) from the ATCS Yahoo group (you must join the group first). Once set up, you can simply view them via internet on the Port Road dispatcher displays (included in the kit). The entire stretch between CRES an STEL is viewable, but keep in mind that WAGO is not online and you cannot "see" anything between STEL and WAGO. In addition, there is a high error rate at SHOCKS, LAKE, and CRES, so you may get some weird indications, or none at all. I imagine this is due to a distance issues between the radio signals and the location where the server is running. In my experience so far, they are fairly accurate.
The other option is to go trackside with an ATCS mobile setup and monitor the interlocking yourself. The equipment needed for this is listed within the links below
If you happen to live very close to one of these interlockings it may be possible to host an ATCS server at your home. The equipment is usually provided, all you need to have is a high-speed internet connection that is always on.
ATCS links:
http://www.atcsmon.com - ATCS monitoring program
http://atcswiki.greatlakesnetworking.net/bin/view - ATCS how-to
