Is anyone familiar with this system? I am attempting to convert my street signal lights (traffic lights) and train signals from manual to a detection system.
Can anyone make some suggestions on what to use? I am not electrically inclined so I am learning as I go. In reading up on detection systems, the Walthers plug in connectors sounded easy enough to use as did NJ International. Does Circutron offer a more involved system and not one for a beginner?
Any thoughts on the above will be appreciated.
Thanks- RRC
Not sure about Circuitron. LogicRail has a neat system as does Signal Solutions (the "Cadillac" as Model Railroader calls it) and Bruce Chubb's C/MRI. Main thing to consider is how you want it to work with your control system. As I see it, traffic lights (I'm guessing you mean crossing signals) can work together but it has to use the same logic. At least as I understand it.
If you mean actual traffic signals, then who cares? Let it run on it's own. Just the traffic signals.
As for the Atlas system, they run their LEDs as positive (anode) common wired as opposed to the normal negative (cathode) common. This setup will not work with any other system other than Atlas (and one other that I can't remember) so that is something to consider.
As being a system for a beginner, any system will be rather involved in my opinion. Pick one that will do what you want for detection and run signals.
-Aksel
Can't give you any advice on the traffic signals. As far as the Atlas signals go I am using them on my layout, and believe me, I am no electrical wiz. I use the Atlas signals and control boards with the NCE BD-20 for train detection. My setup is pretty simple as I just use it for block occupancy, in some places one block ahead. I have no desire for computer control of the signals or trains so it works well for me. Set up is pretty straight forward.
Dave
'there's something happening here, what it is ain't exactly clear' Modeling the Hard Knox Valley Railroad in HO scale http://photos.hardknoxvalley.com/
"As for the Atlas system, they run their LEDs as positive (anode) common wired as opposed to the normal negative (cathode) common. This setup will not work with any other system other than Atlas (and one other that I can't remember) so that is something to consider."
Actually this is backwards. Atlas wires their signals with a common cathode (negative) whereas most other systems (and signal brands) use common anode (positive).
For what it's worth, our block signal product line includes versions for both wiring schemes.
Chuck Stancil
Logic Rail Technologies
I stand corrected.