5.25-inch floppy disks expected to help run San Francisco trains until 2030 (2024)
5 days ago
- #san-francisco
- #public-transport
- #technology
- SFMTA uses 5¼-inch floppy disks to load software for Muni Metro's Automatic Train Control System (ATCS).
- The ATCS, installed in 1998, includes onboard train computers, servers, and communication systems.
- Trains operate automatically in the subway, supervised by operators, and switch to manual mode on streets.
- Plans to overhaul the ATCS and move away from floppy disks began in 2018, with completion expected by 2029-2030.
- SFMTA aims to implement a unified train control system for the entire rail network.