BlueHillsCPR wrote:Here are a few links to different detector circuits.http://home.cogeco.ca/~rpaisley4/IrProximity.htmlhttp://home.cogeco.ca/~rpaisley4/PhotoDetectors.htmlhttp://home.cogeco.ca/~rpaisley4/ATDetIR.htmlhttp://home.cogeco.ca/~rpaisley4/ATLaser.html
Here are a few links to different detector circuits.
http://home.cogeco.ca/~rpaisley4/IrProximity.html
http://home.cogeco.ca/~rpaisley4/PhotoDetectors.html
http://home.cogeco.ca/~rpaisley4/ATDetIR.html
http://home.cogeco.ca/~rpaisley4/ATLaser.html
If you are comfortable with building electronics this is good stuff. You can even purchase some of his PC boards. (making the boards is the hard part).
Karl
The mind is like a parachute. It works better when it's open. www.stremy.net
I understand that you have a double track mainline that is hidden. What is the detector circuit going to do for you? Block signaling, control panel feedback, switching, etc. Are you wanting detectors on both tracks?
I'm no Electronics engineer but there are others on the forum that know alot more than I do, they will probably help you out. I'll certainly do whatever I can to help you out.
There are several ways to detect trains.
1. A CdS cell (available at Radio Shack) that lets you know when light is or is not present. As long as there is sufficient room light they work pretty well.
2. A magnetic reed switch placed in the ties with a magnet on the train to activate. Ok but not the best.
3. An infrared transistor circuit that one piece emits infrared light and the other collects it. the train can break the beam to signal occupation.
4. A torroid coil around the power feed that lets you know current is being passed hence an engine.
there are probably several others but all will need additional electronic input to work signals. if all you want is an LED on your panel saying a track is occupied that is a much easier circuit. What you want to do with the signal is important to provide the right circuit.