New York City Transit
R142 Project, New Technology Train

Develop a revolutionary communication system using an entirely digital inter-car link with an integrated diagnostics system

In 1990, New York City Transit issued a call for tenders for the design and supply of subway cars calling on the new technology of the 21st century. The R142 project proved to be highly innovative and many other system manufacturers were unwilling to take the risk of submitting tenders. In fact, one of those selected approached us to work as a development partner.

After analyzing various digital technologies, we opted for a link based on the E1 standard, the European cousin of the North American T1. The European standard offered greater transfer capacity thanks to its doubly fast clock cycle. The project presented a number of other technological challenges, notably the extensive use of microprocessors and the first-time use of CMS components.

The work was completed on a very tight schedule and delivery was made by the required date. After three years of use, equipment performance was such that the NYCT now uses our concepts and requires that they be included in all new specifications.

Variations of these systems are now in use in Boston, Montreal, New Jersey, and on the new Amtrak high-speed train.