NextBus

This article is about a vehicle tracking system. For the NeXT computers bus, see NuBus.

NextBus is a vehicle tracking system which uses global positioning satellite information to predict when the next bus will arrive at any given bus stop, thereby eliminating wait times and any need for schedules for all transit riders. This system was developed by NextBus, Inc., not only for buses, but also for trams, light rail operations and other public transportation vehicles.

Overview

Each vehicle is fitted with a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, which transmits speed and location data to a central location where a computer running proprietary software calculates the projected arrival times for all stops in the system using this data along with configuration information and historic travel times. These times are then converted to a 'wait time' and made available via the NextBus website and electronic signs at bus stops and tram stops as well as cell phones, and other wireless devices via the Internet.

Usage

NextBus provides a real-time passenger information system for all routes for several major transportation agencies including San Francisco Municipal Railway, AC Transit (which services the East Bay region of the San Francisco area), Washington DC WMATA, Los Angeles Metro, Boston MBTA, and the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). The system is also available in many other smaller Universities and public transportation agencies for a total of approximately 80 systems.

External links

• www.NextBus.com
• Portland, OR - Streetcar
• Emeryville, CA - Emery Go Round
• Vail, CO - Vail Transit
• East San Francisco Bay, CA - AC Transit
• San Francisco, CA - Municipal Railway