From 1 October, train composition will be shared digitally in HCN Rail. As a traction supplier, you can download it from the HCN Rail web screens.Portbase offers several tools to help you prepare for the transition to Train Composition functionality. If you do not yet have access to the service, please contact us.
At the meeting of the Rail Connected steering committee in April, members agreed to the 1 October transition date for the use of the Train Composition functionality in HCN Rail at terminals connected to HCN Rail. Over the past few months, the rail operators’ software suppliers have been busy developing the API links for the Train Composition functionality; some will start sharing the train composition via the HCN Rail web screens. So it won’t be long before train compositions become visible to traction suppliers in HCN Rail!
What will be changing for you?
The terminal bases its operations on the scheduled inbound and outbound train composition shared by the rail operator via the Train Composition functionality. On completion of the operation, the ‘Download train composition (after operations)’ is available, showing the planned outbound train composition and any discrepancies in the remarks. Previously, the rail operator shared this list with the traction supplier, which used it for departure checks. Thanks to the Train Composition functionality, the list no longer needs to be e-mailed; the traction supplier can download it directly from the HCN Rail web screens.
How should you prepare for this transition?
Portbase offers several tools to ensure a smooth transition to the Train Composition functionality. This involves being included in the testing of the Train Composition API connections with the rail operators and the terminal. You can also use the instructions available online for downloading the train composition after the operation. We will also be holding a second webinar in mid-September to demonstrate how rail operators can upload train compositions and how traction suppliers can download them.
If you do not yet have HCN Rail, read what actions you need to take here.
Most traction suppliers can already download train compositions after operation in HCN Rail.
Note: this is only possible if the rail operator has uploaded both the inbound and outbound train composition in HCN Rail. Provided these have been shared, the train composition after operations becomes visible after the terminal finishes its operations.
Already have access to the PCS but not to HCN Rail? These permissions have recently been set up properly and you should be able to access the HCN Rail web screens. If not, please contact s.dorrepaal@portbase.com as soon as possible .
If you do not yet have access to the PCS, follow this step-by-step plan for for creating an IAMconnected account. This takes one day on average. Once you have access, you should request the HCN Rail service by e-mailing s.dorrepaal@portbase.com.