In order to reduce the pantograph noise that greatly contributes to overall noise, we have developed two types of low-noise pantograph. Further noise reduction was realized by increasing the effects of attenuation of the pantograph noise insulation plate, and by using only one pantograph per train set. A multi-segment slider was also developed to increase the performance of following the overhead contact wire, which is imperative or essential when running with only one pantograph per train set. These countermeasures for pantograph noise have been installed on the FASTECH 360 (high-speed test trains of East Japan Railway Company). The measurement results by using a microphone array show that the pantograph peak noise is reduced by more than 2dB compared to that of the series E2-1000, trains now in operation.
