Atlas track switch question

[Fred Bear]

Wired up to DCS, two loops but they are tied together with a double slip switch, one of those big monsters from Atlas. It's a nice working switch. Here's my question. Can I somehow rig that switch up so everytime a train approaches, it flips the switch prior to the train arriving? I think I used to do something like that with conventional Lionel 1666's, and tubular track and Lionel switches. Can the same thing be done with the DCS and Atlas track & switches? Thanks to all, Jake

[eZAK]

Yes you can Jake,

But you would have to use an MTH IR detector or control rail and relay.

[willpick]

Jake, the only way to make an Atlas switch non derailing is to use an insulated control rail to trigger a CD unit that will apply a voltage pulse to the switch machine.(this duplicates the pulse from the Atlas switch button). The Atlas switch coils will burn out if energized for too long. The CD(Capacitive Discharge) unit provides 1 pulse, then the voltage will stay at near zero volts until the train has passed, then it recharges, ready for the next trigger.

Atlas does sell a relay that can be used for the stated purpose, but I don't know how much it costs---

HTH--