PCaTS

Siemens has introduced a new traffic solution that provides pedestrian countdown at traffic signals (PCaTS).

Using this new technology, pedestrians will be able to calculate the time to cross the road after the far-side green man signal has gone out.

PCaTS provides a visible countdown of the time remaining before the appearance of the red man and gives pedestrians a better understanding of the time available to complete crossing.

It also helps to smooth traffic for drivers, motorcyclists, buses and cyclists.

The technology shows exactly the time left to cross helping pedestrians to cross easily without stopping in the middle of the road.

"The PCaTS units are completely compatible with Siemens Helios Traffic signals and can be easily fitted as part of a new installation or as a retrofit to an existing site."

Siemens product management head Keith Manston said PCaTS with its highly visible ‘double -troke’ LED digits features better visual appearance.

Manston said: "The visual appearance is enhanced by the use of a flat lens, which is ‘black-masked’ to minimise sun phantom reflections. The unit may also be fitted with a small hood to further enhance the sun phantom performance if required."

The PCaTS unit does not require any configuration upon installation as it detects the blackout period automatically after two learning cycles of the signals.

With the use of direct connections to the red and green signal feeds through totally isolated input circuits, timing synchronisation with the blackout period can be obtained.

Said to be compatible with LV (230V) and ELV (48V) systems, the new PCaTS unit is separately powered to accommodate 24V (AC/DC) as well as 48V (DC) supply systems.

Manston added: "The PCaTS units are completely compatible with Siemens Helios Traffic signals and can be easily fitted as part of a new installation or as a retrofit to an existing site. The units are also able to be easily retrofitted to sites, which use the Peek Elite traffic signal range."

Image: PCaTS gives pedestrians a better understanding of the time available to complete crossing. Photo: courtesy of Siemens.