Crossing Signals

[ac4400fan]

Hi Guys
im going to my L.H.S wed morning to pick up some alternating led crossing lights,do these come with something to turn em on and off, in the track ,or whats the best way to get em working,with track sencers ?

any help thanks

carl[;)]

[cwclark]

you can install a sp/dt switch to turn them on and off yourself, use a train detection circuit to operate them, infrared and photocell train detection circuits...also, you can also use reed switches under the track ties but they are hard to install and get to work correctly plus you have to glue strong magnets to the bottom of the rolling stock and locomotives to get them to work...the best way to use them with train detection circuits is make the block long enough for an entire train to pass the road crossing before they go off...chuck

[dieselfan04]

I have a couple of signals protecting 4 tracks. First, I thought of using a block detection circuit for each leg. I later chose a simpler way to control each track. My layout is cab control and use DPDT switches for the controls. I use one side of the switch to wire in the circuit for the signals so that when I am using one of the blocks, the signals are activated. I also found a simple way of controling the flash. At Christmas, in the miniature houses, Lowes sells christmas lights for use on miniature trees and alternately flash between red and green lights and the rate is also adjustable.I think the slowest flash rate looks the best.

[BRVRR]

carl,
I checked out most of the known methods for controlling crossing signals automatically. Since I use DCC I wanted something automatic and reasonably priced. I finally settled on Berkshire Junction's circuits and infra-red detectors for my crossing signals. Under track photo cells might have worked, but I wanted to ensure that the detectors would work in the dark.
Below is a photo of my not-yet- completed crossing.

The IR detectors are in the equipment cases on either side of the road. The IR sources are semi-concealed in the bushes opposite.
The Berkshire Junction components went together easily and operated as advertised on the first try. The kit comes with two LED crossbucks, the electronics package, and two each, IR sources and detectors. All for about $50.00. You will need a 12V power supply for the electronics and IR sources.
Next is operating gates and a crossing bell. There are outputs on the existing circuit board to operate both.
I hope to have a 'how to' photo essay on the installation on my website by the first of May. The link is in my signature.

[ac4400fan]

Hey thanks allan
i will use this info my friend and let you know hoe it comes out ,im off to the hoppy shop tomorrow morning to pick up the crossing, signals

carl.