Abstract: A communication network having a plurality of nodes and a controller, a plurality of intermediate nodes in communication on a one-to-one basis with the plurality of first target nodes to be programmed. A first file containing a first executable program is transferred in parallel to each of the intermediate nodes. Intermediate nodes then, in parallel, program a respective first target node. The intermediate nodes may begin programming a respective first target node upon receipt of a sufficient portion of the first file to initiate programming or may begin upon receiving the complete first file. The intermediate nodes may also have connected thereto a respective second target node and may program the second plurality of target nodes simultaneously and in parallel using either the first file already transferred or a second file containing a second executorial program transferred in parallel.

Abstract: A method of serialization including providing a parameter which varies along the length of the train and transmitting a synchronization signal along the length of the train to the local nodes at each car. The parameter is measured at each node with respect to the occurrence of the synchronization signal at the node. Serialization of the cars is then performed as a function of the measured parameters. One method is to provide the parameters by transmitting a serial signal which propagates through the train at a slower rate than the synchronization signal and then measuring the difference in time between the receipt of the synchronization and the serial signal at each node. A second method of implementation is to create a pressure gradient in the brake pipe along the length of the train. The brake pipe pressure or flow rate is read at each node upon receipt of the synchronization signal. As a third alternative, an electric load is provided at each node in parallel to a trainline running through the train.