What Are Safety System Plugins?

Safety system plugins are small software modules that simulate real-world train protection systems inside OpenBVE. They add a layer of operational realism that goes far beyond simply driving between stations — you must respect signals, observe speed limits, and acknowledge warnings or face an automatic emergency brake application.

Plugins are especially common in Japanese-style routes and trains, where real-world safety systems like ATS and ATC are standard equipment. Understanding how they work makes the simulation far more rewarding.

Common Safety Systems in OpenBVE

ATS-S (Automatic Train Stop)

ATS-S is the most basic Japanese safety system. It works as follows:

  • A trackside transponder sends a signal when you approach a red signal.
  • A warning bell sounds in the cab.
  • You must press the ATS reset/acknowledge button within a set time or the emergency brakes apply automatically.
  • If you pass the red signal without acknowledging or stopping, emergency brakes engage immediately.

ATS-P (Pattern-based ATS)

ATS-P is a more advanced system found on busier Japanese lines. It continuously monitors your speed against a calculated braking curve:

  • The system knows the distance to the next restrictive signal and calculates the maximum allowable speed at every point.
  • If your speed exceeds this pattern, service brakes are applied automatically.
  • If you continue to overspeed, emergency brakes engage.
  • ATS-P allows you to approach signals more efficiently than ATS-S without stopping unnecessarily.

ATC (Automatic Train Control)

Used on high-density urban lines and Shinkansen, ATC actively controls the train's speed ceiling:

  • The cab displays a continuously updated speed limit set by the system.
  • If you exceed it, brakes apply automatically — no driver acknowledgement needed.
  • ATC is "always on" and requires no button presses, making it less interactive but more restrictive than ATS.

How Plugins Are Installed

OpenBVE plugins are typically .dll files (Windows) or .so files (Linux/macOS). Installation works like this:

  1. The plugin file is placed inside the train's folder.
  2. The train's ats.cfg file references the plugin by filename.
  3. When you load that train in OpenBVE, the plugin loads automatically.
  4. No manual installation to the OpenBVE program directory is needed — plugins are self-contained per train.

Key Plugin Controls (Typical Keybindings)

Function Default Key
ATS Reset / Acknowledge S key
ATS-S Enable F5
ATS-P Enable F6
ATC Enable F7
Emergency Brake Backspace

Note: Exact keybindings depend on the train's plugin implementation. Always consult the train's readme.

Troubleshooting Plugin Issues

If a safety system isn't working as expected, consider these checks:

  • Plugin not loading: Verify the DLL/SO file is in the correct train folder and the ats.cfg path is accurate.
  • Immediate emergency brake on start: Some plugins require you to enable the correct safety mode before releasing brakes. Check the train's manual.
  • Linux/macOS compatibility: Some plugins are Windows-only DLLs. Look for cross-platform equivalents or use Wine as a workaround on Linux.
  • Wrong plugin for route: If the route uses ATS-P beacons but your train only has ATS-S, signals may not function correctly.

UK Safety Systems: AWS and TPWS

For UK routes, the common safety systems are AWS (Automatic Warning System) and TPWS (Train Protection and Warning System). AWS gives a horn/bell warning at caution signals, requiring acknowledgement. TPWS enforces speed limits at certain points and stops at signals passed at danger. These are implemented through similar plugin mechanisms to the Japanese systems.