Challenges of Aging Traffic Signal Cabinets
As a city’s traffic infrastructure advances, outdated traffic cabinets can cause serious issues. Older systems often lack support for network connections, making it impossible to integrate them with central management. Obsolete controllers often fail to integrate with advanced traffic algorithms, and outdated equipment frequently lacks support for the installation of new technology, making it challenging to implement smart city solutions. With older equipment becoming increasingly expensive to maintain, cities struggle to address traffic issues using today’s technology.
A Phased Approach to Modernization
Instead of making a complete switch to new equipment, Western Systems allows upgrades in phases. Cities can now upgrade important infrastructure step-wise, which reduces the idle time and cost. Through Western Systems, agencies find out which upgrades have immediate benefits, such as inserting new controllers with better connectivity, AI Detection, or reusing compatible parts in new cabinets. This way, cities gradually add smart technology and continue to link it to their existing old systems.
Custom and Modular Cabinet Solutions for Today’s Needs
Western Systems uses a modular way of designing traffic cabinets to make sure every piece of equipment is organized and doesn’t waste space. The cabinets are designed to correspond to the unique demands of various intersections and agencies. The space-saving design allows for the use of existing detectors and modems within the cabinets, and still makes room for additional upgrades. A battery backup inside the main cabinet reduces the time, cost, and effort required during installation. With modular designs, cities will find it much simpler to integrate with new technologies.
Integrating Adaptive and Connected Technologies
Western Systems designs cabinets that can work with modern traffic management system features, such as real-time data monitoring and adaptive timing of signals. The cabinets can be used with advanced controllers that meet NEMA TS2 standards (read how TS1 differs from TS2) and are capable of linking to the central system or using an adaptive algorithm. As a result, cities can opt for public transit or advanced traffic control systems without requiring any major infrastructural changes. Western Systems designs its cabinets to stay current with technology, offering IoT connectivity and remote monitoring. The cabinets are also built to resist both water and dust.
Meeting Standards and Ensuring Compliance
Since Western Systems’ traffic cabinets meet industry standards, they are eligible for federal funding and can be used together with existing intersection hardware. These cabinets meet the NEMA standards of TS1 and TS2, allowing them to function with regular controllers in the United States. Additionally, all the produced cabinets are in accordance with the Build America, Buy America (BABA), thus supporting federal funding initiatives and local manufacturers. Western Systems produces cabinets that are reliable, durable, and able to serve optimally even in harsh conditions for a long time.
Maximizing Longevity and Cost Efficiency
Cities can extend the life of their infrastructure by modernizing their traffic cabinets instead of completely replacing it. Cabinets manufactured by Western Systems have better cooling and surge protection, which means they need no frequent repairs or emergency replacements; their cabinets are also designed to resist dust and water. Because of their design, it is easy to upgrade these machines in the future, which saves time and costs. These traffic cabinets ensure traffic flows easily and reduce congestion; thus, they are a good investment for cities.
Modernizing Infrastructure in Partnership with Western Systems
Our solutions-oriented approach allows cities to upgrade their traffic cabinet infrastructure without the hassle of a full system replacement. We understand the unique needs and goals of city infrastructure, so our recommendations are completely customized to integrate new technologies and existing systems. This results in smarter, safer, and more efficient traffic control systems that enhance a city’s infrastructure over time. When transitioning to a state-of-the-art traffic system, Western Systems allows cities to do it step by step. Contact Western Systems today to get started!