Factsheet #: Ertms Levels

factsheet # 3
september 2017
TM
ERTMS LEVELS
DIFFERENT LEVELS TO MATCH CUSTOMER’S NEEDS
The ERTMS “levels” define different uses of ERTMS as a train control system, ranging from track to train
communications (Level 1) to continuous communications between the train and the radio block centre
(Level 2). Level 3, which is in specification development phase, will further increase ERTMS’ potential by
introducing a “moving block” technology and reducing trackside equipment for train detection. Whilst
it is commonly acknowledged that to date, ERTMS level 2 offers considerable benefits, the use of level 1
already brings significant advantages for the railways and allows for High Speed travel.
What is ERTMS level 1? What are the advantages?
ERTMS level 1 is designed as an add-on to or

overlays a conventional line already equipped
with lineside signals and train detectors.
Communication between the tracks and the
train is ensured by dedicated balises (known
as “Eurobalises®”) located on the trackside
adjacent to the lineside signals at required
intervals, and connected to the train control
centre. Receiving the movement authority
through Eurobalises, the ETCS onboard
equipment automatically calculates the
maximum speed of the train and the next
braking point if needed, taking into account
the train braking characteristics and the track
description data. This information is displayed The main benefits brought by ERTMS Level 1 are
to the driver through a dedicated screen in the interoperability (between suppliers and countries) and
cabin. The speed of the train is continuously safety, since the train will automatically brake if exceeding
supervised by the ETCS onboard equipment. the maximum speed allowed under the movement authority.
What is ERTMS level 2?

What are the advantages?
As opposed to level 1, ERTMS level 2 does

not require lineside signals. The movement
authority is communicated directly from a
Radio Block Centre (RBC) to the on-board unit
using a radio channel (GSM-R). The balises
are only used to transmit “fix messages”
such as location, gradient, speed limit, etc.
A continuous stream of data informs the
driver of line-specific data and signals status
on the route ahead, allowing the train to Whilst enabling greatly reduced maintenance costs through
reach its maximum or optimal speed but still the removal of lineside signals, ERTMS Level 2 also presents
maintaining a safe braking distance factor. the possibility for substantial line capacity increase by
enabling higher operational speeds and offering reduced
headways: more capacity means more trains moving, thus
more benefits.
ERTMS Level 2 provides the same interoperability and

safety benefits of Level 1.
What will be the features of ERTMS Level 3?
ERTMS Level 3, still in its conceptual phase,

introduces a “moving block” technology. Under
ERTMS level 1 and 2, movement authorities are
determined using “fixed blocks” - section of tracks
between two fixed points which cannot be used by
two trains at the same time. With ERTMS level 3,
accurate and continuous position data is supplied to
the control centre directly by the train, rather than
by track based detection equipment. As the train
continuously monitors its own position, there is no
need for “fixed blocks” – rather the train itself will
be considered as a moving block.
Is it possible to upgrade from one level to the other?
Yes – ERTMS allows for a smooth migration from one level to the other. For
instance, upgrading level 1 to level 2 mainly necessitates the installation of
the radio network, the Radio Block Centre and some additional balises for
positioning.
Introducing Level 3 will enable the train to monitor and report its own integrity
thus releasing the need for track detection circuitry e.g. axle counters and/or
track circuits.
Why should I opt for one ERTMS level or another?
ERTMS has been designed to meet the railways’ needs and this is reflected by
the different levels available. The existence of another signalling system on the
line, the possibilities to equip the line with GSM-R technology, the maximum
speed allowed or capacity upgrades, are amongst the factors which come
into play when choosing a particular ERTMS Level. However, it is commonly
acknowledged that ERTMS Level 2 brings the full benefit of the system to
a reality, as it allows for increased capacity and significant costs savings for
maintenance through the removal of lineside signals.
What is the difference between ERTMS

“levels” and ERTMS “baselines”?
ERTMS “baselines” (or System Requirements Specifications – SRS) designate the technical
baseline of the ERTMS software – the current legal versions are known as “2.3.0d” for
Baseline 2, 3.4.0 and the recently adopted 3.6.0 (which entered into force on 05 July 2016)
for Baseline 3. All currently operating levels are defined in each version of the SRS.
S u p p l i ers
© UNIFE 2018
Want to know more about ERTMS? Please check www.ertms.net or contact UNIFE at ertms@unife.org

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factsheet # 3

What is ERTMS level 1? What are the advantages?

ERTMS level 1 is designed as an add-on to or

What is ERTMS level 2?

As opposed to level 1, ERTMS level 2 does

ERTMS Level 2 provides the same interoperability and

ERTMS Level 3, still in its conceptual phase,

Is it possible to upgrade from one level to the other?

Why should I opt for one ERTMS level or another?

What is the difference between ERTMS

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