Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the length of a train utilizing received signal such as a reference signal from a global positioning system or the like is disclosed. A first receiver receives a signal, such as a reference signal from a global positioning system or the like, from which a first position on a train may be determined. Similarly, a second receiver receives a signal from which a second position on the train may be determined. A processor, operatively coupled to the first and second receivers, determines the length of the train based on the first and second positions.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the position of one or more locomotives in a train consist is disclosed. A receiver is mounted to each locomotive in a train consist. The receiver receives a signal such as a reference signal from a global positioning system determines a coordinate position for that locomotive. A processor determines a relative position for the locomotive in the train consist based on its determined coordinate position. This process is periodically repeated for each locomotive in the train consist so that the configuration of locomotives in the train consist may be tracked or verified as cars are added or removed from the train.