Just want to run this past members on this forum. I have a small DC layout that uses 9 of Dr. Bruce Chubb's original Optimized Detectors. These feed block status into an Arduino microcontroller. Since then I have acquired several DC/DCC locomotives. I also purchased the MRC Tech 6 to give me full control over the sound features but switch to DC for most of my fleet. Dr. Chubb's web site indicates that you can still use the OD for DCC. Converting to the newer ODDCC would not detect my DC locos so that is not an option. Does anyone out there have experience using the original OD with DCC?
His site says it is DC only.“For non-DCC applications.”https://www.jlcenterprises.net/collections/optimized-dectectors/products/optimized-detectorMel My Model Railroad http://melvineperry.blogspot.com/ Bakersfield, California Turned 84 in July, aging is definitely not for wimps.
the schematic for the OD detector shows a pair of diodes in series with the track used to detect current flowing thru the track.
i would think the NMRA Basic Block detector would work just as well and is simpler using an opto-isolator to deal with polarity and voltage translation and only requires 5V instead of +/- 12V
since both circuit detect current thru the track, i don't see why either circuit wouldn't work for both DC and DCC. works for DC only when there is power applied to the track
greg - Philadelphia & Reading / Reading
From the JLC website:
"The DCCOD is specifically designed for DCC equipped railroads. If you already have ODs, you can use them with DCC...."
What seems certain is that you cannot use DCCODs with DC layouts.
nycmodelDoes anyone out there have experience using the original OD with DCC?
For non-DCC applications. The OD is a small card that senses current flow in a section of track to determine block occupancy.
I used current sensors on my layouts for about 40 years from the Twin-T circuit to the Rob Paisley Circuits.I bought my DCC equipment in 2005 and the old current detection no longer worked when in DCC mode.I operate my layout in both DC or DCC modes. I piddled around for a couple of years with different types of detection before finally going with optical detection.Frankly I never liked current detection because of having to use resistors in my rolling stock so they would trip the current detectors.I used optical detection until I ran across the FC-51 IR Optical Detector Module.https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2047675.m570.l1313&_nkw=Infrared+Obstacle+Avoidance+Sensor+Module&_sacat=0Under $1 each in bulk off eBay.You can mount the LED and IR Sensors remotely under the track or across the rails.In hidden track areas I bend the LED & IR sensor 90° at coupler height pointed at the track.I use multiple FC-51s in the same block to increase the resolution, for catching a locomotive only operation.I’ve been using the IR detection (FC-51s) for over two years with no problems.Mel My Model Railroad http://melvineperry.blogspot.com/ Bakersfield, California Turned 84 in July, aging is definitely not for wimps.
The JLC website appears to have changed it's description of the OD capabilities. I guess I will find out next week when I install the MRC Tech 6. Thanks to all that replied. Merry Christmas.
nycmodel The JLC website appears to have changed it's description of the OD capabilities. I guess I will find out next week when I install the MRC Tech 6. Thanks to all that replied. Merry Christmas.
I think you'll be fine. "For non-DCC applications" does not necessarily mean "for non-DCC only", and if you click on the product information link, the manual still says that it will work with DCC.
I agree with Robert. There is a section within the Product description USING ODs WITH DCC that says it will work on DCC.
https://www.jlcenterprises.net/pages/chapter3Mel My Model Railroad http://melvineperry.blogspot.com/ Bakersfield, California Turned 84 in July, aging is definitely not for wimps.
I knew I wouldn't wait until next week! This afternoon I hooked up the MRC Tech 6 Sound Controller. Tried both DC and DCCs mode. The Optimized Detectors (OD) worked as before with both modes. DCC functions as advertised.