Telecommunications

Overview

In this section we cover new telecommunications developments as they apply to intelligent transportation systems (ITS). The various components of ITS user services, including roadside transponders, variable message signs, and traffic signals, rely upon communication linkages in order to transmit and receive data. These components communicate with each other through various mediums, such as wireless networks, fiber optics, radio signals, and wireline connections. These modes of communication in turn comprise the telecommunications infrastructure that allows ITS user services to function efficiently, not only as independent systems, but also as parts of the larger network of intelligent transportation systems. In this regard, telecommunications systems planning and implementation is increasingly becoming a critical part of transportation system planning. The quality and manageability of the communications networks developed by public agencies will thus play a pivotal role in determining the degree to which ITS succeeds over the long term.

We have provided links to telecommunications diagrams, associated reports, and a glossary of telecommunication terms.