Route setting points to switch in sequence

Discussion in 'Other Electronic Interfaces' started by Toto, Apr 16, 2017.

  1. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    Just finished getting my layout running with turnouts operating manually on a one by one basis. Now, I would like to choose a command on my DCC throttle accessory button to set a route so that the turnouts operate under one command to " set a route "

    My turnouts are currently operated via a switch8 and Cobalts. I have had discussions on this previously on the good ship YMRC but have long forgotten the theory behind it.

    The first logical step is to get the turnouts firing in sequence then I can use the accessory switches on the Cobalts to bring in the ground signals that I shall be using.

    Where do I start ? And who wants to kick thus orf ? :avatar:
     
  2. Wizmacnz

    Wizmacnz Full Member

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    Not exactly the cheapest of solutions, but I use RR & Co to do this.
    Peter
     
  3. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    one of the issues i had with bronze was that it did not appear to support the NCE powercab.
     
  4. paul_l

    paul_l Staff Member Administrator

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    Several ways to go at this (there always are :avatar:)

    Better open a fresh tinnie

    As Peter suggests some form of computer control, RailRoad & Co, JMRI etc, etc.

    With your NCE system you could set up macros, but this may give you a few issues, as you have a PowerCab, SB5 and PowerPro systems, you woulds have to either stick to one of them for the layout, or enter the macro's into each device.

    Or as you also have an NCE mini-panel sitting in the drawer from Rosebuddy, you could program macros into that instead, and decide if you are going to trigger them from the handset, or via buttons on the layout.

    Ready for another cold one yet :avatar:

    Paul
     
  5. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    :scratchchin:

    Think the power pro with macros or JMRI. Preferably the latter leaving the power pro to run the loco's with.

    Toto.
     
  6. Gary

    Gary Wants more time for modelling.... Staff Member Administrator

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    I have no idea about all of this, but I'm taking note. Maybe one day I'll convert to Cobalts and programmable switching...

    Cheers, Gary.
     
  7. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    Hi Gary,

    It can be done with your powercab. Setting up macros. It would just be Cobalts that you would require I think so you are maybe a bit closer to it than you think. Correct me if I'm wrong Paul.

    If you buy the digital Cobalts as opposed to the analogue versions that I have, then you would not require a switch 8 either. However, as you say ........ Maybe one for later. :thumbs:
     
  8. ianvolvo46

    ianvolvo46 Staff Member Moderator

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    Having examined the problem and considered it over quite a few tintos I have reached the conclusion that stupour solves many things ...

    Ian vt
     
  9. Ron

    Ron Full Member

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    I just set up a 'Route' on the Prodigy, I even have a route for the station run-around! It sets up point direction and signals and even things like crossing gates if needed. I knew there was a reason I bought one!! :scratchchin:
     
  10. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    Spot on Ron.

    I think the NCE can do the same thing. Not sure about crossing gates but wouldn't be surprised. It's really just another switch setting.

    Great stuff as its takes the rush out of multiple accessory commands. :thumbs:
     
  11. Gary

    Gary Wants more time for modelling.... Staff Member Administrator

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    Toto wrote:
    But is it as reliable as wire in tube...??

    Besides, wire in tube keeps you fit, running up and down the whole 14" of the layout where I have the points laid !! :avatar::avatar:

    Cheers, Gary.
     
  12. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    Heyyyyyy ...... Cobalts keep you fit as well as you have to work overtime to pay for them. :avatar:

    I think there is ultimately something rewarding in both camps as it takes skills one way or the other. The results of both satisfying to watch when you see the delight of the audience who watch them being operated.

    One a very traditional approach and the other displaying how technology has helped the hobby evolve.

    I would not like to see the demise of either option. It's part of the fun choosing what route you go down.:thumbs:
     
  13. Gary

    Gary Wants more time for modelling.... Staff Member Administrator

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    You're right Toto. :thumbup: Plenty to learn about the Cobalts, the wiring, route setting (and finding faults...) ;);)

    Cheers, Gary.
     
  14. Ron

    Ron Full Member

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    :oops::oops::hammer:
     
  15. gormo

    gormo Staff Member Administrator

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    I like technology.......:thumbs:

    But I`m doing my points the old fashioned way I`m afraid.

    Route setting requires a route to be determined and then the whole lot depends on me throwing the right levers and flicking the right switches. I don`t always get it right, but it keeps me on my toes.!!!

    http://www.click:tophat:Gormo
     
  16. ed

    ed Full Member

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    Interesting.

    Basically you can't set a route or throw an individual point while your running a loco.

    Computer control or pressing buttons on the layout to activate a DCC accessory decoder to change points, ain't a million miles away from stud and probe or momentary contact switches on a mimic panel.

    So what's the advantage of DCC controlled points ?

    Ed
     
  17. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    You are right Ed. stud and probe etc can do it just as easy but using either a DCC controller or a computer lets you interface further. The computer would allow you to bring in scheduling and automation if you wanted.

    You could schedule certain services whilst retaining control of others yourself. Paul is heading that direction with Victoria Rosd. His DZmU's will be automated whilst his small goods or other loco's are actually driven by the operator.

    I'm not going that far but I would like to be able to set predetermined routes at the hit of say three buttons. Also, I am not restricted to being sat at a central control panel. It could be done from my handset or even a tablet.

    I'm only adopting this at a simple level at the moment and even that takes a little bit getting your head around.

    Cheers

    Toto
     
  18. Sol

    Sol Full Member

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    gormo wrote:
    And if you get it wrong, then you sack yourself from the signalmans position & go to the pub for a drink or two or...
    Don't ask me how I know that process either !
     
  19. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    :avatar:
     
  20. paul_l

    paul_l Staff Member Administrator

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    I suggest we save time, cut out the middle man and head straight for the pub - let the computer play trains on its own :avatar:
     

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