De-risking Rail Projects Through Early Systems Integration

At the Singapore Rail Test Centre (SRTC), MSI offers a comprehensive facility to provide Off-Site Integrated Testing (OSIT). This is to enable all the critical rail subsystems including rolling stock, signalling, platform screen doors (PSD), communications, and integrated supervisory control systems (ISCS) to be validated as a fully integrated system before deployment on the mainline.

By enabling early validation in a controlled environment, OSIT helps to identify and resolve system integration issues before on-site testing begins — improving delivery timelines, reducing operational risk, and increasing confidence in operational readiness.

Purpose of OSIT 

• Validate end-to-end integration of systems supplied by multiple E&M contractors
• Test system functionality, safety, and performance in both normal and degraded modes
• Provide a proven set of validation results to support downstream testing & commissioning
• Support regulatory compliance and licensing requirements
• Enable operators and stakeholders to gain early familiarity with the systems through understanding their integrated system behaviour

Realistic Testing Environment

OSIT can be conducted at SRTC premises, an off-site facility, featuring several key highlights:

• A 3km at-grade straight test track that supports high-speed train movement, and 2 loop test tracks that enable different testing scenarios
• One physical station and two virtual stations for simulating station stops and platform operations
• An Operations Control Centre (OCC) to enable centralised monitoring and control
• Interfacing and integration with systems such as Platform Screen Doors (PSD), Station Travel Information Displays (STIS), Emergency Stop Plungers (ESP), and Staff Protection Key Switches (SPKS)

This infrastructure replicates real-world rail conditions to allow for comprehensive system testing — without affecting a live rail network.

Structured, Phased Approach to OSIT

The OSIT programme can span from 6 - 24 months through a rigorous, multi-stage process:

Pre-OSIT Activities

Ensure all systems are interface-ready for full-scale testing via:

• Train-borne Preparation Tests: Confirm installation, power-up, and basic data exchange on-board train
• TIMS Integration Platform (TIP) Tests: Validate interface logic and communication protocols using actual train equipment

OSIT Execution

• Interface Tests: Verify interoperability across E M subsystems
• Functional & Operational Tests: Simulate service operations and degraded scenarios
• Safety Tests: Assess fail-safe behaviour and emergency responses
• Performance Tests: Measure stopping accuracy, responsiveness, and system throughput
• Regulatory Tests: Support requirements such as Fault-Free Runs (FFR)

All tests are conducted with participation from the various E&M system contractors, under the coordination of the Consultant/ Client.

Why OSIT at SRTC?

• Early detection of integration issues
• Reduced project commissioning risks and delays
• Provide higher confidence level and stronger assurance for operators, transit agencies and regulators
• Enables early stakeholder involvement and operator training
• Provides a comprehensive facility for on-site Testing & Commissioning