Geared Steam LOL Sheldon posted in "Electronics and DCC" I wonder if his PC caught on fire.
LOL
Sheldon posted in "Electronics and DCC" I wonder if his PC caught on fire.
Good to see that you know the name of this sub forum - Electronics AND dcc - because there where electronics running model trains LONG before there was DCC, and lots of non DCC electronics still run model trains and do other things on model train layouts.
Having had the pleasure to program and install some of the first Programmable Logic Controllers used back in the early 1980's for industrial controls, I have just a little experience with "electronics".
It is that experience with electronics, and many years of industrial control design and installation experience that allow me to "roll my own" control system rather than buy high priced "plug and play" DCC.
Don't confuse me with those who might be "afraid" of technology, rather I am one who understands it well enough to know when I do and don't need or want it.
My PC was cutting edge when I bought it 10 years ago - that's why I'm still using it - it's almost time for an upgrade.
My house has a carrier signal based whole house automation for a number of features, a system designed and installed by me.
I drive a car with in dash navigation, hands free bluetooth to my phone, voice command controls, backup camera, and I use all its features.
I have fiber optic cable, Internet, and land line phone, a big flat screen TV, two DVR's, Blue Ray player, killer sounding surround sound/Hi Fi speakers I designed and built my self and very nice digital camera.
I have a cell phone, but I don't take pictures with it or send "text messages".
BUT, I don't have a smart phone, Ipod, Ipad, tablet, programable thermostat, laptop (well my wife has one), or DCC - because I don't NEED or WANT them.
My trains run on pulse width modulated wireless radio throttles, I use solid state current detectors for my signal system, but I don't have my CTC panel on a computer screen - I like old fashioned clicky buttons and switches for that stuff.
My little trains don't need sound - because two 1" speakers can only make noise, anoying noise actually, not the sound of a train. Maybe one day I will do sound under the layout with real speakers.
My little trains don't need brains, because I used mine to plan a control system that meets my needs and wants - not what someone else says I should want.
Oh, and did I mention that I operate a lot of DCC layouts that belong to others? Well I do.
Sheldon
Joe Staten Island West
Main, Zone, Local - pretty much describes the hierarchy of the control elements and the way they are used. To explain it all and how it's wired needs an article, or rather, several articles. The issues of MR where Ed Ravenscroft wrote about it are the best source - since they ARE the source. Some older articles with prior forms of cab control might be helpful as background, because things evolved to MZL, it wasn't just created out of a vacuum.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
You take yourself and this stuff way too seriously. Although I do admit I find it entertaining, I'm really not concerned what goes on in Sheldon's world.
As far as you finding me condescending to Lion, that's your problem. I merely stated that his layout control system is designed for him, and may not be the best approach for other modelers and clubs. Lion sent me a very humorous PM, that we both enjoyed. Lion can take care of himself (he is a lion after all)
Relax Sheldon, no one will kick your door down and steal your DC.
Cheers
"The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination."-Albert Einstein
http://gearedsteam.blogspot.com/