In message , Phil Richards
writes

"We recognise that the provision of real-time information at Turnpike
Lane station via the dot matrix information screens could be better. The
reason for the lack of information on the westbound platform is because
trains are constantly entering service at Arnos Grove where there is a
depot. In addition to this there are sidings at Wood Green where trains
are often reversed from eastbound to westbound. The information for the
indicator boards is picked up from signals sent by the track and
therefore with trains entering from different areas it is not possible
for the boards to show any more than the next train. This is also the
case at Bounds Green and Wood Green. Until the technology is upgraded
this will always be the case."

Not very impressive, I have to say. So it begs the question if the best
they can do is base information only once a train leaves Wood Green,
then why bother at all with any equipment at all?

The equipment is being fitted/updated as part of the station
refurbishment specifications. Unfortunately the signalling that they
will be linked into won't be upgraded for about 5-6 years, so they have
been plumbed into the existing system so that they at least give as much
information as before. This kit is being installed now so that they
won't have to disturb all the stations again in a few years when the
signalling is updated.

I suppose the other options would have been to:

Fit them at the station refurbs but leave them turned off (but can you
imagine all the complaints of 'wasted money')
Not fit them but start disturbing the stations in about 4-5 years to fit
them all (cue why did they not think ahead and fit them when the
stations were refurbished)

Whichever way they decided to do it, I'm sure they would have been
wrong!
--
Steve Fitzgerald has now left the building.
You will find him in London's Docklands, E16, UK
(please use the reply to address for email)