I have a DC operated layout. I have in my engine roster an Athearn Genesis A/B F-unit, both powered and with a DC/DCC sound system. The sounds (bell, horn, flanges etc.) are controlled by a Wireless Remote Transmitter (WRT). The WRT however only functions when the locomotive is wihtin a limited distance from it,when the locomotive is more than 1 foot away from the WRT the sound decoder doesn't respond reliably, mosttimes it doesn't respond at all. So I started thinking: the WRToperates with radio impulses of various frequencies(anyway that's what I think), why not send these impulses directly to the locomotive via the track. I stripped off a little of the insulation of the WRT antenna and connected it to the track and discovered that now even if the locomotive is at the other end of the layout (10 feet away) the sound decoder responds flawlessly to the WRT. It doestn't matter whether the WRT is connected tot the + or - rail, both work equally well. As far as I could see the impulses don't interfere with the running quality of the locomotive.
Hans
Warining! Technical Content!
I wonder what the impedance of that track is, and if it changes when turnouts get moved? Tie it into the TV and get rid of cable!
Also where is the ground plain? Must be a basement layout.
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