M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Contents CHAPTER 1 GETTING STARTED...................................................................................................................... 1 Installing Train Simulator ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 2 Setup choices .........................................................
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK CHAPTER 4 TOOLS FOR DRIVING ................................................................................................................ 14 Using Views .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 15 The views ............................................................
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK CHAPTER 7 HOW TO DRIVE A DIESEL LOCOMOTIVE ............................................................................... 40 What is a Diesel Locomotive?...................................................................................................................................................................................... 41 Using the Diesel-Electric Locomotive Controls & Gauges .....................................................
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK CHAPTER 9 OPERATIONS .............................................................................................................................. 62 Passenger Operations ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 63 Following the timetable .................................................
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK CHAPTER 11 THE ROUTES .............................................................................................................................. 75 Marias Pass ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 76 Northeast Corridor .........................................
GETTING CHAPTER 1 STARTED Whether you’re a rookie, a hard-core gamer, or a real-life train engineer, you probably can’t wait to climb into the cab and drive off into the sunset. Before you start using Microsoft® Train Simulator though, there are a few things you need to do. This chapter tells you how to get started.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK INSTALLING TRAIN SIMULATOR 1. Turn on your computer and start your Microsoft Windows® operating system (Windows 95 or later). 2. Insert Train Simulator Disc 1 into your CD-ROM drive. 3. Follow the instructions on the screen. If your computer doesn’t support automatic installation, follow these steps: 1. Click Start on the taskbar. 2. Point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 3. Double-click Add/Remove Programs. 4.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK MAKING TRAIN SIMULATOR REALLY PERFORM When talking about a simulation’s graphics, quality refers to how real the images look on the screen, and performance refers to how quickly and smoothly the images move. Higher quality typically means decreased performance, since displaying complex, richly detailed, three-dimensional graphics puts a heavy load on your system.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Making a tradeoff between quality and performance Choosing between quality and performance depends on what you want to do. If you want to read signs and billboards as you drive the 7000 LSE Series through downtown Tokyo, then you’re probably willing to sacrifice a little performance for a better view.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK TRAIN SIMULATOR QUICK START To get the most out of Microsoft Train Simulator it’s best to prepare. Our recommendation is that you: 1. Read the rest of this Engineer’s Handbook. 2. Take the Introductory Train Ride (click the button from the Home screen). 3. Go through the onscreen Tutorials (click the button from the Home screen).
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK 4. Select an Activity from the Activities list. If you just want to get the feel of driving the train, select the Explore the Route Activity. You won’t have to follow any rules, and you can move the switches to explore any stretch of track that strikes your fancy. You can select the locomotive you want here, too. If you select any other Activity, a description explains what your assignment is.
CHAPTER 2 THE HOME SCREEN The Home Screen is the point of departure for all of your Microsoft® Train Simulator adventures. This is where you can decide whether you’re going to drive or ride, race down the track for fun or with purpose, arrange your settings, and more.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK HOME SCREEN OPTIONS From the Home Screen you can: Sit back and just ride a train so you can get the feel of the trains and the routes. Take a tutorial to familiarize yourself with the controls of each type of locomotive. Operate your own train, with your choice of locomotive, route, weather, and so on. Change your settings for best performance on your computer’s system. Below are the details of the Home Screen options.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK To select a Tutorial 1. On the Home screen, click Tutorials. 2. Select an electric, diesel, or steam lesson. Note: It’s a good idea to do the lessons in the order they’re presented. 3. Click Start. DRIVE A TRAIN When you’ve completed the tutorials, you’ll be ready for the challenge of driving one of the Train Simulator locomotives, with your choice of settings, routes, and types of service. To drive the trains 1.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Note: If you want to save the Activity without interrupting your run, just press the “Quick Save” key (F2). Quick-saving is a smart thing to do every now and then. If you make a mistake (such as lose control of the train while going down a hill), you can re-start at the point where you last Quick-saved instead of having to start the entire Activity again from the beginning.
FINDING INFORMATION You can get great information and assistance in many places in Microsoft® Train Simulator, so you can spend more time driving trains—and less time figuring out how. This chapter helps you find the information you’re looking for.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK THE ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK This Engineer’s Handbook gives you an overview of Train Simulator with tips and instruction about railroading, the locomotives, and the routes. Think of this Handbook as the view from 30,000 feet— for detailed procedures and specifications, use the in-game Train Simulator Help.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK FURTHER INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE On the Train Simulator Web site you can find news, tips, articles, reference material, and links to other interesting simulation and railroading sites. The Train Simulator Web site is located at http://www.microsoft.com/games/trainsim The Train Simulator Readme file contains late-breaking information about Train Simulator.
TOOLS FOR CHAPTER DRIVING 4 In the real world of trains you can feel the wind on your face and the cars move from side to side. In Microsoft® Train Simula- tor, since you won’t have such cues, we give you a few tools to help you get your bearings. The driving aids, Realism Options, and various Views are designed to do this. You can also use these tools to perform tasks from outside the cab— you don’t have to actually be sitting in the cab of the train to drive it.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK USING VIEWS You can use the keyboard to get all kinds of visual angles of the train—both internal and external. Use the ARROW keys to look left, right, up or down, to pan or to zoom. Add SHIFT to pan or zoom quickly. Note: All key commands referred to in this chapter are used on the main part of the keyboard, not on the numeric keypad. Cab view (1 key): The view from inside the cab.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK THE REALISM OPTIONS Realism Options make your train experience more—or less—realistic. With some of the Realism Options, you don’t have to worry about every single one of the requirements of operating a train. With other Realism Options you can heighten your experience by setting the options closer to those of a real train. To turn Realism Options on or off While driving, use the key command (given below). –or– 1.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Automatic Fireman (steam trains) The computer-controlled fireman attempts to keep the boiler at a high pressure at all times, in order to respond to any unforeseen demands from you, the engineer. But this is not very efficient in terms of fuel and water usage, so you may want to take over the role yourself. To take over the fireman’s role, turn the Fireman feature OFF at the General tab of the Options screen.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Cycle car numbers (F7) You can view a train’s car number. This is useful for coupling. Switching driving aid (F8) The Switching driving aid displays the status of both the switch immediately in front of the train and the switch immediately behind the train.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK THE OPERATIONS NOTEBOOK The Operations Notebook is a great tool to use when you want to complete an Activity. To display it at any time, just press F11. There are six tabs: Tab Contents Briefing A detailed description of your assignment. Timetable The schedule you must follow in the current Activity. Most freight Activities don’t have timetables. Work Order A list of tasks to perform during the current Activity.
TRAIN CHAPTER 5 BASICS Before you start barreling down the track, we recommend you learn the basics of operating one of the three types of locomotives in Microsoft® Train Simulator. These trains are modeled so closely on real trains that the challenges are significant, and a little preparation can go a long way.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK THREE TYPES OF LOCOMOTIVES You can drive three types of locomotives in Train Simulator: steam, electric, and diesel. Steam locomotives Flying Scotsman and the Gölsdorf 380 are steam locomotives, fueled by coal. You can burn almost anything in a steam locomotive, but engines are typically designed to burn a particular type of fuel, such as coal, wood, or oil. The fuel is used to heat water, creating the steam that powers the locomotive.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK TERMS TO KNOW You’ll need to understand the following terms and concepts in order to operate the locomotive of your choice. Tractive effort: Tractive effort is a measure of how much pulling power a locomotive has—it is the total power the locomotive can exert before the wheels start to slip or the locomotive “stalls” from excessive resistance.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK SLOWING AND STOPPING THE TRAIN It’s essential to understand braking in railroad operations, as there are many different types of brakes. Both locomotives and individual cars need them. These brakes are divided into two categories: train brakes and locomotive brakes.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK In an air brake system, the force of air pressure in the brake cylinder presses the brake pad against the wheels, slowing the train. A system of air reservoirs in each car, connected by a brake pipe that runs the length of the train, are filled by the main compressor located on the locomotive.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Locomotive brakes The locomotive brakes function only on the locomotive. There are several types of locomotive brakes: Independent brakes: Independent brakes are applied only on the locomotive. The locomotive can use these brakes when it is operating light, that is, without being coupled to cars. When the locomotive is coupled to cars, the locomotive brakes can be applied and released independently of the train brakes.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Speed mph km/h 1 mile per hour (mph) is equal to 1 1.6 1 kilometer per hour (km/h) is equal to 0.
HOW TO DRIVE A... STEAM LOCOMOTIVE This chapter covers the basic operations of steam locomotives in general, and descriptions of the Microsoft® Train Simulator versions of Flying Scotsman and the Gölsdorf Series 380 locomotives in particular. The locomotives’ specifications appear after the general 6 CHAPTER description of the trains modeled in the simulation.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK WHAT IS A STEAM LOCOMOTIVE? 1 2 3 5 6 4 1 Smoke Box 3 Fire Box 5 Cab Control Room 2 Boiler 4 Pilot Truck 6 Tender Note: The terminology used throughout this Engineer’s Handbook is American English. See the Sidebar for some differences in American and British terminology. The simplest explanation of the operation of a steam engine is that the fireman creates steam and the engineer uses the steam to move the train.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Note: All of the steam locomotive Activities in Train Simulator feature passenger trains. However, you can use the Activity Editor to create Activities that use steam locomotives to pull freight trains. For more information about Activities, see Chapter 10, The Activities. For more information about the Activity Editor, see Chapter 12, Editors and Tools.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Cylinder Cocks: The cylinder cocks can be opened to allow steam that has condensed into water to escape from the cylinders after the locomotive has been left standing. Water must be drained from the cylinders because it is uncompressible and can blow out the seals of the cylinder if pressurized by the pistons. When the train is in motion, the cocks should be closed, since steam can escape through them.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Dampers: The dampers are the primary control of airflow to the firebox, and therefore the amount of heat given off by the fire. Open the damper doors to add air and increase heat; close the damper doors to reduce air and lower the heat level. You may end up leaving the damper doors open for the entire journey. Blower: The blower keeps exhaust gases moving through the exhaust stack, causing a vacuum that draws air through the firebox.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK OPERATING A STEAM LOCOMOTIVE In Train Simulator, the steam engine has been thoroughly checked, lubricated, and fired up for you when you take the controls. Moving the train 1. Double-check the boiler water level using the Boiler Water Gauge. Note that the Boiler Water Gauge is a sight glass (water tube). 2. Make sure the Reverser is set to 0 (zero) cutoff, the Regulator is closed, and the cylinder cocks are open.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Stopping a train The amount of braking required to stop the train depends on the train’s speed and weight, the locomotive’s braking power, and the grade of the track. Take these factors into consideration when planning a stop. As you approach the stopping point, close the Regulator. Apply light brake pressure to take up the slack in the train if your train contains cars with couplers that have slack action (such as freight cars).
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R Problem: ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Black smoke What it means: Black smoke indicates inefficient combustion of the coal. How to diagnose: Black smoke is expelled from the exhaust stack. How to avoid: Over time, you will gain experience in firing the locomotive. In general, black smoke is caused by a cool fire, often due to an inadequate amount of air passing through the firebox.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK FLYING SCOTSMAN London & North Eastern Railway’s No. 4472 Flying Scotsman, the third of Sir Nigel Gresley’s A1 “Pacifics,” was the first of the new locomotive series for the LNER. Debuting on February 7, 1923, Flying Scotsman represented the latest in British engineering and design. Named for the familiar, 61-year old King’s Cross to Edinburgh express train, No.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Flying Scotsman Specifications Note: 1 U.S. ton = 2,000 lb. (Also known as a “short ton.”) 1 metric ton = 1,000 kg = 2200 lb. (Also spelled “tonne.”) 1 Imperial ton = 2,240 lb. (Also known as a “long ton.”) Locomotive type & no.: Power source: Wheel configuration: Max. speed: Height: Width: Length (locomotive & tender): Weight (locomotive & tender): Tractive effort: Coal capacity: Water capacity: Brakes: LNER A1 4-6-2 8P, No.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK GÖLSDORF SERIES 380 The Gölsdorf Series 380 steam locomotive is one of 47 locomotive types designed by famed Austrian locomotive designer Karl Gölsdorf. The 380 is the freight cousin of the Series 310 passenger locomotive; both are well-known for their remarkably high boiler position, aesthetic conical shape and functional form. The 380 is a four-cylinder, compound locomotive. This means the steam is used twice before being exhausted.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Gölsdorf Series 380 Specifications Note: 1 U.S. ton = 2,000 lb. (Also known as a “short ton.”) 1 metric ton = 1,000 kg = 2200 lb. (Also spelled “tonne.”) 1 Imperial ton = 2,240 lb. (Also known as a “long ton.”) Locomotive type: Wheel configuration: Max. boiler pressure: Max. speed (permitted): Height: Width: Length: Weight (locomotive & class 156 tender): Max.
CHAPTER 7 HOW TO DRIVE A... DIESEL LOCOMOTIVE This chapter covers the basic operations of diesel locomotives in general, and descriptions of Microsoft® Train Simulator Dash 9, GP38-2, KIHA 31 locomotives in particular. The locomotives’ specifications appear after the general description of the trains modeled in the simulation.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK WHAT IS A DIESEL LOCOMOTIVE? 6 7 5 3 1 2 12 8 6 Motor Blower 7 Auxiliary Alternator 8 Main Alternator 9 Engine 10 Turbo Charger 11 12 13 14 15 16 11 20 Batteries Control Stand Electronic Controls Rectifiers/Inverters Air Intakes 13 10 9 4 17 1 2 3 4 5 15 14 Drive Shaft Gearbox Radiator Fan Radiator Sandbox 18 19 16 Air Compressor 17 Fuel Tank (one side) Reservoirs (other side) 18 Traction Motor 19 Wheel 20 Truck Frame A d
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK USING THE DIESEL-ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVE CONTROLS & GAUGES These are the descriptions of the various controls you will find on a Train Simulator diesel-electric locomotive. For more information and details see the online Help (press F1). Reverser: The Reverser determines the direction of travel. There are three positions: Forward, Neutral, and Reverse.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Ammeter: The ammeter shows the number of amperes of electrical current being drawn (for motive power) or generated (for dynamic braking) in the traction motors. On the GP38-2, the ammeter is also called the Load Indicating Meter. Brake Pressure Gauges: The Brake Pressure gauges display how much brake pressure is applied and how much brake pressure is available. When the brakes are applied, the equalizing reservoir and brake pipe pressure drop.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK To start a train on a level grade 1. Set the Reverser for forward or backward movement. 2. Release the train brake. 3. After the brakes have released on the entire train, move the throttle to the lowest setting and release the Locomotive Brake. If the train moves too quickly, control acceleration using the Locomotive Brake to prevent excessive in-train forces. If the train does not move, slowly advance the throttle to the next setting. 4.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Important: Train air brakes can be applied gradually but they cannot be released gradually; if you brake too heavily, you will have to fully release the brakes before you can try to apply them again. If this process is repeated too often in a short period of time, you can use up all of your air pressure and have NO AIR BRAKES, a potentially disastrous situation on a long, steep grade.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R DASH 9 DIESEL-ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVE The GE-9-44CW (commonly called “the Dash 9”) is a modern diesel-electric locomotive manufactured by General Electric. Using DC (direct-current) traction technology, the Dash 9 is part of the highly reliable and cost-effective line of locomotives descending from the Universal series of locomotives (nicknamed “U-Boats) that first hit the rails as part of the “Second Generation” diesel era in the early 1960s.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK GE-9-44CW (Dash 9) Specifications Locomotive type: Power: Max. speed: Gear ratio: Power source: Alternator: Traction motors: Max. starting tractive effort: Diesel-Electric 4,400 hp 74 mph (119 km/h) 83:20 Diesel engine GMG 197 Six GE752AH™ DC electric motors 142,000 lb (64,410 kg) Max.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R GP38-2 ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK The Heritage I Since its introduction by the Electro-Motive Division of General Motors in 1972, the GP38-2 diesel-electric locomotive has proven to be a popular and versatile performer for North American railroads, capable of tasks ranging from switching to pulling freight over the main line.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK GP38-2 Specifications Locomotive type: Power source: Power: Max. speed: Gear ratio: Alternator (rectified output): Traction motors: Diesel-Electric Diesel engine 2,000 hp 65 mph (115 km/h) 62:15 AR10 Four model D77 DC, series wound, axle-hung Max. continuous tractive effort: 52,000 lb (23,586.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK KIHA 31 The KIHA 31 is a dual cab (front and rear) self-propelled diesel-hydraulic passenger railway car. Unlike the massive GP38-2 and Dash 9 locomotives with their multi-thousand horsepower engines and electric transmissions, the KIHA 31 employs a modest and economical 246 hp engine coupled to a two-speed hydraulic transmission, similar to the transmission in an automobile.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK KIHA 31 Specifications Note: 1 U.S. ton = 2,000 lb. (Also known as a “short ton.”) 1 metric ton = 1,000 kg = 2200 lb. (Also spelled “tonne.”) 1 Imperial ton = 2,240 lb. (Also known as a “long ton.”) Locomotive type: Power source: Power: Max. speed: Height: Width: Length: Weight: Wheel configuration: Brakes: Diesel-Hydraulic Model DMF13HS diesel engine 246 hp 59 mph (95 km/h) 12 ft, 7 in (3.84 m) 9 ft, 7 in (2.92 m) 58 ft, 4 in (17.75 m) 33 U.
HOW TO DRIVE AN... CHAPTER 8 ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVE This chapter covers the basic operations of electric locomotives in general, and descriptions of the Microsoft ® Train Simulator versions of the Odakyu Railway 2000 and 7000 LSE Series, Amtrak® AcelaSM Express, and AcelaSM HHP-8 locomotives in particular. The locomotives’ specifications appear after the general description of the trains modeled in the simulation.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK WHAT IS AN ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVE? 8 4 3 1 5 2 10 7 9 6 1 Battery Pack 5 Central Block (Motor Block) 9 Coupler 2 Air Supply Unit Compressor 6 Traction Motors 10 Cab 3 Main Reservoir 7 Traction Motor Blowers 4 Auxiliary Block 8 Pantograph In 1893, General Electric produced the first electric locomotive, but it was to be many years before electrics were to become a common sight on the nation’s rails.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Electric trains are powered by electricity supplied either from overhead lines (catenary) or from a third rail. All of the electric locomotives included with Train Simulator use pantographs to access power from the overhead lines. (A pantograph is the mechanical linkage located on the roof of an electric locomotive, and sometimes a passenger car, that connect the train to its electric power line.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Brake Pressure Gauges: Brakes are a crucial part of operating any locomotive; there are several types of brakes in the electric locomotives. Brake Pipe Pressure Gauge: This gauge displays the pressure in the brake pipe. Equalizing Reservoir Pressure Gauge: This gauge displays the pressure of the equalizing reservoir.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK OPERATING AN ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVE Moving the train The locomotive has been unlocked and activated for you. To move the train 1. Raise the pantograph if it’s not already up. 2. Set the Reverser handle to Forward or Reverse. 3. Release all brakes. 4. Slowly increase the throttle. Stopping the train To apply brakes Move the brake handle towards the full application position.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK THE 2000 SERIES The Odakyu Electric Railway Company’s 2000 Series electric railcar was one of the first “Super High Technology” trains on the Odakyu routes that run through central Tokyo. The 2000s were designed with the commuter in mind, both for comfort and to ease the ever-growing commuter traffic on the Odakyu lines.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK THE 7000 LSE SERIES The Odakyu 7000 Luxury Super Express (LSE) is one of the “Romance Cars,” so-called because of the unusual luxury it offers compared to typical Japanese commuter trains. On the 7000 LSE, all passengers have seats, unlike commuter trains, in which passengers continue to squeeze in until the doors won’t close. The 7000 LSE also makes only a few stops, unlike the commuter trains, which stop constantly.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK AMTRAK ACELA EXPRESS The Amtrak® AcelaSM (pronounced “ah-CELL-ah”) Express is a new high-speed electric train built for Amtrak by the companies that manufacture the Learjet (Bombardier) and the French TGV train (ALSTOM). Each Acela Express trainset consists of five passenger cars (one First class and four Business class), a café car, and two 6,000 hp Power Cars (locomotives), one at each end.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Amtrak® Acela Express Specifications SM Locomotive type: Power source: Power, each power car: Max. speed: Height: Width: Length, each power car: Length, trainset: Weight, each power car: Weight, trainset: Max. short time tractive effort, each power car: Wheel configuration, each power car: Brakes: Bombardier ALSTOM Consortium high-speed electric power car Catenary from stationary electric generator 6,169 hp; 4,600 kilowatts 165 mph (265.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK ACELA HHP-8 The dual cab, 8,000 hp AcelaSM HHP-8 (sometimes called the HHL, the manufacturer’s abbreviation for “High Horsepower Locomotive”) is by far the most powerful locomotive in Train Simulator. It is also the only Train Simulator electric locomotive not permanently coupled into a trainset. The HHP-8 is designed to operate singly, or in a consist with only one other active locomotive, pulling up to 18 passenger cars.
OPERATIONS To complete Train Simulator Activities, you need to know more about railroading than just how to operate a train—you’ve got to learn the basic railroading rules and procedures for moving your train smoothly and on time. In this chapter on railroad operations you’ll learn about timetables and work orders, coupling and uncoupling, signals, speed limits, and more.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK PASSENGER OPERATIONS Passenger railroading is about safely moving passengers from one place to another in comfort and on time. In the Train Simulator Passenger Activities, you operate one of seven different locomotives on one of five different routes. There’s a big difference between steam, diesel, and electric trains, and between landscapes in the U.S., Great Britain, Austria, and Japan.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Activities, you pick up and drop off cars at industries along the Kalispell branch. In Yard Activities, you sort and assemble individual cars into trains in the Whitefish Yard. In all three types of Activities, you need to be familiar with the freight procedures explained in this section. Following the work order A work order is a list of tasks to perform during an Activity.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK COUPLING & UNCOUPLING Coupling and uncoupling cars and locomotives is a fundamental skill you’ll need to master, especially for Freight Activities. With a little practice, picking up and setting out cars on sidings, assembling consists in a yard, and cutting in additional locomotives when ascending steep grades will become second nature.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK REFUELING If your train is immobilized due to running out of diesel fuel, coal, or water, the Activity ends immediately. You can see your fuel, coal, water, and sand levels in the Train Operations window (F9). If an Activity requires you to get more diesel fuel, coal, or water, the Activity Briefing specifies a stop at a refueling station, coal tower, or water tower).
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK BELLS, WHISTLES, AND HORNS In Train Simulator, you don’t have to sound your bell, whistle, or horn anywhere except at ungated road crossings on the Marias Pass route, as explained above. But for a more realistic experience: Ring the bell (if your train has one) before moving. Ring the bell when arriving at a station (until stopped). Ring the bell when moving through a yard.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Note: On unsignaled track (commonly called “dark territory” in North America), safe operating distance between trains is ensured with “track warrants” that grant trains exclusive permission to occupy sections of track between certain mileposts or stations during certain time windows. In Train Simulator, the only unsignaled track is the Kalispell branch of the Marias Pass route.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Note: Speed limit signs look different on different routes, so see the Quick Reference Card for illustrations. Maximum speed limit Every route in Train Simulator has a Maximum speed limit at which you are permitted to drive if there is no Permanent Reduced speed limit or temporary speed restrictions specified for a given track section.
THE CHAPTER 10 ACTIVITIES The Activities are where you get to put your skills to the test in a realistic passenger or freight scenario while operating a steam, diesel, or electric train. You’ll read the briefing, complete your assignment on schedule, and then review your evaluation. Keep practicing—you’ll be railroading like a pro before you know it. In this chapter, we’ll explore the Activities—the essence of the Microsoft® Train Simulator experience.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK THE GOAL Your overall goal in a Train Simulator Activity is simple: complete the assignment presented in the briefing.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK BEFORE THE ACTIVITY BEGINS After choosing an Activity and clicking the Start button on the Route & Activity selection screen, you’ll see the train from the locomotive’s cab, with the simulation paused. The Operations Notebook is also displayed. As an engineer, it’s your responsibility to become familiar with the details of the assignment you’re about to undertake.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Speed limits Speed limits exist to protect railroad workers, passengers, freight, and equipment. You must obey all permanent and temporary speed limits as you drive. Train handling As you operate a train, you must keep passenger comfort and freight durability levels in mind, accelerating and decelerating carefully to avoid disturbing passengers and damaging merchandise.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK AFTER THE ACTIVITY ENDS When an Activity ends (because you completed it, made an Activity-ending error, or quit), the Activity Evaluation screen appears. Here you’ll find a summary of your performance, and the option to view a more detailed evaluation. The evaluation is saved automatically so you can watch your skills improve over time, and to savor as you strive for that “perfect” run.
CHAPTER 11 THE ROUTES In Train Simulator, you’ve got six detailed routes to drive or ride, spanning several continents and two time periods. Whether you choose the route from the Introductory Train Ride screen or select the challenge of operating a train yourself, you’ll find these routes make the railroading experience stimulating and challenging.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK MARIAS PASS Location: Montana, USA Route length: 152 miles (245 km) Railroad: The Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway Company (BNSF) Preferred Player-drivable locomotive: Dash 9 and GP38-2 diesel-electric locomotives Computer-controlled locomotives and trains on route: Genesis P40 (AMD 103) Empire Builder, SD40-2, GP38-2 Just as Europeans spent years looking for a Northwest Passage around North America to get their ships to Asia faster, so
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R MARIAS PASS ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK BNSF There are more than 390 different railroad names in the BNSF family tree. BNSF operates a 33,500-route-mile freight rail network covering 28 states from Washington to Florida, two Canadian provinces, and connections into Mexico. Overall, BNSF employs about 40,000 people in the U.S. and Canada and generated revenues of about $9 billion in the year 2000. Web site: http://www.bnsf.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK NORTHEAST CORRIDOR Location: Northeast United States Route length: 133 miles (214 km) Railroad: Amtrak SM SM Preferred player-drivable locomotive: Acela Express and Acela HHP-8 high-speed electric locomotives Computer-controlled trains on route: Genesis™ P40 (AMD 103), GE E-60-CP SM The Amtrak® Acela Express is a new high-speed service between Boston, Providence, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R NORTHEAST CORRIDOR ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Amtrak Amtrak is the national U.S. passenger railroad, carrying more than 75 million passengers a year to over 500 destinations in 45 states. Created in 1971, Amtrak operates 265 trains a day over a 22,000-mile route system extending from Boston to San Diego.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK INNSBRUCK - ST. ANTON Location: Austrian Alps Route length: 63 miles (101 km) Railroad: Orient-Express Preferred player-drivable locomotive: Gölsdorf 380 steam locomotive Computer-controlled trains on route: 310.23 Traveling by rail across Europe at the end of the 19th century was difficult, uncomfortable, and burdensome. So it was a somewhat revolutionary idea when George Nagelmackers created la Compagnie des Wagons-Lits (CIWL, http://www.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R INNSBRUCK - ST. ANTON ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK The Venice SimplonOrient-Express On May 25, 1982, thanks to entrepreneur and rail enthusiast James B. Sherwood, the legend was reborn when the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express made its maiden run from London to Venice. Today you can travel along the same route as the one recreated in Train Simulator.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK SETTLE & CARLISLE LINE Location: Northwestern England Route length: 72 miles (116 km) Railway, circa 1930: Midland Railway Player-drivable locomotive: LNER No.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R SETTLE & CARLISLE LINE ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Flying Scotsman Railways In 1996, Dr. Tony Marchington bought Flying Scotsman and formed Flying Scotsman Railways to fund the restoration of the elegant train. In order to assure Flying Scotsman’s continued preservation, Flying Scotsman Railways has created a program that keeps No. 4472 running most of the year, both on private heritage railways and on the main line. Web site: http:// www.flyingscotsman.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK TOKYO-HAKONE Location: Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefectures, Japan Route length: 55 miles (88 km) Railroad: Odakyu Electric Railway Company Player-drivable locomotive: 2000 and 7000 LSE Series electric locomotives Computer-controlled trains on route: 30000 EXE Odakyu’s Odawara line runs from bustling Shinjuku station in downtown Tokyo to the city of Odawara. The line is one of the longest private railroad lines in Japan.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R TOKYO-HAKONE ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Odakyu Electric Railway Company This company, founded as Odawara Express Railway Co., Ltd. in 1923, operates three railway lines in the Tokyo metropolitan area: Odawara line, Enoshima line, and Tama line. These lines extend over 120 kilometers (74.6 miles) and carry some l.84 million passengers daily—over 670 million people a year.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK HISATSU LINE Location: Kyushu island, Japan Route length: 53 miles (86 km) Railroad: Kyushu Railway Company Player-drivable locomotive: KIHA 31 Computer-controlled trains on route: KIHA 140 Constructed in the first decade of the 1900s, the Hisatsu line was the main railroad line in Kagoshima prefecture on the southern Japanese island of Kyushu. A number of people died during construction of the line, especially digging Yatake Tunnel.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R HISATSU LINE ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK Kyushu Railway Company Kyushu Railway Company (also known as J.R. Kyushu) was founded April 1st, 1987. Based in Fukuoka, Japan, it employs over 12,000 people. The company is very involved in the enrichment of Kyushu’s tourism and leisure resources. J.R. Kyushu runs a fleet of high-speed urban and intercity trains, while proudly maintaining the historic Hisatsu line as an important part of Kyushu’s past. Web site: http://www.
THE EDITORS CHAPTER AND TOOLS 12 In addition to driving the different trains and routes included in Microsoft® Train Simulator, you can tap your own creative resources by using the Editors and Tools. With these tools you can create your own routes, import 3-D objects into Train Simulator from other sources, and create your own custom Activities.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK BEFORE YOU BEGIN To successfully create and edit your own Train Simulator components, it’s important to understand these tools are for experienced computer users only, and that they are not supported by Microsoft Technical Support. Note, however, that each Editor and Tool has its own online Help system. To launch an Editor 1. From the Microsoft Windows® Start menu, select Programs. 2. Select Microsoft Games. 3. Select Train Simulator. 4.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R The Cab Editor The cab is the interior of the locomotive as seen by the engineer. With the Cab Editor you can create an interactive view of the cab for a locomotive. You can design where you want to place working levers, warning lights, display screens, and gauges. All of the player-drivable locomotives included in Train Simulator already have cab views. If you want to create your own drivable locomotive you will need to create a cab for that locomotive.
M I C R O S O FT T R A I N S I M U LATO R ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK OPERATION LIFESAVER, INC. Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to reducing injuries and fatalities caused by train collisions with vehicles and pedestrians. Did You Know… In the U.S., roughly 900 people die on the tracks every year and 1,800 are injured in 4,000 rail-related incidents.
