What is Quiet Time?

Understanding the Quiet Time Feature

Modern pedestrian crossing systems are designed to provide clear and accessible information to all users, including those who are blind or visually impaired. Newer Polara Accessible Pedestrian Signal (APS) and Audio Information Device (AID) push buttons include a feature called Quiet Time, which helps communities balance accessibility needs with neighborhood noise concerns.

Quiet Time is designed to be a feature that can be quickly implemented by technicians in the field.

What Is Quiet Time?

The "Quiet Time" is a programmable time of day period during which the APS/AID push button reduces its audible sound's volume. This feature is commonly used in residential areas, near schools, hospitals, or other locations where minimizing nighttime noise is desirable.

While Quiet Time affects the audible indications produced by the APS/AID, the push button continues to operate normally and still provides all other functionality including placing pedestrian calls.

How Quiet Time Works

When Quiet Time is active, the APS/AID can be configured to:

• Reduce the volume of all sounds by a set amount from 0% to 75%
  • (note, 0% is typically only used in conjunction with Sleep Mode and no volume reduction is desired)
• Activate Sleep Mode functionality (for more details, see associated article)
  • Only available on 2-Wire APS systems (iNS2/iDS2/iN2)

Why Is Quiet Time Important?

Both Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) and Audible Information Devices (AID) are intended to assist pedestrians in locating push buttons and identifying when it is safest to cross. However, continuous audible sounds can sometimes be a concern for nearby residents, especially during overnight hours.

Quiet Time provides a balance between:

• Maintaining accessibility for pedestrians
• Reducing noise impacts on surrounding properties
• Supporting local ordinances or community preferences regarding nighttime sound levels

Quiet Time Scheduling

Quiet Time must be programmed with a start time and an end time. For example:

• Quiet Time Start: 10:00 PM
• Quiet Time End: 6:00 AM

During this scheduled period, the APS/AID automatically switches to its reduced-volume or Sleep operating mode. Once the programmed end time is reached, the unit automatically returns to normal operation.

Accessibility Considerations

Even when Quiet Time is active, accessibility remains a priority. Agencies should carefully evaluate intersection conditions before significantly reducing APS/AID sounds. In APS installations, vibrotactile indications remain available so that pedestrians can still receive crossing information through touch.

The appropriate Quiet Time settings should be determined based on:

• Pedestrian needs
• Traffic conditions
• Environmental noise levels
• Local accessibility requirements and standards