I have four NJ international semaphores (I plan to use 2) is there a way that I could attach them to my rails to actually control my trains so they , well at least two trains. Or should I contact NJ for the proper installation for these?
Tom
Train control
Oh if it were so easy...
You'll end up with a few circuits to control the trains, and this is a involved conversation. Have a look around the web for "automatic" or "automated" train control.
I'm planning a computerised system that controls the signals to train movements, as well as providing a degree of automation; i.e. run the trains for me in a scenic capacity, or provide control only at red signals, etc.
I'll provide updates as I move forward, but its early days. CTI will be the core of the system.
Dennis
England
Dennis,My friend George
Dennis,
My friend George (who doesn't post here) has recently installed the CTI system on his model railroad. Having had opportunity to play with his stuff and do a little programming, I have to say, the computer-control bug is biting me too, and it's becoming an itch. I'm interested in what you have to say on the subject and would love to see what you are doing with it. Looking forward to seeing your updates as they occur.
First...
I'll be more than happy to share; for now though its mainly getting things "ready", running wire, installing switch motors, signal planning, etc.
Gradually I'll build up both the hardware (sensors, controllers, etc) and software that runs it all, improving as I learn more.
Stay tuned...
Dennis
A new form of DC Automation
Guys - I belong to the Fremantle & Districts Model Railway Association here in sunny Western Australia. We build our layouts based on funds from exhibitions at shopping centres (malls) and need to run the entire layout with just 2 people.
We therefore build all of our layouts with DC automation which has hitherto used old telco relays! I have dragged them kicking and screaming into the 21st century by developing an automation system using small block-specific controllers which provide full automation and semi-manual control as well.
It also requires no PC to drive it, nor any programming in its present form. I have plans for much more complex control including full routing based on train consist... which will use a PC for co-ordination. It also manages signals and points for you automatically (though it's only 2-aspect at the moment.)
I thought you'd like to know about it so here's a website I threw together to cover some details: milleng.com.au/dcpro
Let me know what you think...
Paul
Welcome Paul,Thanks for
Welcome Paul,
Thanks for posting... please take a moment and add a link to the site in our Links section...
You may also want to submit a Story about this new system, when you're ready.
By the way, I'm a Busso boy, and we also have a couple of other members from W.A.
It's great to have you join us... I hope you stop by often, and contribute.
--
Bryan
Joined: 2007-04-01