Let's hear it for the voices!

[OldProf]

I'm very impressed by the voices used in TSW. The narrating voice (the one that provides instructions, local color commentary, and so on) speaks very good, clear, well-paced General American with an encouraging lilt to it. I wonder if it could provide calm corrections when the player uses the wrong control or setting. The radio chatter audible in the cab is also speaks with a clear American accent, remaining in the background and is not on a short loop, unlike those in TS. This lends authenticity, which in turn enhances the overall simulation. Only one caveat here: while the other figures sometimes visible in the cab are sometimes female, I've yet to hear a female voice; but perhaps that reflects American railway reality.

[artimrj]

I have had a female dispatcher several times now running the services.

[OldProf]

I have had a female dispatcher several times now running the services.

Do you happen to remember which ones? Never mind, I'll find one sooner or later; the services are terrific -- like packing a dozen (or even more) scenarios into one.

[artimrj]

I am running the scenario Fully Fueled she clears us to leave.

[ozinoz]

When we have been listening to the scanner while linesiding in the States, in my experience, it has been more common to hear female dispatchers than male. One question though, for those more knowledgeable in this area, is train "call signs" for want of a better term. From what I can remember, I thought the dispatched referred to the train by its lead loco number, eg: "CSX 8512" not "Train Q1670" Is that something particular to this company, as I dont recall it on the Transcon or Powder River or MRL, just loco number...

Just a thought. I noticed this on a video posted on one of the scenerios and it struck me as different that is all...

[GERUNIMO625]

Howdy,

On the UPRR we use leader number to identify ourselves while on the main. Once in a yard (or talking to the yardmaster) will we then use the Job ID. Only to alleviate confusion or clarify something will we use the Job ID with the dispatcher. Of course when talking to each other in passing, we use the Job ID as well, no one gives a hoot about the leader number, just whether or not the unit has an inward facing camera

Hope that helps.

[JerryC]

In my area, CSX dispatch refers to the Q-number when calling a train on the road. When giving instructions they ask for the lead unit and milepost. The train crews also call put the Q-number when passing signals. NS does the same.

When CSX was dispatched out of Jacksonville, you heard a lot more women than men here, but now out of Atlanta it is the reverse. NS in this area has more women dispatchers than men.