signals and blocks

I am currently desiging a new board and would like to fully use DCC.

What options are there for controlling signals, both linked and unlinked with turnouts and block detection.

 

Do some research on these two sites for a start:

The Signalling Solution
Logic Rail Technologies

Our club is currently looking at these systems for future purchase on our layout. We use DCC, and the layout will be CTC with APB rolldown on the signal-track sections. Double-Track will be CTC interlockings. (Normally would be a "tower operator" but those don't exist on a model RR!)


------------------
Corey Lynch
Pres - Rensselaer Model RR Society, NEB&W RR
http://www.rpi.edu/~lynchc/Railfanning/railfanning.htm - My Site
http://www.union.rpi.edu/railroad/ - NEB&W

 

Thanks for the web sites

Also I found that digitrax has some useful examples for wiring as part of the pdf documents available on their site

Digitrax home page

 

Welcome, Gradger,

Let me reccomend two books, "the big book of DCC" published by digitrax. And Stan Ames book of DCC, you can find the latter by writing to Debby Ames support@lenz.com. Tell her Dante sent you.

There is a ton of stuff out there as Harron as mentioned. He is very knowledgeable and his advice is sound.

 

Hello Gradger.
Have a look at Zimo. It is the most complete system.Blocks and routes can be locked/unlocked. Can be used in manual or automatic mode with or without PC. Can be operated with a mouse on Your PC or directly from Your switchboard! Of course with train number display. Check it out at: www.mrsonline.net
Have fun Art

 

Welcome to TrainBoard Aluesch, Do you actually own a Zimo system? I've seen one in operation and it was amazing.
If you do can you give us a review, including $$, features, benefits, etc. Not too many stores in the Northeast carry them in stock.

 

Hello Chris.
Yes I do own a Zimo system for over 10 Years now. It is extremly reliable. Except for the ocasionel locodecoder that didn't like my static discharge during installation . But even those can be repaired! Zimo is around for over 20 Years. The owner is an electronic engineer and a model railroder. That explains all those features and the completenes of the system! I have 40 trains on my layout. Between 6 and 8 run simultaniously. The layout is fully automated and controlled by a 386 PC, using the STP software. Of course, it can also be operated manually, semi manually or automatic without a computer. Zimo is fully NMRA compatible.In addtition to controlling all DCC compatible decoders it is also compatible to the Motorola systems. A true CAN Bus architecture, which is used in many industries, is employd. It works as a LAN with multi-master capability. On this, modules for trackdetection, switches/signals, turntable, functiondecoders etc. are hooked up to.
Here are some of the features:
-Stabilized and adjustable track voltage (12-24V), 8 to 16 Amps.
-Multiprotocol (NMRA-DCC and Motorola)
-Programtrack can be fully used in layout.
-Built in Volt/Ampmeter.
-Multifunctional cabs such as Loco and accessory operation, programming, routes, block control etc.
-Bidirectional communication (infrared and radio)
-virtually noisless and very smooth motor operation, up to 32khz!
-More functionmapping then NMRA recommendations.
-Prototypical slow illumination and dimming of signal lights.
- signal controlled speed influence. eg. If a signal is "red" every train slows down and stops in front of signal. Any section of track can be set to either 3/3,2/3 or 1/3 of the selected cabspeed. And different for every engine! Used to automatically slow a train down before entering a station, Bridges etc. Every engine can be driven manually through such section by simply pushing a "MAN" button! Also very handy for a switcher which You want to drive past a "red"light.
-Loconumber identification, w/wo PC.
-High speed datalink 115kb/s.
-Functiondecoders (automatically turns coachlights on before entering tunnel, blows whistle at specific locations etc)
-true turnout position recogntion.( a route will not set if turnout switch is set in wrong direction)

I'm sure You have more questions. You find prices and more answers on my website (don't get scared those are Canadian Dollars). If not please e-meil me. I started to sell Zimo because as You mentioned there isn't enough of a presence on this continent.
Hope that's enough info for now.
Art
My Websit: www.mrsonline.net