Hacked R/C

[bleggblogg]

hello. 

Has anybody ever hacked the r/c from a car or something similar and used it to control a locomotive? Alternatively, could the r/c gear from such a source be used in a manner similar to Train Engineer, in which it controls power to the whole track?

Any ideas?

 -Arthur

[TonyWalsham]

Hello Arthur.

Whilst it is perfectly possible to use the R/C and speed controller from an R/C car there are a couple of drawbacks.

1. R/C cars usually run on a lower voltage than required to run our LS trains.  This usually means the speed controller can only handle up to, say 8.4 volts, when up to 18 volts is needed.

2. The  cheap AM R/C usually supplied with R/C cars is very prone to glitching.  That is the sudden jerking backwards and forwards caused by Radio Frequency Interference (RFI).

It is perfectly possible to marry the R/C part with an R/C controller, usually called an Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) to provide glitch free control, whether on board in the loco or trackside to control the track voltage.

The really big advantage the car type R/C's have is, they are very low cost.  Typically US$40 for a complete Futaba TX & RX and two servos.

The main disadvantage is the TX's are big and clumsy compared to the purpose designed R/C systems such as my RCS.  RCS does make ESC's suitable for use with car type R/C.  These are sold under the EVOLUTION R/C banner.

You pays your money and you make your choice.

Good luck.

 

[spikejones52002]

I tried using a ESP to control track power.

All the disadvantages listed above are correct.

Plus you can not release the troddle and continue running. R/C are set to immediately return to Zero at any lose of signal.

Another is that the Controler has reverse in the other half of the gimble . So you degree of control is small so you change speed quickly.

[two tone]

Hi Just a warning about using car R/C as the other post says it can jump forward and back this could lead to stripped gears which are costly take care.   Put the right cash and enjoy the hobby   Dont cut corners

[FJ and G]

I hacked a motorboat R/C and run my trains with it. Uses an ESC as well

 

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