Editing Distributed power (section)

==Advantages and disadvantages==
The greatest benefit of distributed power—and the reason for development of the original concept—is the reduction of [[Draw gear|draw-gear]] draft forces, permitting a wholesale increase in the size of trains without exceeding draw-gear strength, through the use of mid- or end-of-train locomotives.<ref>{{cite web
|url=http://www.austehc.unimelb.edu.au/tia/382.html
|title=Railways in the Coal Fields of Queensland
|work=Technology in Australia 1788–1988
|page=382
|accessdate=2015-02-15
}}</ref> There are also potential train-handling benefits. Over an undulating track profile, a skilful operator can manipulate the relative power outputs (as well as dynamic- and air-brake applications) to minimize run-in and run-out of coupler slack throughout the train.<ref>{{cite journal |date=September 2010 |last=Lustig |first=David |title=Freight Train, Unbounded: Distributed power: It's a bigger deal than you think |journal=[[Trains (magazine)|Trains]] |publisher=[[Kalmbach Media|Kalmbach Publishing]] |volume=70 |issue=9 }}</ref>

Reduced draft forces along a train reduce the lateral force between wheel and rail on curves, thus reducing fuel consumption and wear on various running-gear components as well as the potential for a stringline derailment.

Another benefit is quicker application of [[Railway air brake|air brakes]]. With all braking control on a conventional train being established at the head-end, it can take several seconds for brake pipe pressure changes initiated by the operator to propagate along the train. Under radio-controlled DP operation, the brakes are set at remote locomotives almost simultaneously with the command initiated on the lead locomotive, providing a more uniform air brake response throughout the train.

The main disadvantage is the operational time needed, and track configuration required, to add and remove additional locomotive units.  Secondary disadvantages are the costs associated with equipping locomotives with the extra control apparatus and the potential for the intermittent loss of the telemetry signal. This latter is known as "communication interrupt" and is coped with by fail-safe software program inclusions.