Which roof-mounted device collects electrical power from the overhead 845-volt system?

Which roof-mounted device collects electrical power from the overhead 845-volt system?

• A. Switcher
• B. Beacon
• C. Pantograph
• D. Collector

Answer: (C)

Power collection from overhead lines on electric trains is performed by a roof-mounted device that maintains continuous contact with the overhead conductor as the train moves. This device is called a pantograph. It typically rises from the roof and uses a carbon or similar conductive shoe that presses against the underside of the overhead wire, letting current flow into the train’s traction system. The mechanism uses springs or other force systems to keep constant contact despite wind, vibration, and terrain changes, and it is designed to handle the voltage level of the system, such as 845 volts. A beacon is a signaling device, not a power collector. A switcher refers to a locomotive used for yard moves, not to a roof-mounted power pickup. A collector is not the standard term for the overhead contact device in this context. So the pantograph is the roof-mounted device that collects electrical power from the overhead system.

Power collection from overhead lines on electric trains is performed by a roof-mounted device that maintains continuous contact with the overhead conductor as the train moves. This device is called a pantograph. It typically rises from the roof and uses a carbon or similar conductive shoe that presses against the underside of the overhead wire, letting current flow into the train’s traction system. The mechanism uses springs or other force systems to keep constant contact despite wind, vibration, and terrain changes, and it is designed to handle the voltage level of the system, such as 845 volts.

A beacon is a signaling device, not a power collector. A switcher refers to a locomotive used for yard moves, not to a roof-mounted power pickup. A collector is not the standard term for the overhead contact device in this context. So the pantograph is the roof-mounted device that collects electrical power from the overhead system.