What is the most common type of isolator card used in traffic signal systems?

The most common type of isolator card used in traffic signal systems is the loop detector card. Loop detector cards are integral to traffic management and control as they detect the presence of vehicles at intersections, which helps in adjusting signal timings based on real-time traffic conditions. This capability is pivotal for enhancing traffic flow, reducing congestion, and increasing overall safety on the roads.

Loop detectors are embedded in the pavement and work by measuring changes in inductance caused by metallic objects, such as vehicles, passing over them. This data is then relayed to the traffic signal controller to make timely adjustments to the signal phases.

In contrast, other types of cards like video detector cards and emergency vehicle pre-emption cards serve specialized purposes that do not encompass the everyday monitoring of vehicular traffic. While they may be used in conjunction with loop detectors, they do not represent the primary means of detecting vehicle presence. Signal override cards, typically used for specific override functions for emergency vehicles, also do not partake in the fundamental vehicular detection that loop detector cards provide.