ATO: automatic train operation

What ATO is

ATO (automatic train operation) moves the train from one station to the next: accelerates, runs, brakes and stops at the platform. You stay in the cab: open and close doors, watch signals and give the start order.

It does not replace ATP or train-stop. ATO asks for a speed; ATP sets the ceiling. If there is a red or code 0, do not force a departure.

Platform cycle

On arrival, ATO releases control and leaves the train stopped. The “Qué hacer” panel walks you through the steps.

• 1. Open the doors on the platform side (O or P, depending on direction).
• 2. Press T (chime) before closing.
• 3. Close the doors and wait until they are sealed.
• 4. If the signal / ATP is not on code 0, hold Space for about ~2.5 s (progress bar). ATO starts on its own toward the next station.

What it does underway

Between stations ATO accelerates to a cruise speed (usually around 70 km/h if ATP allows), then slows on approach to the platform and nails the stop on the mark.

• Respects the ATP code (including diverge and curves): it will not ask for more than permitted.
• Near a red, it brakes so as not to pass it. On amber it usually caps around 30 km/h.
• At PSD platforms it aims for the door mark (the same one as the HUD bar).
• When nearly stopped on the mark, ATO releases: you get control back for the door cycle.

Requirements to start

ATO only arms departure if the conditions are met. If the Space bar does not fill, check the list.

• Mode 2 (ATO) selected.
• Train stopped and doors closed / sealed.
• If you have already been running, you must have opened (and closed) doors at that platform: the dwell cycle counts.
• No ATP code 0: with a red ahead it will not start in ATO.

ATO vs ATP

ATP (1): you accelerate and brake; ATP watches the code. ATO (2): the train drives; you do doors and Space. M+25 (3): manual at 25 km/h without line codes.

At a terminus, to turn around, leave the desk with E just as in ATP: ATO will not change cabs for you.