Using a computer for signaling

[Anonymous]

I am interested in finding a way to use a computer to activate my signals. Has any one come up with a program to do this.

[dinwitty]

I have had ideas how to do this, but I think custom signaling needs the user to be a computer savvy.
it would use the serial handshaking similar to DCC, each signal could have its own address. then data is sent to it to set the signal indication.
or it could be totally serialized with each signal using a simple latch to transfer the data and hold the signal indication.
but additional signals would extend the data path so some software customizing along the way would happen.
I believe there are some DCC signaling stuff out there already.
And there are sftware comoanies making Computer Dispatcher panels with signal.

[bikerraypa]

There was a great series of articles on this very topic ("Signaling Made Easier") in the 1/04-4/04 issues of MR. It was really geared towards the DIY'er. I plan to follow those instructions when I start the new layout in the fall.


Ray out

[Big_Boy_4005]

Signaling is the final step in computer operations. First you need to have block occupancy detection. The series of articles to which Ray is referring, is the latest update of Bruce Chubb's CMRI system which does include all you need to do full signaling.

Here is the link to Bruce's website where all of the materials can be purchased. There is also a download containing some of the information contained in the series of articles.

http://www.jlcenterprises.net/index.htm

[Anonymous]

Thanks guys I'll look up all your suggestions and try to go from there

[wpsteve]

My layout is signaled using the Chubb system. I my opinion the only way to go

WP Steve web site http://members.bigvalley.net/norma

[ndbprr]

To my way of thinking it is overkill unless the PC is used for other functions also. My logic say's the key ingredient is block detection which is needed in any scenario. Back in 1978 MR ran an article about using two IC chips to control one way or two way signaling. $2-3.00 per block to make the signals work is a heck of a lot better than a $1000 computer doing the same thing.

[ahuffman]

The main point regarding using a computer is that it need not be a $1000 machine. The needs of running a signal system are so low that the old, oblsolete machine headed out the door to the junk heap is plenty powerful enough as long as it still works.

[Big_Boy_4005]

12 years ago I was running CMRI with the fastest available computer, a 386, and it worked fine. An outdated pentium 1 is ultra overkill to operate an entire railroad, and as the others have said can be picked up cheaply, if you don't have one laying around.

The difference between the computer and the chip method is the amount of power and flexibility you get with the computer. Once things are wired, it is all software, which can be easily changed. It is then possible using DC or DCC to move on to full automation, including train control.

[bikerraypa]

QUOTE: Originally posted by ahuffman

The main point regarding using a computer is that it need not be a $1000 machine. The needs of running a signal system are so low that the old, oblsolete machine headed out the door to the junk heap is plenty powerful enough as long as it still works.

That's what I figured. I have a Compaq Armada craptop that was headed for the trash, even though it works. Total cost: zero. [:D]

Ray out

[Anonymous]

The easiest way that I know of to use a computer for controlling model railroad signals is JMRI. In addition to signal control, you get a GUI decoder programmer, computer platform independence, DCC system independence, and much more. Plus, it is all open source (no fees). See http://jmri.sourceforge.org. There are a series of clinics scheduled for the National Convention in July. In addition, other people have been holding clinics at local conventions and shows.

[Daveinnj]

I use CTI modules. The programming is simple and will run on any Wondows or DOS PC. Worth a look.

www.cti-electronics.com

Dave

[bawbyk]

JMRI - is available at http://jmri.sourceforge.net.

the JMRI software contains DecoderPro, PanelPro, and some other interesting things.

Free for download --

Yahoo group -- http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jmriusers for help or advice
Bob