Any issues connecting Multiple DCC Current Sensing Detectors on the same Block?

[steffd]

Hello,

I would require some information please. I recently purchased a Lenz Set-100 with several LB101 Dual Block Occupancy detectors and LR101 Feedback modules for computer operation and monitoring. However, I am already using a BD8 Block Occupancy Detector from W.S. Ataras The Signaling Solution http://www.wsaeng.com/Signaling_Solution/ on my layout which also operates on the current sensing principal utilized to drive my dual aspect signals for block protection.

I would like to inquire if there would be any conflicts if I use the Lenz LB101’s http://www.lenz.com/products/modules/lb101.htm to monitor the same blocks as the BD8’s assuming the common rail connections remain the same? Any pertinent information regarding this matter would be most helpful and appreciated. Thank you.

Stephan

[ereimer]

i don't have an answer for your question , but i'd like a little clarification please .

do you intend to use the LB101's as a replacement for the BD8 or in addition to BD8 , and in either case , why ?

[rrinker]

Ditto. I gotta wonder why you would need more than one detector on a given block. Most block detectors can support more than a single load - for example an LED AND a connection to the feedback unit. Or even 2-3 LEDs plus the feedback, depending on the detector circuit.
Anything downstream of a current sense detector that draws power will activate the detector.

--Randy

[steffd]

QUOTE: Originally posted by ereimer

i don't have an answer for your question , but i'd like a little clarification please .

do you intend to use the LB101's as a replacement for the BD8 or in addition to BD8 , and in either case , why ?

To ereimer and Randy,

Thanks for your replies. To clarify my initial question; I actually intend on using both the LB101’s and BD8 on the same blocks. The reasons for using both is that the BD8 is already installed on the layout and will be used exclusively for operating the signals. The Lenz LB101’s on the other hand will be linked to Lenz LR101 Feedback modules and will be used to monitor and control trains using my computer with the Railroad & Co, Train Controller software. I’m just wondering if there would be any conflicts between the two if both are monitoring the same blocks.

Stephan

[rrinker]

It's hard to tell the kind of output the LB101 provides, out of a dozen different detectors it is the least documented. But it appears to be an open collector output just like the BD8. In which case the line from the BD8 that feeds the signal circuit can ALSO feed the LR101.
You can't put one downstream from the other, they both draw power and the downstream one will cause an occupied indication on the upstream one. Nothing should be between the detector and the track, not even a track power LED.

--Randy

[ereimer]

QUOTE: Originally posted by rrinker

It's hard to tell the kind of output the LB101 provides, out of a dozen different detectors it is the least documented. But it appears to be an open collector output just like the BD8. In which case the line from the BD8 that feeds the signal circuit can ALSO feed the LR101.

--Randy

or you could replace the BD8 with the LR101s to send signals to both the signalling system and the LR101 and sell off the BD8