block occupancy

[Anonymous]

Is there any way to have working block signals , without tapping into your computer?[?] And I'm using MRC prodigy dcc, n scale.

[nfmisso]

Yes; but is alot cheaper to buy an old used computer like a Pentium II for $100-, and follow the series that started in Jan 2004 MR.

[Anonymous]

I was thinking I could still use my dcc, but divide my layout into blocks with insulated rail joiners, and just run power leads to each individual block to keep my power on the train, but keep the signals isolated. Oh well, I guess I will stick to the model rr method. Is there any special program you have to have on the pc to make it work?

[nfmisso]

QUOTE: Originally posted by csx80

Is there any special program you have to have on the pc to make it work?

Software starts in the March issue, Jan & Feb are hardware.

[Anonymous]

I am working on this very issue as well. From all of my research (I am using Digitrax,) either I have to use the DCC Block Occupancy dectectors (Digitrax makes one for their system,) or optical.

The other method is to use optical block occupancy detection. I am going to begin experimenting with this and just received my Circuitron DT4 Rolling Stock Detectors (4 sensors per board, $35.00 per board.)

The most advanced stuff is transponding. I don't know if this works with other DCC systems, and again the same block occupancy detectors from Digitrax must be between the isolated block and the dcc main feed. It then uses Loco Net to report back to the system on occupancy by voltage draw, or can be combined with special transponding sensors that will report more precise info on the transponding decoders in the block.

My problem is all of the voltage based occupancy detectors require voltage draw. While that is ok for locos, I like long consists and do not want to modify each car. Hence, I am trying the optical stuff soon.

Good luck.

[der5997]

I've gone for Cds cells switching relays to light lamps. (overkill perhaps, but I can add features other than just the lamps throught the relays) one for each end of the passing track in question. This is because I want to know more than just the block occupancy status. I need to know when a train gets to the end of the passing track, before going foul. My application is in hidden trackage in a tunnel. I had the circuits on hand from a previous layout. Also, I haven't bought my DCC system yet, so wasn't too concerned about decoders.