MaxTime signal software is Q-Free’s Linux-based traffic control suite that runs directly on ATC controllers, enabling web-based intersection management without special workstation software. This guide shows exactly how to access, configure, and deploy it in your traffic infrastructure.
Quick Start: Access MaxTime in 3 Steps
Most users search for MaxTime signal software because they need to either access an existing installation or evaluate it for deployment. Here’s the fastest path to both:
1. Locate Your ATC Controller
Confirm your intersection runs ATC 5.2b or later compliant hardware (MaxTime requires Linux-based ATC engine boards, older NEMA controllers need hardware upgrades first).
2. Connect via Web Browser
MaxTime runs a built-in web server. Enter the controller’s IP address in any HTML5 browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox). No software installation required on your laptop or traffic management center workstations.
3. Login and Configure
Use your agency-provided credentials to access the dashboard. First-time setup requires setting user roles, signal timing plans, and device manager accounts.
What Is MaxTime Signal Software?
MaxTime is a local traffic signal control suite designed specifically for modern ATC (Advanced Transportation Controller) hardware. Unlike legacy systems requiring proprietary software installations, MaxTime operates entirely through web browsers while processing data locally at the intersection edge.
Core Components:
- MaxTime ic – Standard intersection control with NTCIP/NEMA compliance
- MaxTime Adaptive – Real-time signal optimization without central systems
- MaxTime CV – Connected vehicle integration (SPaT/MAP broadcasting)
Key Advantage: Eliminates “black box” external processors. All applications run as secondary processes on the same ATC engine board, reducing hardware costs and failure points.
Step-by-Step Implementation Guide
Step 1: Verify Hardware Compatibility
Before procurement or installation, confirm your controllers meet these specifications:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Controller Type | ATC 5.2b or later |
| Operating System | Linux kernel (embedded) |
| Memory | Sufficient for multi-app processing (varies by intersection complexity) |
| Network | Ethernet/IP connectivity for web access and updates |
Pro Tip: If you’re upgrading from older NEMA TS2 controllers, factor in the ATC hardware cost, MaxTime does not run on legacy non-Linux firmware.
Step 2: Licensing and Procurement
Contact Q-Free or authorized distributors (regional traffic management solution providers) for licensing. Unlike SaaS products, MaxTime uses perpetual licenses per intersection with maintenance agreements.
What’s Included:
- Device Manager software (centralized MIB access)
- Manufacturer-specific MIBs (Management Information Bases) for interoperability
- Over-the-air (OTA) update capabilities
- Multi-language support (English, Spanish, French, and others)
Step 3: Initial Configuration
Upon first web login, you’ll configure:
User Management
- Create individual accounts (not shared logins)
- Set menu-level access restrictions (technician vs. engineer vs. supervisor roles)
- Enable audit logging (all timing changes are tracked by user and timestamp)
Signal Timing
- Import existing timing plans or create new phases
- Configure coordination patterns for corridors
- Set preemption and priority inputs (emergency vehicle, transit)
Network Settings
- Assign static IPs or DHCP reservations
- Configure firewall rules ( MaxTime uses standard HTTPS)
- Set up USB backup/restore options
Step 4: Enable Advanced Features (Optional)
For Adaptive Control:
Install MaxTime Adaptive alongside MaxTime ic. This creates a secondary application that automatically adjusts cycle lengths, splits, and offsets based on real-time detector data. No additional hardware required.
For Connected Vehicle Deployment:
Add MaxTime CV to broadcast Signal Phase and Timing (SPaT) and MAP (intersection geometry) messages to CV-equipped vehicles. Runs on the same ATC board as your standard intersection control.
Core Features and Specifications
Web-Based Management
The built-in web server eliminates software compatibility issues. Access intersections from:
- Traffic management center desktops
- Field maintenance laptops
- Tablets and mobile devices (HTML5 responsive design)
Security Features:
- Role-based access control (RBAC)
- HTTPS encryption
- Change logging and audit trails
- Secure over-the-air updates
Adaptive Signal Control (MaxTime Adaptive)
Unlike central system-based adaptive control (like SynchroGreen or SCATS), MaxTime Adaptive runs locally:
- Real-time adjustments: Changes timing every cycle based on demand
- Corridor optimization: Maintains coordination across multiple intersections without a master processor
- Seamless transitions: Switches between adaptive and time-of-day plans without flashing signals
- Retains local programming: Priority, preemption, and custom logic remain intact
Connected Vehicle Ready (MaxTime CV)
Processes V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) data at the intersection edge:
- Broadcasts: SPaT, MAP, SSM (Signal Status Messages)
- Ingests: SRM (Signal Request Messages), BSM (Basic Safety Messages), PSM (Personal Safety Messages)
- Applications: Dilemma zone detection, red light runner warnings, pedestrian/bike priority, speed recommendations
Comparison: MaxTime vs. Traditional Signal Control
| Feature | Traditional Systems | MaxTime Signal Software |
|---|---|---|
| Software Install | Required on each workstation | Web browser only |
| Hardware | Separate processors for adaptive/CV | Single ATC board |
| Updates | Manual site visits or proprietary systems | Over-the-air (OTA) |
| Remote Access | VPN + special software | Secure HTTPS web login |
| Standards | Varies by vendor | NTCIP, NEMA, MUTCD, FHWA compliant |
Frequently Asked Questions About Maxtime Signal Software
Q: Can I run MaxTime on existing traffic controllers?
Only if they are ATC 5.2b or later with Linux firmware. Older controllers require hardware upgrades. Contact your controller manufacturer to verify ATC compliance.
Q: Do I need a Traffic Management System (TMS) to use MaxTime?
No. MaxTime operates independently. However, it integrates with Q-Free’s Kinetic Signals or third-party TMS platforms for centralized monitoring if desired.
Q: What browsers are supported?
Any HTML5-compliant browser (Chrome, Edge, Safari, Firefox). Internet Explorer is not supported.
Q: How are software updates delivered?
Updates deploy via the web interface, either individually per intersection or scheduled centrally using the Device Manager tool. Updates can also be performed via USB as backup.
Q: Is MaxTime compatible with third-party sensors and cameras?
Yes. The included MIBs (Management Information Bases) enable interoperability with third-party detectors, cameras, and smart city platforms via standard protocols.
Conclusion
MaxTime signal software delivers modern, web-based traffic control without proprietary workstation dependencies or extra hardware boxes. For traffic agencies, the implementation path is straightforward: verify ATC controller compatibility, procure licenses per intersection, and configure via web browser.
The software’s edge-based architecture, running adaptive control and connected vehicle applications locally on standard ATC hardware, reduces both capital costs and system complexity while maintaining the reliability required for critical traffic infrastructure.
For procurement specifications or pilot deployment guidance, contact Q-Free directly or your regional intelligent transportation systems (ITS) distributor.