Editing Multiple-unit train control (section)

{{About|the train control technology|multiple unit vehicles|Multiple unit}}
{{More citations needed|date=April 2009}}
[[File:Bielefeld_Jul_2012_4_(Hauptbahnhof).jpg|thumb|250px|Two [[ICE 2]] trains operating in multiple-unit train control in [[Bielefeld]], [[Germany]]]]
'''Multiple-unit train control''', sometimes abbreviated to '''multiple-unit''' or '''MU''', is a method of simultaneously controlling all the traction equipment in a [[train]] from a single location—whether it is a [[multiple unit]] comprising a number of [[Self-powered car|self-powered]] passenger cars or a set of locomotives—with only a control signal transmitted to each unit. This contrasts with arrangements where electric motors in different units are connected directly to the power supply switched by a single control mechanism, thus requiring the full traction power to be transmitted through the train.

A set of vehicles under multiple unit control is referred to as a [[consist]] in the United States.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://railway-technical.com/glossary/ | title=Glossary {{!}} The Railway Technical Website | quote=US term for train formation e.g. 'This vehicle was in the consist'. Now heard in the UK amongst trendy railway people. }}</ref>