Projects
The primary project in the works now is a full featured grade crossing
controller board.
Features:
1. DC or DCC compatible. Uses just two external detectors per track.
One bi-directional approach section, one island section. Compatible with
any open collector style detector, or can be driven from an accessory decoder.
I suggest using a current detector such as the RR-Cirkits BOD for the approach
section, and an I-R spot detector for the island section. That way you
will not require resistive wheel sets on all cars.
2. Supports up to 3 tracks per single board. The two "expansion" sections
can be used to control a different crossing controller board if unused.
I.e. If you have two crossings, one with a single track, the unused expansion
section can be used at the second crossing for a total of 5 tracks. Expansion
is unlimited.
3. Fully prototypical action. (based on the older fixed block boundaries,
not the new pulse coded speed detection style)
4. Controls flashers at the federal minimum rate of 48 impulses per
minute or greater.
5. Delay before gate lowering. (includes driver circuit for stall motor
actuator)
6. Bell sound IC and amplifier included on the controller board. (uses
ICCT DM320 IC)
7. Multiple options for bell sound cutoff. (gates down, train entering
island section, 10 sec., 20 sec., 30 sec., continuous with flashers.)
8. R-C timing circuits allow for user modification of timings to suit
your layout and operations.
9. Flashing circuit jumpered for common anode LED operation includes
a realistic fade of brightness for each lamp to simulate the slow fade
of prototype lamps caused by their filament soft start circuits.
10. Flasher driver jumper options allow for driving common cathode
LED, common anode LED, or open collectors for driving incadecent lamps.
11. Optional fast cutoff of bell and flashers after passing of train
if no gates are being used. (waits for detector delay only)
Status:
Kits now available.
Last updated 9-27-00