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Glossary
 
Audible beaconing

Need for audible beaconing
The need for audible beaconing may affect type of device to be installed and installation location. Not all manufacturers' devices are capable of providing audible beaconing. The need for beaconing should be evaluated and considered early in the design of the installation. (See audible beaconing in Walk indications)

A minority of crossings is likely to require beaconing and not all crosswalks at an intersection may need beaconing. Beaconing may actually cause confusion if used at some locations.

Recommended characteristics - APS installations where beaconing is needed
Recommended characteristics for APS at intersections where beaconing is needed. (in connection with either pretimed or actuated pedestrian signalization):
  • Pushbutton is needed;
  • Locator tone is needed;
  • WALK signal may come either from pushbutton-integrated device, or from pedhead-mounted APS aimed diagonally down and out, into the center of crosswalk indicated by that WALK signal;
  • In normal operation, WALK signal should be quiet, 2-5dBA above ambient sound;
  • Extended button press should result in a louder WALK signal followed by a louder locator tone (Max. 89 dBA) for the subsequent pedestrian phase only. (Length of time of extended button press is being determined by research; currently 3 sec is typical)
  • Sound should be increased only for the requested crosswalk.
  • Alternatively, beaconing may be provided by means of an alternating or far-side-only WALK signal followed by a louder locator tone for that pedestrian phase.
Recommended installation of audible beacons
Location of all speaker components of the APS within the width of the crosswalk is essential, as users will direct their travel toward the source of the sound.

See location of speakers drawings for specifications.

 

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