Track detection

[gondola1988]

Is there other track detection systems that are compatable with Digitrax and JMRI , I'm running HO with a Dcs100 and 2 db150s and app.900 ft of track. Any help is appreciated,thanks Jim.

[rrinker]

 There are several, if you don't want to use the Digitrax BDL-168. For one nice one, check out RR-CirKits at http://www.rr-cirkits.com/. You can also DIY by building the LocoIO boards from Hans Deloof's site and connect detectors like the ones from RR_CirKits. Team Digital also has detectors and interfaces that work with Loconet.

                                     --Randy

[Renegade1c]

I highly recommend the RR cir kits block detection. I have it partially installed it on my layout. I currently have 32 blocks connected up with another 16 or so to go. The whole system is very easy to install and works very well. It also is completely isolated from track power which reduces drain on boosters.  I built my dispatch panel is JMRI's Panel Pro to manage and control logic. The whole system is very much plug and play and fairly inexpensive compared to other detection systems. It can also run signaling if you choose to do so. I am still debating between the SEC8 and RR cirkits signaling system.

[tricky_trev]

Hi,
For the actual current/train detection, I'm using a variation of Rob Paisley's circuit:

http://home.cogeco.ca/~rpaisley4/DccBOD339393.html

I made my own PCBs, and if I wish to broadcast over Loconet, then I will send the status's to a self made "throttle" or a Tower controller (http://www.rr-cirkits.com/TowerController/index.html) to broadcast any block status changes to a dummy loco address on LocoNET that the digitrax PR3 will send into the pc/mac.

i think digitrax's solution of block detection for a medium to large size layout is just not affordable (hence the reason to create my own design).

Cheerio,
Trev

[rrinker]

 The BDL-168 is one of the least expensive per block detectors there is. I just don't like it because a) it uses a diode drop detection, which means you'll want to feed non-detected blocks throught he same type of diodes so your trains don't speed up and slow down, and b) it's centralized which menas lots more heavy gauge wire to run.

 Per port basis, probably the cheapest way to get data into the Loconet is Hans Deloof's LocoIO board, if you buy ONLY the bare board and shop carefully for the components. The PIC is the most expensive part and if you know what you're doing you can get them for a buck a piece or less.

                                          --Randy

[tricky_trev]

the problem with the 168 is indeed the centralised nature. i also don't like the 4 sub blocks (single rail cut) in 4 main blocks (dual rail cut)... my detection is cheaper.... costs me well under USD$10 per block which was the goal. diode drop detection is not a problem, as long as your whole layout is wired like that (which mine is).

Trev

[rrinker]

 You don;t HAVE to do the 4 sub blocks with a common rail plus 4 zones with double gaps, the BDL-168 works fine with all 16 detection sections on a single common rail. And even paying full MSRP for it, it's only a bit over $9/block Plus the cost of all the extra #12 wire needed by the centralized approach - distributed detectors are MUCH better.

                                         --Randy