Great video Charlie. Thanks for taking the time to put it together. Very quick question. I was hoping for transponding. You mentioned it’s not available. When looking at the versions of train control it looks like Silver and Gold include Digitrax transponding. Can you confirm that it really isn’t available in your version. I’m just wondering if there’s updated versions I should watch out for. Thanks Steve,
You thank your Patreons... I thank your Patreons! I thank you for your english of foreign language... as my running of trains is DC and basic DCC's bells, lights, and whistles... uh, possible "face-palm" collisions, various "oopsies", and "oh crap, how'd that happen?" I enjoy your efforts and education... and, of course, your "freelanced editorial statements"... of without, would not be humanly understandable. Digression and explanation is humorous yet important. Please keep up this good work. Standing ovations are well deserved for you. Continual gratefulness, John British Columbia, Canada P.S. Certainly, I thank your Patreons!
We use iTrain on our layout using an ESU ECOS, a Z21 and the Dijkeijs detectors. We have added touch screen monitors so have larger buttons to make it easier to use. Works very well, we can run around 11 trains at the same time, still adding details and scenery to the layout but happy to help if anyone is interested in using iTrain and setup etc. There is a really good forum for support with some experienced users who can help you out and the developer of iTrain is always commenting for support. Cost wise yes it can be rather expensive depending on what you want the layout to do, also it has taken a considerable amount of time to setup and get to run smoothly, still have the odd issue but is quite satisfying watching the trains run round on their routes. Great video as always Charlie 👍
Confession: I jumped from you introducing the BDL168 straight to the costings bit. Then you showed the Instruction Manual ring binder. Yes. Think I’ll stick to DC and buy a few more locos instead. Next video please!
Fascinating stuff Charlie. Costs are eye-watering though I can see the advantages of making your railway more realistic. Always tell how serious a video is by the amount of time you have your glasses on. Never underestimate your skill to make the most involved subject clear and easy to follow.
Thank you so much for all of your videos. I’ve just completed my bench work (about 85% complete) and I stumbled on your channel a couple days ago and have been watching a lot. You do a fantastic job at breaking the tasks down so common folk, like me, can understand. I look forward to watching more!
Hi Charlie - I’m running iTrain+Digikeijs DR5000+Digikeijs 4088/4018. Great system, well priced - bought it all from James at DCCtrainautomation whose support is amazing if you’re a customer. By the way the CS on the 4088 stands for current sensing if anyone’s wondering. Cheers Charlie, appreciate all the hard work you put in to your videos, very professional and enjoyable. Julian
By the time you add up the cost of all those components, the Viessmann Commander price does not look too bad. All covered straight out of the box and more, except for the block decoders. I've got one new and one second hand. Commander V2 has been delayed for years! So good luck finding it!
I spend all day at my JOB solving other people’s’ computer problems, usually created by themselves. What you presented looks like a lot of after hours WORK! I think my steam powered 1900 - 1913 era narrow gauge Copper mining layout in On30 can live just fine without block control. Nor will signals be required except maybe a semaphore for a station stop. Interesting video and well presented. I will say I did learn a few things. Thanks Charlie.
Fascinating stuff Charlie and extremely (as always) well presented and edited. it's something I've no intention of including as my layout's too small but the possibilities for a larger layout are incredible. Playing trains has certainly come a long way since I was a lad!
This video couldn't be any better timed if you tried, I'm currently 80% of the way through laying my track so far, and I've been curious what block detection is and what it's capable of. Thank you Charlie for your continuous videos of wisdom, your friendly nature and careful explanation in all your videos. Your guides are second to none. You've earned a subscriber and Patreon for life. Regards Tasmania, Australia, (PS I'm looking forward to when you hit 50k subscribers!)
HI Charlie, I am a returning hobbyist who is 13 years into retirement and restarting but just with N scale trains. In my time before I had an outstanding collection of O and Std trains. I never had too complicated an electrical system, so all of these digital approaches are mind boggling for a retired pediatric oncology nurse practitioner. This video has been exceptional! Thank you. RM
Hi Charlie, great video as always. We have spoken before but for your viewers (and you), I have gone down the Lenz/Train Controller Gold route, using a Lenz LZV100 box and LH100 hand throttle. I have a Lenz USB Interface connected to my PC (which was a bu&&er to set up BTW) all set up to 'help' control my extensive 4 circuit, double level loop covering 18' x 9' in my attic. I was very much influenced by Everard Junction's RUclips videos and original layout. I also have the Lenz equivalents of the BDL-168's (that come in units for 8 sections/blocks LR101 - 10 of at around £80 ea.!) Each of these require 4 smaller units - LS101's to manage pairs of blocks (about £30 ea.). I also have 15 x Lenz LS100 boxes (£85 ea.) for controlling all the points on the layout (each board able to manage up to 6 points). Learning, settin up and using Train Controller Gold was a fairly steep learning curve! Now though, I have the whole thing setup such that all I need to do is press the "1" key on my keyboard to start 2 trains "tail chasing" each other on one loop - similarly 2, 3 & 4 keys and I can have 8 trains running autonomously in seconds!! Obviously, that's for when I "demo" the layout for visiting guests! It's much more often I only set 2 or maybe three of these 'sequences' and manually "play" with another loco or two. Hope this is of interest to you all. Thx.
Another excellent video, Charlie! Three days ago I got my first DCC starter set, a Zepher Express, even though my new layout is a very small switching layout for one loco. My Walthers Plymouth switcher now runs smoothly at very slow crawling speeds. I also did my first DCC conversion, putting a Tsunami2 TSU-1100 and speaker into an old Proto 2000 SW9/1200. Whew! I had to remove the cab interior for the speaker and the extra weight for the decoder, but the results were worth it. I can now have very authentic sounds when I'm in the mood. The technology now is leaps and bounds beyond what was common in the late 90's when I did my last layout build. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience. Cheers from Wisconsin!
I finally got round to viewing this last night and as ever found it very informative. Some years ago I planned an n gauge layout with a couple of hidden storage yards to be controlled with TC which I had trialled on a test track. Due to various house moves it never got built but now having finally settled I have just completed laying track for the first yard and installed the wiring for block detection. I was stunned to hear you speak about the disparity in costs for the UK having not looked at it for a long while, the silver version appears to have gone from around £300 to around £450 and is now causing me to re-think my options. Many thanks for pointing this out before I had gone too far down the line so to speak.
I have gone down the route of microchips to control signals. They use simple logic to detect points and trains. I need a signaller to set routes but then you drive each train to the signals. No computer needed once the code has been uploaded to the chips. They can be expanded and have mimic boards etc and the whole thing on my large layout cost less than £200. Down side is I had to learn programming and it can't do train automation but would probably work with DC. Always something for everybody in our hobby, keep up the good work Charlie.
Hi Charlie. I’m like you a Digitrax man, with TrainController Gold software and a locobuffer USB interface. I bought all this stuff before Brexit when it was a bit cheaper. I must confess I found Dave Townend’s early McKinlay Railway videos very informative and I copied most of his ideas. The Digitrax and Train Controller manuals are comprehensive if confusing at times and the videos of Rudy at Rudysmodelrailway channel all helped make planning a complex layout more straightforward. I had little understanding of electronics but managed to plan out and construct my system which works really well. My system gives me the ability to run a timetable, change locos easily between trains and have a fully functioning signalling system. Most importantly, I can have several trains running with conflicting routes safely in a way that would be almost impossible to organise manually even with several operators. Great video. Thanks. Hugh
Hi Charlie. I use Digitrax SE8C units to power the signals but the SE8Cs are controlled by Train Controller. Your original SE8C video helped when I first set them up! I have accessory signals added to the TC switchboard (the TC inbuilt block signals don’t haveUK logic) and these instruct the SE8C units. The TC accessory signals change aspects using the triggers and conditions feature. The trigger is a combination of the correct route ahead being set up and the occupancy ahead being clear. Routes are set up ahead of trains when running automatically and thus set the signal. However, I can also set up routes manually using on screen push buttons in each block. I just touch the button of the block the train is in and touch button on the next block I want to move to and the points change and the signal changes to suit the route. This also works for entrance to a group of sidings from a main line. Signals on sections of plain line, where there are no diverging routes (blocks follow on one after another) are set up as automatic signals normally at green and change to red and then yellow and back to green again using occupancy of the routes ahead to act as triggers to show the correct aspect. Signals on blocks with various route and block options are set as controlled signals, normally red and only show a proceed aspect when the route is activated and clear. Hope this helps. I hope to do another signalling/switchboard video on my own channel sometime. I am still installing signals but have enough fitted to know it all works. It’s difficult stuff to explain in a few words! Well done again on all your videos. Hugh
Hi Charlie, Another great video. My layout has full track circuit block and is fully signalled and interlocked using 9 BDL162 and BDL168 train detection and 30+ LocoIO / Locoservo units to control points and signals, as well as a DS64 and DS52 units. Being a retired software engineer, I wrote my own control software suite which includes interlocking, control Panel, LocoNet interface, Automatic Train Control, Automatic Route Setting and Throttles. I have used Digitrax since I moved to DCC, and have had very few problems, mainly with throttles. Keep the videos coming.
Always enjoying your videos. I use the DR4088 LN/CS (LocoNet/ Current Sensing) from digikeijs as mentioned in your video. Since this is a loconet device, you can mix these devices with digitrax ones in your Loconet string. So, also if you are already using digitrax and want to expand, you can use the much cheeper but high quality digikeijs products.
Hi Charlie. This is a great primer on automation. I'm not so interested in automation, but am very interested in current sensing block detection for signals. Thanks for your input.
Oh Charlie what have you done after watching this Mrs Chris and I went out and bought the Firebrand Loco from my local supplier and I’ve just been running her in and ripping out my track and replacing it with a Double Slip. Your Right Charlie this Hobby is addictive especially if your demo the stuff we love. Keep up the Great work
Fascinating Charlie. I loved the bit-by-bit nature of how you explained it all. Block Sections help my garden railway work but I have developed a totally different approach to train control and stayed clear of the DCC and computer combo. There seems to be several similar systems on the market and I was initially tempted by the clever Megapoints control system and the Digitrax units, but wanted to base my control control focus totally differently. I have developed my own DLC (Decentralised Logic Control) system for my railway and have enjoyed the whole development part of the project too. Thanks for another great video, W :)
Hi Charlie, I use a Lenz command station with LDT occupancy feedback sensors. iTrain controls my layout which runs completely automated. I am very pleased with iTrain, it is a pleasure to use, completely reliable and my trains run very smoothly. I also have semaphore and coloured light signals all controlled by iTrain through the command station. I have had the same core setup for ten years. And all of this (apart from a section which runs through my shed) is in my garden in my own narrowish gauge, British outline, G scale. My advice to anyone who wants to start in computer automation is to start with a simple layout, master that and then expand your empire. Charlie, I really enjoy your videos, and although I’m in a different scale and environment I have picked up plenty of tips and ideas from watching your channel. Best Wishes, James
Great video again Charlie... I have a layout with 30 feedbacks distributed over 15 blocks. I had been running Rocrail for some time before I got an iTrain trial license valid for two months in the Spring this year. Two months trying out iTrain was perfect. It made it possible for me to figure out which level of iTrain to purchase. I settled on Plus. Thanks to Bob Fuller's extremely pedagogical video tutorials on youtube it has been enjoyable to install and run iTrain. I use loconet decoders and detectors made by a Swedish maker, MGP, that are very reliable and not expensive at all. A detector for eight blocks is priced at about 15 pounds.
Thank you for this video. The phrase “scenic trains” perfectly describes what I am doing with automation on my layout. Using ESU detection and point control along with iTrain Pro, I run scheduled passenger trains and through freight trains “in the background.” Meanwhile, “in the foreground” I use the ESU CabControl and Shipit computer generated switch lists for the operation of my local freight trains. This setup has served me particularly well during the Pandemic when having friends share in the operation of the layout has not been possible.
Hi Charlie, i didnt catch all the prices and I know i can go back and listen but the usual reason for the price discrepancies is VAT. They have to add on the 20% dreaded VAT. You get it all the time when they show the suggested SRP in Dollars for the Americans and yet we end up paying more for it in Sterling but as they have different VAT rates in America from state to state they never show a price with VAT included. I bet those prices in Argentina were ex VAT as well. Hope this helps and thanks for another amazing video. Really love seeing your railway come along.
@@ChadwickModelRailway ok wow. That is some distaste there. Still a great video. I like the idea of block detection but not sure if I need it but at least I know more now when considering it.
Thanks for another great informative video Charlie, you've answered all my questions and demystified it for me, I'm an IT guy so I now understand how the computer side of it works quite well! I'm planning a small layout but I might provision block detection for the main line so I could automate that and "Play" with the shunting part. The layout is being planned with expansion in mind when I buy a house (Small room!) Thanks again!
Excellent video as always Charlie. Many thanks for all your videos. Learning a lot. System ITrain Pro 5 (upgraded from 4) . Digijekeis DR 5000 and 4088 LN detectors , Tam Valley points (via servos). All connected by Loconet bus. Cables easy to make. Dave.
Another great video Charlie. I am a Digikeijs and iTrain man which I have found to be both cost effective and robust in operation. Whilst I see where you are coming from with the two sections per block approach to achieve accurate stopping, I have found that I can get away with one section per block for stopping a train accurately with iTrain. It does require a detailed understanding of how iTrain blocks can be configured but does save on cost and time once mastered. The Bob Fuller/Iain Morrison videos on iTrain are invaluable here, as they are for understanding iTrain in general and I cannot recommend them highly enough.
Charley, that was by far one of the most informative video on what involved in block detection that explained it in simple terms. I too can't understand the difference in pricing of the software for UK customers, especially if it's delivered electronically as is most software these days. I was also shocked at the cost of the BD168 breakout board. £40 is a lot for a PCB with some terminal blocks. It could sell for £20 and there would still be a health profit in it. One thing for certain, automation on this level isn't cheap ! - Thanks for your transparency in listing the cost involved, and for producing such a great video, with clear demonstrations.
When you said "what can block control do for you" I immediately thought of "The Life of Brian" When John Cleese said "and what did the Romans ever do for you". Brilliant video but a bit to rich for me, superbly explained. Frank
I'm using JMRI, DCC++EX, Arduinos and generic infrared sensors. A steep learning curve but very rewarding. Total cost was less than many single branded units.
I have just watch the video on block detection. An excellent video for the person who is just starting out with DCC A couple of points I think it is worth mentioning. The feedback system you mentioned that Digitrax does not have is called Railcom . And you also don't need to have 2 sensors to each block of track you can use a system of speed related movements to gauge where the loco is and programme the speed reduction from there. I run a Z21 system with a mixture of Digikeijs and Roco products and use Itrains Plus for automation. And have found it most rewarding and FUN. The total cost on this layout is around £800 and climbing. (and that's not including all the locos,wagons, coaches an chips) As you know I love to potter about with electronics and as such have another layout which I am able to switch from one system to another by unscrewing a few wires. I am a the moment setting it up to use Merg block detectors (the Diode voltage drop sort not the current sensing version.) The break down of this system is 1 DCC++EX for a command station. Arduino Mega £13.00 Motor Shield £18.00 Wi-Fi Board £ 5.00 DCC Next for the accessory decoder (a very clever little board) £11.00 Servos for points £1.00 Relays for point frogs £1.50 Block Detection Board £ 2.18 And a signal driver system developed by another Merg member £ 2.00 Total £53.68 This shows the near the top of the spectrum and the DIY at the bottom. I hope this is a little help to those who are contemplating getting into the DCC side of this wonderful hobby.
An interesting comment Bob. However, using Train Controller Bronze or Silver, a second sensor is certainly advised. It’s only with Gold that block length is entered. Regards Charlie.
Hello. I went over to loco detection using Itrain, about 6 months ago. I have found it a useful tool to monitor my loco movements. Took time to wire but worth it. Found having 2 feedbacks on station track gave the stopping smoother.
Marvellous and inspiring, thank you. I'm a programmer by trade and geek by personality so this is all very much up my street. I'm on the process of building a new layout now and am very much focusing on the tech, or planning for it anyway. Likely to go down the Arduino /infrared / current detection / RFID / JMRI route. I love the idea of providing the layout with a little AI, in order to give it the capacity to make decisions on routes and speed based on presence of other trains. This video demonstrates the possibilities in that regard very well, thank you. Just embarking on my second watch in a row 😂.
Hi There Charlie. While I usually watch your clips as you produce them, one or two such as this one slipped by so I've just caught up this morning over a coffee (well actually two large coffees!). With an avionics (Radar) background I get the gubbins part of this however, two friends headed down this path (using Digitrax which I also have) and I have to say it left me a little cold as they both had a number of issues which affected our regular operating sessions while they were overcome. I found this clip very useful in better understanding the physical hardware aspects of what I'd have to say is a fascinating but rather complex aspect of the hobby. So thanks for taking the time to share the findings of your hard yards in this area. Not sure I'll head down this part predominately given the cost at this time, but I'm warmer to the idea than I was two coffees ago! All the best for Christmas, stay safe and keep well, BRgds Brent
Thanks Brent, I’m so pleased that you find the channel interesting. I do understand that Digitrax isn’t everyone’s cup of tea and the manuals are dreadful! Regards Charlie.
Another fascinating video Charlie - thanks. Like yourself I am astounded by the current cost of controller software. Clearly those of the railway modelling fraternity (or sorority in this equal-opportunity world) with deeper pockets than I, no doubt keep these software developers going. You mentioned JMRI, which as you say may not be the easiest to master, nevertheless whilst it may have a steeper learning curve. the effort may be worth it given its free cost. As a group of hobbyists we all have different skills and focusses for what we are prepared to take on - some of us like painting detail, others its modelling buildings, for some its automation, etc. Your focus on off the shelf electronic products, whilst carrying a commensurate price tag (even when bought off second-hand off eBay) illustrates where your focus is, what you are comfortable with doing, and what you are prepared to put hand in pocket for. I'm not suggesting you should change your approach, but like most things in life there are options if one is aware of them. Accordingly, with only moderate soldering skills, it is entirely possible for one to build one's own electronic boards if one has a mind to. I have built 2-channel DCC block current detectors at a cost of ~£3.60 each (I source my own components) but available as a kit of parts for £6.80. One still needs an interface device to monitor the current detectors (kit cost £14.29 for a 16-channel device, though the channels can be used on a mix and match basis for current detectors, spot detectors, relay switching, servo control of semaphore signals or points, or LED lighting) and a computer interface board to link all the interface boards to the computer/JMRI (£10.37 as a kit of parts). Such boards/kits (and many more) are available to members of the Model Electronic Railway Group - MERG - whose website, forum and regional area groups provides a wealth of advice and support to railway modellers prepared to invest in an understanding of such electronics. Please forgive the advertisement, but I feel it important that your subscribers realise that such automation/control aspects of railway modelling don't necessarily come with such a high price tag.
An excellent comments David. I had tried to emphasise that money isn’t everything in block detection was remembering that most people will not have the skills or inclination to build from scratch. Regards Charlie
Thank you Charlie or making tis topic so approahable. Well done. I tripped across the MERG folks about two years ago, and have ordered and built a number of their kits, which are a delight to build, with exhaustive and comprehensive instructions. With a little practice, anyone an do this. While there is not much video available to the public, without becoming a member of MERG, one can get a taste of the possibilities from Rob at Little Wickett on RUclips. The cost of the kits is extraordinarily low for the value, and the knowledge gained along the way is priceless. I'm hooked!
Hi Charlie, Thank you for a very informative video. Certainly a good help to point me in the direction of itrain. Good to know that advice given by dcc train automation. I will certainly be entering the world of block detection. Once again a big thank you. All the best Mark
Thanks for that Charlie. A friend of mine suggested i-Trains was a good way to go when I eventually come out of the age of the dinosaurs and go DCC, so your info has come in rather handy. Amazing how these things escalate, but then I guess in our hobby the initial cost is always the top of a bloody huge iceberg! 🧊 I like the idea of protecting junctions like that. A friend of mine “back n the day” had a rather crude yet clever system on DC using diodes that slowed trains at signals if they were red, and this I suppose is the slightly more sophisticated DCC equivalent of that 🤔 Thanks again mate, great stuff as ever 👍🍻🍀
Hi Charlie, This video popped up just at the right time as I cant get proper answers from the MERG group, so nearly finished the Sheffield Midland Station layout apart from the loop round the back but getting info on Block detection wiring has been a nightmare but I think your video has gone a long way to help as I was unsure about points and D.Slips and D.Crossings plus lots of short lengths of tracks on Entry and Exit to Station, Hardware I used diode back to Back block detection a MERG original design which I made 6 channel which eventually feeds to the DCCEX command station via an I2C Bus, points via PCA9685 servo drivers again back via I2C Bus, I have the Command station and 8 District cutout modules again a member of MERG design but very cheap and they work well, I want to initially use JMRI and like you say that will be fun with the learning curve, then once all that works I will contact James at DCCTrainautomation regarding getting iTrain software, hope i'm still here to do all this ...LOL
Great video again Charlie. After talking to James at DCC Train Automations a few years ago I went down the Digikeijs and iTrain route and it all works great. It's much cheaper than Digitrack. The command station can work with most if not all systems.
Hello Steve hope it all working well if you need and advice or help please let us know. Or if any one needs and help with computer control we are here to help you all.
Great video. Bit of a steep learning curve but if handy with a soldering iron MERG and JMRI is a cost effective route into automation. The member forum is full of useful advice and for me the annual membership has paid for itself multiple times over.
Hi Charlie, excellent as always. I use Digikeijs sensors and interface, with Itrain on the PC. I find them excellent. I had to return one Digikeijs sensor because it failed, but it was replaced without charge. By the way, I live not far from West Camel - if you want to have a look at a (very much in progress) layout and see how Digikeijs/Itrain work, you're welcome. Richard
Thanks Charlie, interesting video as always. The only point you missed is if you have Bi directional running you may wish to have a stopping section at each end of your block. Then your BDL168 goes 1/3 less or just 5.3 blocks each.
Hello Charlie. I have been installing BD using an Ecosdetector connected to my Ecoss. Pretty easy setup. I use Traincontroller Bronze that cost the "world" price of $154USD and the detector block cost about $250 AUD (136 quid). If I need more than 16 blocks (most likely) I will need to purchase an "interface" unit that allows the connection of 4 detector units . No daisy chaining unfortunately
Great video as always, Charlie. Brilliantly informative. I've seen on one of the systems you don't need to have two sensors for each block as long as you have current draw from the last set of wheels in a rake, be it a DBSO, a coach or wagon with a fitted tail lamp or simply a small resistor wired to some wheel pickups, anything that draws current.... Thanks, Bachmann for deciding to make the wheels on your Highlander rake plastic. Really appreciate that... As the locomotive enters a stop block, a station platform for example, it will begin to slow to a crawl speed, rates and speeds customizable in the system settings, like CVs but simpler, and will then stop automatically when the last set of wheels on its rake clears the previous block. No need for a second sensor. You don't even have to tell the system how long the train or length of track is. Seems like a hell of a cost-cutting measure when you consider the price of all the different modules involved. For the life of me I can't remember what system that is (possibly iTrain as I do remember giving that one some serious thought) but maybe someone else can fill in that gap for us. If you're still reading I wonder if you'll partake in a challenge I've set out for myself; I want to fit pickups to a Bachmann / Graham Farish coach, BSK, BG, GUV, etc, and fit a simple decoder inside to operate a lightbar via DCC. Easy up to now, yes? Here's the challenge; I want that one decoder to control the interior lights of an entire rake of seven coaches. This would involve, somehow, passing power from one light bar to the next without having permanent connections between the coaches, so we can mix and match them at will. I've even considered contacting some 3D printer owners to see if they can make some NEM couplings that can house a micro two-pin plug as I haven't seen any couplings with power connections on the market, at least in N Gauge which is what I model. Frankly I can't believe this gap in the market even exists! The idea being that power is picked up via the wheels of our BSK, up to a decoder, in to a lightbar and then down to the couplings and in to the next coach and so on, effectively wiring up a full rake of coaches in series powered by just one. Of course Dapol coaches do come with wheel pickups and lightbar plugs fitted as standard so the process becomes even simpler with those, all we need there are the couplings and to redirect the wiring. I also know that Dapol do in fact have power-transferring couplings fitted to their 142 Pacers, as I have one, so why not something similar that plugs in to an NEM pocket with some contacts for the coaches? It baffles me! Could make for an interesting fiddly project for you! All the best. Mike.
Interesting stuff, and well-presented as ever, Charlie. Right, crawling over. "If you want block detection in DC, you need to switch to DCC." Ahem. My dad and I had block detection on our layout back in the 1980s. Exactly the same principle as you showed, with insulated rail joiners at each end of the block (which we had already, of course, with control DC). If there was something with a circuit (a motor or a lit wagon, or a wagon with resistor across its wheels), it would trip the track detection module, and it'd show as occupied and set the preceding signal to red. The track detection modules were bought as such: they were a PCB with a few components and a relay. I can't remember how much they were, but they weren't cheap even then (although arguably you got more actual components on the circuit board back then) so we only used them in the main station area and in hidden sidings. With regard to the software price variations from country to country, I noticed the manufacturer was somethingorother GmbH - so a German company. It could be something to do with exporting from the EU to the UK, particularly if there's any physical element to the product. I don't suppose model railway software is at the top of the British Trade Secretary's to-do list... It sounds like there's a market for a free or cheap user-friendly interface to JMRI.
Thank you so much does give a good insight into how much automation will cost. It will definitely be a budget consideration if you understand what i mean
Thorough explanation Charlie, sharing makes things user friendly. Although the several suppliers of these appendages seriously have to work their part of user friendliness.
Another great video Charlie. On the subject of US to UK pricing, for years dollars have equated to pounds when buying US sourced software and electronics in the uk. For example $699 in us is sold for £699 in the uk. Do the exchange rate maths that equals approx $936.
Great Video! Thank you! I have the TrainController Software from Freiwald and Hardware from Littfinski . I have two Digital Center. One High Speed Interface for the Blocks and one for the Track and Switch from Tams. I've been working on the system for 7 years.
A very informative introduction to block detection, Charlie. I'm sure many will find it very valuable. Me? I'll just stick with my couple of wires to power the (DC) track and push-rods to control the turnouts...
Outstanding video Charlie, one of your best and certainly in the top 5 greatest one you made. Utilize here all Digitrax systems except decoders, Tsunami only. I wrote my own software running on Windows machine. Hate windows and currently writing software for MAC. Does all functions that $$$$ software can do. You asked several other questions but forgot what they are. Suggestion: Placing in comments your questions might help us old people remember.
another great video Charlie you made it very easy to understand. i use Digitrax and Train Controller v9 silver. I find the Digitrax kit easy to setup and use and the Train Controller takes time to setup but once configure it great, for my layout around my office.
Once again another Great Video I've Just started using Block detection using a Digikeijs DR 5000 connected to 3 DR4088 giving me 48 Blocks and 3 DR4018 giving me 24 turnout controls. I am using iTrain Standard its been a steep learning curve I still don't have full Automation as I have hit a Snag that i cannot sort but i can still use it in manual Control Keep up the great work
@@ChadwickModelRailway Yes I have tried They are very busy and i work 7 days a week so i can't always phone when I'm at home had this week off to sort Layout but can't work out where i'm going wrong. But thanks for the suggestion
Finally managed to dip a toe into this arena, as an experiment I did try to hook up a point to a BDL168 and it's very hard for the detection to pick up the current draw in time. Even crawling at 1 step doesn't yield a detection event! Charlie would you consider doing more video's on this topic.. or even tutorials on basic setup, drawing plans to getting started!
I’m sure if you check out my back catalogue, I have done several videos on blocked detection. However, I do not include my points within blocks. Regards, Charlie.
Well, in depth is a term that comes to mind! 😂 It's something to consider allowing for on my larger layout when the time comes to build that. It looks like the price difference is similar to what some major tech companies do, they ignore exchange rates (eg: iPhones cost $1000 in the US but £1000 over here regardless of the exchange rate). Popping the price into Google it reveals that Bronze costs £159, only 5 "units" different from the US cost. I can't understand why companies do this but it is incredibly frustrating! Certainly another enjoyable watch. All the best, Owen.
Hi Charlie this was a fascinating video. I've started work on a small shunting layout which is planned to grow into a larger exhibition layout and was considering setting it up for block detection. This video has inspired me to take that idea further. The cost of it all is a bit eye-watering but I was looking at the MERG kit as a way of reducing cost. I run an NCE Power cab because my local club in NW Sydney is NCE based, so I'm looking at options that are compatible with this system. I love your presentation style - you manage to make the most daunting subjects very understandable and much less intimidating that they initially appear! I only found your channel about a month ago but I'm hooked. I reckon that I might have caught up with all your prodigious output in about three months time!
Thank you for another great and informative video. I have an ESU and Z21 and want to have a good level of automation and detection, so looks like I will have to have a long talk with DCC automation before splashing out large amounts of money on the automation and computer control.
Mrs Slinger is a secret admirer of you Charlie she sits patiently while I watch your regular postings. Having watched your latest on block detection, she remarked, 'I do not have any idea what he is talking about but he has a nice voice' . She was also surprised that I new such a nice man from the Navy. It must be nice to live in such innocent bliss little does she KNOW.
By the way, you mentioned block detection for DC, there’s always the Megapoints solution, which uses the CAN bus process for mimic panels, points control etc. I actually started there before I got into DCC and parts of my layout are still controlled by Megapoints via a DCC interface.
Hi Charlie. A while ago you convinced me to switch to DCC. Having spent quite a bit of money already I think block detection is something that will need to wait. I need to do some more rewiring anyway to convert from DC to DCC so I’ll bite the bullet and take your advice to incorporate the isolated sections for block detection up front. Looking forward to the next video.
Really interesting and enjoyable vid Charlie. You never cease to amaze me with your well thought out and presented vids. Block detection is a very large subject and you gave a really down to earth view of it which gave good understanding. Thanks..
Thanks for a great video, as ever. However, the costs of your system on my layout (44m of track, 29 points and counting) is truly eye-watering. My approach is NCE throttle, servo motors, Megapoints controllers and block detection, giving at a minimum a decent mimic panel with the scope for much more at a fraction of the cost.
Great comment Alan. Just for the record, the majority of track (but not points) point motors and my controllers, are all second hand. The true retail price would be staggering.
Hi Charlie, I watched your video with much fascination, I have a total DC layout and have block detection that runs my signals,points and some other small things, I use a very simple transistor current detector circuit and never fails, your system seems very expensive to me, being I am not computer savvy, thanks for a great video from down under in Wairoa New Zealand
It's Friday, ..It's 12 o' clock, It's Charlie at Chadwick Time.... for those of us of a certain age will understand the reference. Lol..... Thanks Charlie for another very interesting, entertaining and informative video.
Absolutely love building my layout for automation, Marklin CS3+ , Traincontroller Gold 9 , Marklin S88's for detection and ESU switchpilots for switching points and signals.
I take it with the block editior properties you can set up bi-directional stopping and have three sensor sections in the block to have accurate stopping at either end of the block? The train controller program is expensive but its ease of function probably says its good value at the same time.
Hi Charlie. I am running a small N Gauge Peco track layout measuring 5feet x 2Foot6, but want to watch my trains doing their thing through a busy junction. Using Lenz LZV200 with iTrain (magnificent). Have approx 30 points now, but upper level under construction will take total to 50 points. The MTB MP1 small footprint motors are slow motion, but much cheaper than Tortoise. Looked at your excellent Traincontroller video 12 months ago, but didn’t like Freiwald’s Brexit punishment prices, so after much research chose iTrain, which has turned out to be a winner. This purchase has been enhanced by the excellent RUclips tutorials from Bob Fuller explaining in great detail what the software is capable of and shows exactly how to do it. Will be using Railcom to automatically know which trains are where on the layout. Lenz after sales support has been excellent too. But as you said, all these systems are not cheap when you add it all up. Solution=Don’t add it up. Simples. :-). Keith
I love the geeky wiring/automation stuff. I'm going the Digitrax/JMRI on Raspberry Pi route. I designed the layout in AnyRail and will be importing the diagram into JMRI. Just finished getting the track put down and ran some trains on it to verify no derails. The wiring has been set up for block detection over 3 Digitrax bld168s. My computer is connected to a Digitrax pr3. I'm hoping to get my first automated run in a week or two. Then I'll be setting up signals going through a Digitrax SE8C.
Hi Charlie, another fascinating video. Block detection seems bewildering to me so its nice to get a 'simple' explanation in layman's terms. Amazing what can be done (at a price) and hopefully one day i'll have the time and the money to commit to the hobby. Meantime i can just about get a train to run using the Roco Z21 i bought a year or two ago and an apple ipad for a controller. i thought ipad control would be a way of getting my children interested in the hobby, sadly no success in this just yet.
Hi Charlie - great video. I live in Sydney and use NCE Power Pro ( other brands not so easily available) and Traincontroller Gold ( expensive but at the time was by far the best- other brands appear to be catching up)
Great video as always Charlie. :-) I only have a small layout but I have fitted block detection for the 'can I do it' interest. My shortest block is only 16" so IR sensors are used to stop the loco before the buffers. I am using MERG hardware, for the block detection hooked up to an Arduino running DCC++, another Arduino is hooked up to the servo driven points and the whole layout will be run from JMRI. No problems with what I have art up at the moment, although JMRI does have a steep learning curve. Shout out must go to Rob at Little Wicket Railway for his videos which helped me get started on the Arduinos.
Hi Charlie, Another great video. Another software maybe worthy of a mention is Rocrail, Like jmri is free but it has a slightly friendlier interface feel than jmr, I have started going down this rabbit hole called automation and being into a bit electronics I am using diy block detectors, they operate exactly the same as the digikeijs ones with my Uhlenbrock IB2 using loconet. Thanks again Charlie. James.
Great Video Charlie. PS I use Roco Z21 with TrainController Gold. I use a mixture of Liffinski Datem Technica, Roco and Digikeijs products. Kind Regards Daz
Hi Charlie, well done, I thought you were off into the deep end for a mo. I’m using Digikeijs as my hardware, DR5000, with various Loconet DR4033’s for block detection etc. I then use iTrain on a Windows 10 PC and apart from some of the quirks (what software doesn’t have a few) I’m really pleased with its operation. The bit I’ve never really got my head fully around (which digitax seem to do well) is section power isolation. I’ve a number of power districts run from boosters, but no further isolation than that. To date it’s not been an issue, so I’ve not pondered it further.
All good stuff. I bought Digikeijs kit before I started laying track. (Perhaps I was thinking of investing before Brexit kicked in). Now laid main level, intending to be DCC using Digikeijs block detection and command centre. The upper level will be DC for my old Triang stuff hence no block detection, with an isolated up and down rails between the 2...should be fun! I admit to struggling with point motor control system, and might run that on DC until the rest is working. A 500 page instruction manual....same size as the manual for my Volvo XC90!! Thank goodness I havekept a handful of lever arch binders!!!
Hang on Charlie..just picking my jaw up of the floor!! lol. Seriously though another well presented video. Seems like you need to be a Nasa scientist to know all that. I really enjoy seeing these type of videos even though it will never be for me. All the best.
Well Charlie, you make a good point it's not for everyone, while it all sounds great tho have your train running automatically , I think I'll stick to running the myself. I still want to have a signal system but I want to run the trains myself. But you did make the point to not limit yourself and think ahead. You point about the difference in price is like you said, appalling. Thanks so much for your helpful advice 👍👍👍👍😀
Fascinating video Charlie, it’s amazing what you can do these days on layouts. Block detection isn’t for my layout at the moment due to small size but may be extended in the future. Now I know what’s involved and thanks for explaining it in a easy understandable way.
Great video Charlie. Thanks for taking the time to put it together. Very quick question. I was hoping for transponding. You mentioned it’s not available. When looking at the versions of train control it looks like Silver and Gold include Digitrax transponding. Can you confirm that it really isn’t available in your version. I’m just wondering if there’s updated versions I should watch out for. Thanks Steve,
I know of no one who has got it to work with Digitrax and TC but I shall pin this comment and see what response we get. Regards Charlie
You thank your Patreons... I thank your Patreons! I thank you for your english of foreign language... as my running of trains is DC and basic DCC's bells, lights, and whistles... uh, possible "face-palm" collisions, various "oopsies", and "oh crap, how'd that happen?"
I enjoy your efforts and education... and, of course, your "freelanced editorial statements"... of without, would not be humanly understandable. Digression and explanation is humorous yet important. Please keep up this good work. Standing ovations are well deserved for you.
Continual gratefulness, John British Columbia, Canada
P.S. Certainly, I thank your Patreons!
Thanks for such a heartwarming comment John. Regards Charlie
We use iTrain on our layout using an ESU ECOS, a Z21 and the Dijkeijs detectors. We have added touch screen monitors so have larger buttons to make it easier to use. Works very well, we can run around 11 trains at the same time, still adding details and scenery to the layout but happy to help if anyone is interested in using iTrain and setup etc. There is a really good forum for support with some experienced users who can help you out and the developer of iTrain is always commenting for support. Cost wise yes it can be rather expensive depending on what you want the layout to do, also it has taken a considerable amount of time to setup and get to run smoothly, still have the odd issue but is quite satisfying watching the trains run round on their routes. Great video as always Charlie 👍
I’m so pleased that you found the video interesting AR. But isn’t it an addictive hobby! Regards Charlie
Confession: I jumped from you introducing the BDL168 straight to the costings bit. Then you showed the Instruction Manual ring binder. Yes. Think I’ll stick to DC and buy a few more locos instead. Next video please!
Totally understandable Will.
See you in 2 weeks, regards Charlie
Fascinating stuff Charlie. Costs are eye-watering though I can see the advantages of making your railway more realistic. Always tell how serious a video is by the amount of time you have your glasses on.
Never underestimate your skill to make the most involved subject clear and easy to follow.
Thanks Mark, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting mate. Regards Charlie
Thank you so much for all of your videos. I’ve just completed my bench work (about 85% complete) and I stumbled on your channel a couple days ago and have been watching a lot.
You do a fantastic job at breaking the tasks down so common folk, like me, can understand.
I look forward to watching more!
Thanks MCS, that’s really kind of you to say so. It’s great to have you on board, regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie - I’m running iTrain+Digikeijs DR5000+Digikeijs 4088/4018. Great system, well priced - bought it all from James at DCCtrainautomation whose support is amazing if you’re a customer. By the way the CS on the 4088 stands for current sensing if anyone’s wondering. Cheers Charlie, appreciate all the hard work you put in to your videos, very professional and enjoyable. Julian
Great comment Julian, many thanks.
By the time you add up the cost of all those components, the Viessmann Commander price does not look too bad. All covered straight out of the box and more, except for the block decoders. I've got one new and one second hand. Commander V2 has been delayed for years! So good luck finding it!
Thanks, John, for an interesting look into your world. Regards, Charlie.
I spend all day at my JOB solving other people’s’ computer problems, usually created by themselves. What you presented looks like a lot of after hours WORK! I think my steam powered 1900 - 1913 era narrow gauge Copper mining layout in On30 can live just fine without block control. Nor will signals be required except maybe a semaphore for a station stop. Interesting video and well presented. I will say I did learn a few things. Thanks Charlie.
I’m glad you found the option that interests you. Life can be too complicated! Regards Charlie
Fascinating stuff Charlie and extremely (as always) well presented and edited. it's something I've no intention of including as my layout's too small but the possibilities for a larger layout are incredible. Playing trains has certainly come a long way since I was a lad!
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Dave even though that it’s not quite your cup of tea.
Regards Charlie.
This video couldn't be any better timed if you tried, I'm currently 80% of the way through laying my track so far, and I've been curious what block detection is and what it's capable of. Thank you Charlie for your continuous videos of wisdom, your friendly nature and careful explanation in all your videos. Your guides are second to none. You've earned a subscriber and Patreon for life. Regards Tasmania, Australia, (PS I'm looking forward to when you hit 50k subscribers!)
What a heartwarming comment Kodi.
Regards Charlie
HI Charlie, I am a returning hobbyist who is 13 years into retirement and restarting but just with N scale trains. In my time before I had an outstanding collection of O and Std trains. I never had too complicated an electrical system, so all of these digital approaches are mind boggling for a retired pediatric oncology nurse practitioner. This video has been exceptional! Thank you. RM
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Raymond. Sadly, it’s no longer just two wires. Regards Charlie.
Hi Charlie, great video as always. We have spoken before but for your viewers (and you), I have gone down the Lenz/Train Controller Gold route, using a Lenz LZV100 box and LH100 hand throttle. I have a Lenz USB Interface connected to my PC (which was a bu&&er to set up BTW) all set up to 'help' control my extensive 4 circuit, double level loop covering 18' x 9' in my attic. I was very much influenced by Everard Junction's RUclips videos and original layout. I also have the Lenz equivalents of the BDL-168's (that come in units for 8 sections/blocks LR101 - 10 of at around £80 ea.!) Each of these require 4 smaller units - LS101's to manage pairs of blocks (about £30 ea.). I also have 15 x Lenz LS100 boxes (£85 ea.) for controlling all the points on the layout (each board able to manage up to 6 points). Learning, settin up and using Train Controller Gold was a fairly steep learning curve! Now though, I have the whole thing setup such that all I need to do is press the "1" key on my keyboard to start 2 trains "tail chasing" each other on one loop - similarly 2, 3 & 4 keys and I can have 8 trains running autonomously in seconds!! Obviously, that's for when I "demo" the layout for visiting guests! It's much more often I only set 2 or maybe three of these 'sequences' and manually "play" with another loco or two. Hope this is of interest to you all. Thx.
PS. forgot to mention, I use Heathcote Electronics IRDASC 3-aspect signal cards to sequentially control all main line signals. (£19 ea.!).
A fascinating set up Andy, good on you. Regards Charlie
Wow thats some setup and money spent., sounds it was worth the effort in the end....well done.
Jim.
Charlie, I find all of your videos very entertaining and extremely informative. Please keep them coming.
Thanks Denzel, that’s very kind of you to say so. Regards, Charlie
Another excellent video, Charlie! Three days ago I got my first DCC starter set, a Zepher Express, even though my new layout is a very small switching layout for one loco. My Walthers Plymouth switcher now runs smoothly at very slow crawling speeds. I also did my first DCC conversion, putting a Tsunami2 TSU-1100 and speaker into an old Proto 2000 SW9/1200. Whew! I had to remove the cab interior for the speaker and the extra weight for the decoder, but the results were worth it. I can now have very authentic sounds when I'm in the mood. The technology now is leaps and bounds beyond what was common in the late 90's when I did my last layout build. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience. Cheers from Wisconsin!
What a heartwarming comment Andrew, regards Charlie.
Thank you for this video! Helped me understand and plan for block detection and the addition of train controller!
I’m so pleased you found it useful David. Regards Charlie
I finally got round to viewing this last night and as ever found it very informative. Some years ago I planned an n gauge layout with a couple of hidden storage yards to be controlled with TC which I had trialled on a test track. Due to various house moves it never got built but now having finally settled I have just completed laying track for the first yard and installed the wiring for block detection. I was stunned to hear you speak about the disparity in costs for the UK having not looked at it for a long while, the silver version appears to have gone from around £300 to around £450 and is now causing me to re-think my options. Many thanks for pointing this out before I had gone too far down the line so to speak.
Take a good look at iTrain, it’s the way to go.
I have gone down the route of microchips to control signals. They use simple logic to detect points and trains. I need a signaller to set routes but then you drive each train to the signals. No computer needed once the code has been uploaded to the chips. They can be expanded and have mimic boards etc and the whole thing on my large layout cost less than £200. Down side is I had to learn programming and it can't do train automation but would probably work with DC. Always something for everybody in our hobby, keep up the good work Charlie.
Thanks Mark and I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video.
Hi Charlie. I’m like you a Digitrax man, with TrainController Gold software and a locobuffer USB interface.
I bought all this stuff before Brexit when it was a bit cheaper. I must confess I found Dave Townend’s early McKinlay Railway videos very informative and I copied most of his ideas. The Digitrax and Train Controller manuals are comprehensive if confusing at times and the videos of Rudy at Rudysmodelrailway channel all helped make planning a complex layout more straightforward. I had little understanding of electronics but managed to plan out and construct my system which works really well. My system gives me the ability to run a timetable, change locos easily between trains and have a fully functioning signalling system. Most importantly, I can have several trains running with conflicting routes safely in a way that would be almost impossible to organise manually even with several operators. Great video. Thanks. Hugh
A great comment Hugh, many thanks. Could you tell me in a fresh comment what you use to control your signals?
Hi Charlie. I use Digitrax SE8C units to power the signals but the SE8Cs are controlled by Train Controller. Your original SE8C video helped when I first set them up!
I have accessory signals added to the TC switchboard (the TC inbuilt block signals don’t haveUK logic) and these instruct the SE8C units. The TC accessory signals change aspects using the triggers and conditions feature. The trigger is a combination of the correct route ahead being set up and the occupancy ahead being clear.
Routes are set up ahead of trains when running automatically and thus set the signal. However, I can also set up routes manually using on screen push buttons in each block. I just touch the button of the block the train is in and touch button on the next block I want to move to and the points change and the signal changes to suit the route. This also works for entrance to a group of sidings from a main line.
Signals on sections of plain line, where there are no diverging routes (blocks follow on one after another) are set up as automatic signals normally at green and change to red and then yellow and back to green again using occupancy of the routes ahead to act as triggers to show the correct aspect.
Signals on blocks with various route and block options are set as controlled signals, normally red and only show a proceed aspect when the route is activated and clear. Hope this helps. I hope to do another signalling/switchboard video on my own channel sometime. I am still installing signals but have enough fitted to know it all works. It’s difficult stuff to explain in a few words! Well done again on all your videos. Hugh
Hi Charlie,
Another great video.
My layout has full track circuit block and is fully signalled and interlocked using 9 BDL162 and BDL168 train detection and 30+ LocoIO / Locoservo units to control points and signals, as well as a DS64 and DS52 units.
Being a retired software engineer, I wrote my own control software suite which includes interlocking, control Panel, LocoNet interface, Automatic Train Control, Automatic Route Setting and Throttles.
I have used Digitrax since I moved to DCC, and have had very few problems, mainly with throttles.
Keep the videos coming.
Thanks Dave, that’s very reassuring to know.
Always enjoying your videos. I use the DR4088 LN/CS (LocoNet/ Current Sensing) from digikeijs as mentioned in your video. Since this is a loconet device, you can mix these devices with digitrax ones in your Loconet string. So, also if you are already using digitrax and want to expand, you can use the much cheeper but high quality digikeijs products.
Great comment Rolf. Regards Charlie.
Hi Charlie. This is a great primer on automation. I'm not so interested in automation, but am very interested in current sensing block detection for signals. Thanks for your input.
Thanks Ron, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting.
Oh Charlie what have you done after watching this Mrs Chris and I went out and bought the Firebrand Loco from my local supplier and I’ve just been running her in and ripping out my track and replacing it with a Double Slip.
Your Right Charlie this Hobby is addictive especially if your demo the stuff we love.
Keep up the Great work
What a heartwarming comment Chris. Happy modelling mate.
Agree wire blocks from day one! Also suggest all wires come to the front for easy access and changes.
All down to good planning John. Regards, Charlie.
Fascinating Charlie. I loved the bit-by-bit nature of how you explained it all. Block Sections help my garden railway work but I have developed a totally different approach to train control and stayed clear of the DCC and computer combo. There seems to be several similar systems on the market and I was initially tempted by the clever Megapoints control system and the Digitrax units, but wanted to base my control control focus totally differently. I have developed my own DLC (Decentralised Logic Control) system for my railway and have enjoyed the whole development part of the project too. Thanks for another great video, W :)
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting W. Good luck with your layout, regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I use a Lenz command station with LDT occupancy feedback sensors. iTrain controls my layout which runs completely automated. I am very pleased with iTrain, it is a pleasure to use, completely reliable and my trains run very smoothly. I also have semaphore and coloured light signals all controlled by iTrain through the command station. I have had the same core setup for ten years. And all of this (apart from a section which runs through my shed) is in my garden in my own narrowish gauge, British outline, G scale. My advice to anyone who wants to start in computer automation is to start with a simple layout, master that and then expand your empire.
Charlie, I really enjoy your videos, and although I’m in a different scale and environment I have picked up plenty of tips and ideas from watching your channel.
Best Wishes, James
Thanks James, that’s very kind of you to say so mate. Regards Charlie
Great video again Charlie... I have a layout with 30 feedbacks distributed over 15 blocks. I had been running Rocrail for some time before I got an iTrain trial license valid for two months in the Spring this year. Two months trying out iTrain was perfect. It made it possible for me to figure out which level of iTrain to purchase. I settled on Plus. Thanks to Bob Fuller's extremely pedagogical video tutorials on youtube it has been enjoyable to install and run iTrain.
I use loconet decoders and detectors made by a Swedish maker, MGP, that are very reliable and not expensive at all. A detector for eight blocks is priced at about 15 pounds.
Great info Gorman. Worth some investigation too.
Thank you for this video. The phrase “scenic trains” perfectly describes what I am doing with automation on my layout. Using ESU detection and point control along with iTrain Pro, I run scheduled passenger trains and through freight trains “in the background.” Meanwhile, “in the foreground” I use the ESU CabControl and Shipit computer generated switch lists for the operation of my local freight trains. This setup has served me particularly well during the Pandemic when having friends share in the operation of the layout has not been possible.
Great comment Ted, regards Charlie
Good evening, its 20:05 on a Saturday evening and I've been saving this to watch. Sat down glass of wine time to watch. Take it away Charlie.
I do hope that you enjoyed it Glen.
Hi Charlie, i didnt catch all the prices and I know i can go back and listen but the usual reason for the price discrepancies is VAT. They have to add on the 20% dreaded VAT. You get it all the time when they show the suggested SRP in Dollars for the Americans and yet we end up paying more for it in Sterling but as they have different VAT rates in America from state to state they never show a price with VAT included. I bet those prices in Argentina were ex VAT as well. Hope this helps and thanks for another amazing video. Really love seeing your railway come along.
I’m afraid that you’re mistaken. The price difference was imposed by the designer after Brexit to emphasise his distaste!
@@ChadwickModelRailway ok wow. That is some distaste there. Still a great video. I like the idea of block detection but not sure if I need it but at least I know more now when considering it.
Thanks for another great informative video Charlie, you've answered all my questions and demystified it for me, I'm an IT guy so I now understand how the computer side of it works quite well! I'm planning a small layout but I might provision block detection for the main line so I could automate that and "Play" with the shunting part. The layout is being planned with expansion in mind when I buy a house (Small room!) Thanks again!
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting KW. Regards Charlie.
Excellent video as always Charlie. Many thanks for all your videos. Learning a lot. System ITrain Pro 5 (upgraded from 4) . Digijekeis DR 5000 and 4088 LN detectors , Tam Valley points (via servos). All connected by Loconet bus. Cables easy to make. Dave.
Thanks Dave and I’m pleased that ITrain is working out for you.
Another great video Charlie. I am a Digikeijs and iTrain man which I have found to be both cost effective and robust in operation. Whilst I see where you are coming from with the two sections per block approach to achieve accurate stopping, I have found that I can get away with one section per block for stopping a train accurately with iTrain. It does require a detailed understanding of how iTrain blocks can be configured but does save on cost and time once mastered. The Bob Fuller/Iain Morrison videos on iTrain are invaluable here, as they are for understanding iTrain in general and I cannot recommend them highly enough.
Great comment Chris and I may well give it a try.
Charley, that was by far one of the most informative video on what involved in block detection that explained it in simple terms.
I too can't understand the difference in pricing of the software for UK customers, especially if it's delivered electronically as is most software these days. I was also shocked at the cost of the BD168 breakout board. £40 is a lot for a PCB with some terminal blocks. It could sell for £20 and there would still be a health profit in it. One thing for certain, automation on this level isn't cheap ! - Thanks for your transparency in listing the cost involved, and for producing such a great video, with clear demonstrations.
Thanks Malcolm, I’m so pleased you found it interesting. Regards Charlie
When you said "what can block control do for you" I immediately thought of "The Life of Brian" When John Cleese said "and what did the Romans ever do for you". Brilliant video but a bit to rich for me, superbly explained. Frank
Thanks Frank, you’re too kind.
Hi, Another great video. All you videos are very good and interesting. You always give clear explanations in everything you do.
That’s very kind of you to say so Graham.
Thank you Charlie. I’m considering getting back into model railroading but using a computer control system. Your videos are very helpful 👍
That’s great news MTI, I’m so pleased that you find my channel useful. Regards Charlie
I'm using JMRI, DCC++EX, Arduinos and generic infrared sensors. A steep learning curve but very rewarding. Total cost was less than many single branded units.
Just starting my journey using the same hardware and software with some MERG goodies thrown into the mix as well…
@@caravancapers5091 I found Little Wicket channel very helpful
Great tips guys, many thanks
I have just watch the video on block detection.
An excellent video for the person who is just starting out with DCC
A couple of points I think it is worth mentioning. The feedback system you mentioned that Digitrax does not have is called Railcom . And you also don't need to have 2 sensors to each block of track you can use a system of speed related movements to gauge where the loco is and programme the speed reduction from there.
I run a Z21 system with a mixture of Digikeijs and Roco products and use Itrains Plus for automation. And have found it most rewarding and FUN. The total cost on this layout is around £800 and climbing. (and that's not including all the locos,wagons, coaches an chips)
As you know I love to potter about with electronics and as such have another layout which I am able to switch from one system to another by unscrewing a few wires. I am a the moment setting it up to use Merg block detectors (the Diode voltage drop sort not the current sensing version.)
The break down of this system is
1 DCC++EX for a command station.
Arduino Mega £13.00
Motor Shield £18.00
Wi-Fi Board £ 5.00
DCC Next for the accessory decoder (a very clever little board) £11.00
Servos for points £1.00
Relays for point frogs £1.50
Block Detection Board £ 2.18
And a signal driver system developed by another Merg member £ 2.00
Total £53.68
This shows the near the top of the spectrum and the DIY at the bottom. I hope this is a little help to those who are contemplating getting into the DCC side of this wonderful hobby.
An interesting comment Bob. However, using Train Controller Bronze or Silver, a second sensor is certainly advised. It’s only with Gold that block length is entered. Regards Charlie.
@@ChadwickModelRailway Hi charlie I use ITrain Pro and have setup distance and speed
As ever, a fascinating video, thanks Charlie
Thanks Lee, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Rest assured between videos I am cracking on with the lower levels. Regards Charlie
Yet another brilliant video Charlie, I love all this stuff on block detection as looking online everyone seems to over complicate it.
Thanks Alan, regards Charlie.
Hello. I went over to loco detection using Itrain, about 6 months ago. I have found it a useful tool to monitor my loco movements. Took time to wire but worth it. Found having 2 feedbacks on station track gave the stopping smoother.
Thanks Philip, very useful to know. Regards Charlie
Thanks for the ideas. My plan will be to set up the blocks to work with digikey and go with block control later, as you suggest.
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting HJ.
Marvellous and inspiring, thank you. I'm a programmer by trade and geek by personality so this is all very much up my street. I'm on the process of building a new layout now and am very much focusing on the tech, or planning for it anyway. Likely to go down the Arduino /infrared / current detection / RFID / JMRI route. I love the idea of providing the layout with a little AI, in order to give it the capacity to make decisions on routes and speed based on presence of other trains. This video demonstrates the possibilities in that regard very well, thank you. Just embarking on my second watch in a row 😂.
I’m so pleased that you find the video interesting. Regards Charlie
Love it Charlie.. Well Done. I use a mix of Digikeijs, LDT and I am making some of my own now using ARCOMORA.
Interesting options there mate, thank you, regards Charlie
Great video Charlie I have seen people use light gate switches to a mimic board for block detection very simple but effective
Yes it is a useful alternative. Regards Charlie.
Hi There Charlie. While I usually watch your clips as you produce them, one or two such as this one slipped by so I've just caught up this morning over a coffee (well actually two large coffees!). With an avionics (Radar) background I get the gubbins part of this however, two friends headed down this path (using Digitrax which I also have) and I have to say it left me a little cold as they both had a number of issues which affected our regular operating sessions while they were overcome. I found this clip very useful in better understanding the physical hardware aspects of what I'd have to say is a fascinating but rather complex aspect of the hobby. So thanks for taking the time to share the findings of your hard yards in this area. Not sure I'll head down this part predominately given the cost at this time, but I'm warmer to the idea than I was two coffees ago! All the best for Christmas, stay safe and keep well, BRgds Brent
Thanks Brent, I’m so pleased that you find the channel interesting.
I do understand that Digitrax isn’t everyone’s cup of tea and the manuals are dreadful! Regards Charlie.
Another fascinating video Charlie - thanks.
Like yourself I am astounded by the current cost of controller software. Clearly those of the railway modelling fraternity (or sorority in this equal-opportunity world) with deeper pockets than I, no doubt keep these software developers going. You mentioned JMRI, which as you say may not be the easiest to master, nevertheless whilst it may have a steeper learning curve. the effort may be worth it given its free cost.
As a group of hobbyists we all have different skills and focusses for what we are prepared to take on - some of us like painting detail, others its modelling buildings, for some its automation, etc. Your focus on off the shelf electronic products, whilst carrying a commensurate price tag (even when bought off second-hand off eBay) illustrates where your focus is, what you are comfortable with doing, and what you are prepared to put hand in pocket for.
I'm not suggesting you should change your approach, but like most things in life there are options if one is aware of them. Accordingly, with only moderate soldering skills, it is entirely possible for one to build one's own electronic boards if one has a mind to. I have built 2-channel DCC block current detectors at a cost of ~£3.60 each (I source my own components) but available as a kit of parts for £6.80. One still needs an interface device to monitor the current detectors (kit cost £14.29 for a 16-channel device, though the channels can be used on a mix and match basis for current detectors, spot detectors, relay switching, servo control of semaphore signals or points, or LED lighting) and a computer interface board to link all the interface boards to the computer/JMRI (£10.37 as a kit of parts). Such boards/kits (and many more) are available to members of the Model Electronic Railway Group - MERG - whose website, forum and regional area groups provides a wealth of advice and support to railway modellers prepared to invest in an understanding of such electronics.
Please forgive the advertisement, but I feel it important that your subscribers realise that such automation/control aspects of railway modelling don't necessarily come with such a high price tag.
An excellent comments David. I had tried to emphasise that money isn’t everything in block detection was remembering that most people will not have the skills or inclination to build from scratch. Regards Charlie
Thank you Charlie or making tis topic so approahable. Well done.
I tripped across the MERG folks about two years ago, and have ordered and built a number of their kits, which are a delight to build, with exhaustive and comprehensive instructions. With a little practice, anyone an do this. While there is not much video available to the public, without becoming a member of MERG, one can get a taste of the possibilities from Rob at Little Wickett on RUclips. The cost of the kits is extraordinarily low for the value, and the knowledge gained along the way is priceless. I'm hooked!
Hi Charlie,
Thank you for a very informative video. Certainly a good help to point me in the direction of itrain. Good to know that advice given by dcc train automation. I will certainly be entering the world of block detection. Once again a big thank you.
All the best
Mark
I’m so pleased that you found video useful Mark.
Much to think about when I start building my next layout. Great video.
Thanks Steve I’m so pleased that you found it useful. Regards Charlie
Thanks for that Charlie. A friend of mine suggested i-Trains was a good way to go when I eventually come out of the age of the dinosaurs and go DCC, so your info has come in rather handy. Amazing how these things escalate, but then I guess in our hobby the initial cost is always the top of a bloody huge iceberg! 🧊
I like the idea of protecting junctions like that. A friend of mine “back n the day” had a rather crude yet clever system on DC using diodes that slowed trains at signals if they were red, and this I suppose is the slightly more sophisticated DCC equivalent of that 🤔
Thanks again mate, great stuff as ever 👍🍻🍀
Great comment Tim. I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it.
As soon as you mentioned electronics and wireing I thought I’m glad I have a small layout Charlie and won’t go down that route ❤️❤️❤️❤️👀😂😂👀👀😂
But at least you watched it (hopefully)!
Hi Charlie, This video popped up just at the right time as I cant get proper answers from the MERG group, so nearly finished the Sheffield Midland Station layout apart from the loop round the back but getting info on Block detection wiring has been a nightmare but I think your video has gone a long way to help as I was unsure about points and D.Slips and D.Crossings plus lots of short lengths of tracks on Entry and Exit to Station, Hardware I used diode back to Back block detection a MERG original design which I made 6 channel which eventually feeds to the DCCEX command station via an I2C Bus, points via PCA9685 servo drivers again back via I2C Bus, I have the Command station and 8 District cutout modules again a member of MERG design but very cheap and they work well, I want to initially use JMRI and like you say that will be fun with the learning curve, then once all that works I will contact James at DCCTrainautomation regarding getting iTrain software, hope i'm still here to do all this ...LOL
Sounds like you’re making great progress mate. Good luck with the project, regards Charlie.
Great video again Charlie. After talking to James at DCC Train Automations a few years ago I went down the Digikeijs and iTrain route and it all works great. It's much cheaper than Digitrack. The command station can work with most if not all systems.
Hello Steve hope it all working well if you need and advice or help please let us know. Or if any one needs and help with computer control we are here to help you all.
Thanks Steve, great choice with great support too.
@@DCCtrainautomation Hi James. I will be down to see you soon as you still have my two locos. Been held up in London with work.
@@stevewebb1606 they are all done!
Great video. Bit of a steep learning curve but if handy with a soldering iron MERG and JMRI is a cost effective route into automation. The member forum is full of useful advice and for me the annual membership has paid for itself multiple times over.
That’s great news Jamie. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, excellent as always. I use Digikeijs sensors and interface, with Itrain on the PC. I find them excellent. I had to return one Digikeijs sensor because it failed, but it was replaced without charge.
By the way, I live not far from West Camel - if you want to have a look at a (very much in progress) layout and see how Digikeijs/Itrain work, you're welcome.
Richard
That’s very tempting Richard.
Can you email me at
chadwickmodelrailway @ gmail .com
@@ChadwickModelRailway I would be interested in how you felt the two systems compared / varied.
Thanks Charlie, interesting video as always. The only point you missed is if you have Bi directional running you may wish to have a stopping section at each end of your block. Then your BDL168 goes 1/3 less or just 5.3 blocks each.
Yes a fair point that I missed.
Regards Charlie
Hello Charlie. I have been installing BD using an Ecosdetector connected to my Ecoss. Pretty easy setup. I use Traincontroller Bronze that cost the "world" price of $154USD and the detector block cost about $250 AUD (136 quid). If I need more than 16 blocks (most likely) I will need to purchase an "interface" unit that allows the connection of 4 detector units . No daisy chaining unfortunately
Yes BT, it can be pricey.
Very well laid out instructions.
Thanks Alex, regards Charlie
Great video as always, Charlie. Brilliantly informative.
I've seen on one of the systems you don't need to have two sensors for each block as long as you have current draw from the last set of wheels in a rake, be it a DBSO, a coach or wagon with a fitted tail lamp or simply a small resistor wired to some wheel pickups, anything that draws current.... Thanks, Bachmann for deciding to make the wheels on your Highlander rake plastic. Really appreciate that...
As the locomotive enters a stop block, a station platform for example, it will begin to slow to a crawl speed, rates and speeds customizable in the system settings, like CVs but simpler, and will then stop automatically when the last set of wheels on its rake clears the previous block. No need for a second sensor. You don't even have to tell the system how long the train or length of track is.
Seems like a hell of a cost-cutting measure when you consider the price of all the different modules involved. For the life of me I can't remember what system that is (possibly iTrain as I do remember giving that one some serious thought) but maybe someone else can fill in that gap for us.
If you're still reading I wonder if you'll partake in a challenge I've set out for myself; I want to fit pickups to a Bachmann / Graham Farish coach, BSK, BG, GUV, etc, and fit a simple decoder inside to operate a lightbar via DCC. Easy up to now, yes? Here's the challenge; I want that one decoder to control the interior lights of an entire rake of seven coaches. This would involve, somehow, passing power from one light bar to the next without having permanent connections between the coaches, so we can mix and match them at will. I've even considered contacting some 3D printer owners to see if they can make some NEM couplings that can house a micro two-pin plug as I haven't seen any couplings with power connections on the market, at least in N Gauge which is what I model. Frankly I can't believe this gap in the market even exists! The idea being that power is picked up via the wheels of our BSK, up to a decoder, in to a lightbar and then down to the couplings and in to the next coach and so on, effectively wiring up a full rake of coaches in series powered by just one. Of course Dapol coaches do come with wheel pickups and lightbar plugs fitted as standard so the process becomes even simpler with those, all we need there are the couplings and to redirect the wiring. I also know that Dapol do in fact have power-transferring couplings fitted to their 142 Pacers, as I have one, so why not something similar that plugs in to an NEM pocket with some contacts for the coaches? It baffles me! Could make for an interesting fiddly project for you!
All the best.
Mike.
A great comment Mike. I do understand the problem with coaching stock, especially when they are laid up and the lights are still on!
Interesting stuff, and well-presented as ever, Charlie. Right, crawling over. "If you want block detection in DC, you need to switch to DCC." Ahem. My dad and I had block detection on our layout back in the 1980s. Exactly the same principle as you showed, with insulated rail joiners at each end of the block (which we had already, of course, with control DC). If there was something with a circuit (a motor or a lit wagon, or a wagon with resistor across its wheels), it would trip the track detection module, and it'd show as occupied and set the preceding signal to red. The track detection modules were bought as such: they were a PCB with a few components and a relay. I can't remember how much they were, but they weren't cheap even then (although arguably you got more actual components on the circuit board back then) so we only used them in the main station area and in hidden sidings.
With regard to the software price variations from country to country, I noticed the manufacturer was somethingorother GmbH - so a German company. It could be something to do with exporting from the EU to the UK, particularly if there's any physical element to the product. I don't suppose model railway software is at the top of the British Trade Secretary's to-do list... It sounds like there's a market for a free or cheap user-friendly interface to JMRI.
A great comment Andrew. And rekindled memories too. Regards Charlie.
Thank you so much does give a good insight into how much automation will cost. It will definitely be a budget consideration if you understand what i mean
I’m so pleased that you found the information useful James. Regards Charlie
Thorough explanation Charlie, sharing makes things user friendly.
Although the several suppliers of these appendages seriously have to work their part of user friendliness.
An excellent comment Vincent, so true. Regards Charlie
Another great video Charlie. On the subject of US to UK pricing, for years dollars have equated to pounds when buying US sourced software and electronics in the uk. For example $699 in us is sold for £699 in the uk. Do the exchange rate maths that equals approx $936.
Sorry Steven but I’m afraid that you’re wrong in this case. The price went up through sheer spite, because the UK left the EU with Brexit!
WOW! Another great video, so well explained, but way above my capabilities, as ever look forward to the next one, keep up the good work Charlie
Thanks Simon, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it.
Great Video! Thank you! I have the TrainController Software from Freiwald and Hardware from Littfinski . I have two Digital Center. One High Speed Interface for the Blocks and one for the Track and Switch from Tams. I've been working on the system for 7 years.
Thanks for sharing Christian.
A very informative introduction to block detection, Charlie. I'm sure many will find it very valuable.
Me? I'll just stick with my couple of wires to power the (DC) track and push-rods to control the turnouts...
If it works for you Peter, and keep going with it mate. Regards Charlie.
Outstanding video Charlie, one of your best and certainly in the top 5 greatest one you made. Utilize here all Digitrax systems except decoders, Tsunami only. I wrote my own software running on Windows machine. Hate windows and currently writing software for MAC. Does all functions that $$$$ software can do. You asked several other questions but forgot what they are. Suggestion: Placing in comments your questions might help us old people remember.
Or you could rewatch the video B62c?
@@ChadwickModelRailway LOL
Brilliantly clear Charlie. Thanks
You’re most welcome John.
another great video Charlie you made it very easy to understand. i use Digitrax and Train Controller v9 silver. I find the Digitrax kit easy to setup and use and the Train Controller takes time to setup but once configure it great, for my layout around my office.
It can be a difficult mountain to climb Rob, but as you say once it’s set up it is reasonably stable. Regards Charlie
Once again another Great Video
I've Just started using Block detection using a Digikeijs DR 5000 connected to 3 DR4088 giving me 48 Blocks and 3 DR4018 giving me 24 turnout controls.
I am using iTrain Standard its been a steep learning curve I still don't have full Automation as I have hit a Snag that i cannot sort but i can still use it in manual Control
Keep up the great work
If you’re really stuck Chris, please give James from DCC Train Automation a ring. Tell him that I suggested that you call. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Yes I have tried They are very busy and i work 7 days a week so i can't always phone when I'm at home had this week off to sort Layout but can't work out where i'm going wrong.
But thanks for the suggestion
@@chrislockerby1411 hi - im Julian and using Digikeis 5000 with iTrain. Have you looked at Bob Fullers series of videos on you tube about iTrain?
omg this is so cool, I love the odometer too then you can set up service schedules based on millage covered 😃
It’s a great system LI.
Finally managed to dip a toe into this arena, as an experiment I did try to hook up a point to a BDL168 and it's very hard for the detection to pick up the current draw in time. Even crawling at 1 step doesn't yield a detection event! Charlie would you consider doing more video's on this topic.. or even tutorials on basic setup, drawing plans to getting started!
I’m sure if you check out my back catalogue, I have done several videos on blocked detection. However, I do not include my points within blocks. Regards, Charlie.
Great video, I am using ITrain because it works on a Mac.
Now there’s an excellent point Toots.
Well, in depth is a term that comes to mind! 😂
It's something to consider allowing for on my larger layout when the time comes to build that.
It looks like the price difference is similar to what some major tech companies do, they ignore exchange rates (eg: iPhones cost $1000 in the US but £1000 over here regardless of the exchange rate). Popping the price into Google it reveals that Bronze costs £159, only 5 "units" different from the US cost. I can't understand why companies do this but it is incredibly frustrating!
Certainly another enjoyable watch.
All the best,
Owen.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Owen.
Hi Charlie this was a fascinating video. I've started work on a small shunting layout which is planned to grow into a larger exhibition layout and was considering setting it up for block detection. This video has inspired me to take that idea further. The cost of it all is a bit eye-watering but I was looking at the MERG kit as a way of reducing cost. I run an NCE Power cab because my local club in NW Sydney is NCE based, so I'm looking at options that are compatible with this system. I love your presentation style - you manage to make the most daunting subjects very understandable and much less intimidating that they initially appear! I only found your channel about a month ago but I'm hooked. I reckon that I might have caught up with all your prodigious output in about three months time!
It’s great to have you onboard Jon.
Regards Charlie
Thank you for another great and informative video. I have an ESU and Z21 and want to have a good level of automation and detection, so looks like I will have to have a long talk with DCC automation before splashing out large amounts of money on the automation and computer control.
We are here to help you always happy to help.
I can vouch for them John.
Mrs Slinger is a secret admirer of you Charlie she sits patiently while I watch your regular postings. Having watched your latest on block detection, she remarked, 'I do not have any idea what he is talking about but he has a nice voice' . She was also surprised that I new such a nice man from the Navy. It must be nice to live in such innocent bliss little does she KNOW.
What a truly understanding wife that you have Anthony.
These things don't come down to luck either!
Regards Charlie
By the way, you mentioned block detection for DC, there’s always the Megapoints solution, which uses the CAN bus process for mimic panels, points control etc. I actually started there before I got into DCC and parts of my layout are still controlled by Megapoints via a DCC interface.
A great point Stuart.
Hi Charlie. A while ago you convinced me to switch to DCC. Having spent quite a bit of money already I think block detection is something that will need to wait. I need to do some more rewiring anyway to convert from DC to DCC so I’ll bite the bullet and take your advice to incorporate the isolated sections for block detection up front. Looking forward to the next video.
I’m so pleased that you found it useful David.
Really interesting and enjoyable vid Charlie. You never cease to amaze me with your well thought out and presented vids. Block detection is a very large subject and you gave a really down to earth view of it which gave good understanding. Thanks..
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Will.
Thanks for a great video, as ever. However, the costs of your system on my layout (44m of track, 29 points and counting) is truly eye-watering. My approach is NCE throttle, servo motors, Megapoints controllers and block detection, giving at a minimum a decent mimic panel with the scope for much more at a fraction of the cost.
Great comment Alan. Just for the record, the majority of track (but not points) point motors and my controllers, are all second hand. The true retail price would be staggering.
Hi Charlie, I watched your video with much fascination, I have a total DC layout and have block detection that runs my signals,points and some other small things, I use a very simple transistor current detector circuit and never fails, your system seems very expensive to me, being I am not computer savvy, thanks for a great video from down under in Wairoa New Zealand
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Jed.
It's Friday, ..It's 12 o' clock, It's Charlie at Chadwick Time.... for those of us of a certain age will understand the reference. Lol..... Thanks Charlie for another very interesting, entertaining and informative video.
Thanks Chris, I’m so pleased to have you on-board. Regards Charlie
Absolutely love building my layout for automation, Marklin CS3+ , Traincontroller Gold 9 , Marklin S88's for detection and ESU switchpilots for switching points and signals.
Thanks HK, much appreciated.
MTH DCS O gauge - I glean bits of info that may apply to me and incorporate that info into my layout. Thanks for sharing!
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting mate.
I take it with the block editior properties you can set up bi-directional stopping and have three sensor sections in the block to have accurate stopping at either end of the block? The train controller program is expensive but its ease of function probably says its good value at the same time.
Yes, Brenden, that’s completely correct. Regards, Charlie.
Google a RUclips video called. '23 Block detection on McKinley Railway'.
As usual Charlie a fantastic presentation Block detection is probably not something I’d want going down the line. But each to their own👍
Thanks Kevin, but as you say it’s not for everyone. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie. I am running a small N Gauge Peco track layout measuring 5feet x 2Foot6, but want to watch my trains doing their thing through a busy junction. Using Lenz LZV200 with iTrain (magnificent). Have approx 30 points now, but upper level under construction will take total to 50 points. The MTB MP1 small footprint motors are slow motion, but much cheaper than Tortoise. Looked at your excellent Traincontroller video 12 months ago, but didn’t like Freiwald’s Brexit punishment prices, so after much research chose iTrain, which has turned out to be a winner. This purchase has been enhanced by the excellent RUclips tutorials from Bob Fuller explaining in great detail what the software is capable of and shows exactly how to do it. Will be using Railcom to automatically know which trains are where on the layout. Lenz after sales support has been excellent too. But as you said, all these systems are not cheap when you add it all up. Solution=Don’t add it up. Simples. :-). Keith
A great comment Keith, thank you. I can only agree the prices of these products are incredible. Regards Charlie
I love the geeky wiring/automation stuff. I'm going the Digitrax/JMRI on Raspberry Pi route.
I designed the layout in AnyRail and will be importing the diagram into JMRI.
Just finished getting the track put down and ran some trains on it to verify no derails.
The wiring has been set up for block detection over 3 Digitrax bld168s.
My computer is connected to a Digitrax pr3. I'm hoping to get my first automated run in a week or two.
Then I'll be setting up signals going through a Digitrax SE8C.
Great comment and I’ll be interested in how you get on with the SE8C.
Hi Charlie, another fascinating video. Block detection seems bewildering to me so its nice to get a 'simple' explanation in layman's terms. Amazing what can be done (at a price) and hopefully one day i'll have the time and the money to commit to the hobby. Meantime i can just about get a train to run using the Roco Z21 i bought a year or two ago and an apple ipad for a controller. i thought ipad control would be a way of getting my children interested in the hobby, sadly no success in this just yet.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it William, but trying to get youngsters interested these days, might just be a step too far. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie - great video. I live in Sydney and use NCE Power Pro ( other brands not so easily available) and Traincontroller Gold ( expensive but at the time was by far the best- other brands appear to be catching up)
Thanks for the comment, and good luck with your project. Regards Charlie
Great video as always Charlie. :-)
I only have a small layout but I have fitted block detection for the 'can I do it' interest. My shortest block is only 16" so IR sensors are used to stop the loco before the buffers.
I am using MERG hardware, for the block detection hooked up to an Arduino running DCC++, another Arduino is hooked up to the servo driven points and the whole layout will be run from JMRI.
No problems with what I have art up at the moment, although JMRI does have a steep learning curve.
Shout out must go to Rob at Little Wicket Railway for his videos which helped me get started on the Arduinos.
Great comment Paul, and good luck with your project. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie,
Another great video. Another software maybe worthy of a mention is Rocrail, Like jmri is free but it has a slightly friendlier interface feel than jmr, I have started going down this rabbit hole called automation and being into a bit electronics I am using diy block detectors, they operate exactly the same as the digikeijs ones with my Uhlenbrock IB2 using loconet.
Thanks again Charlie.
James.
Thanks James for highlighting alternatives. Regards Charlie.
Great Video Charlie. PS I use Roco Z21 with TrainController Gold. I use a mixture of Liffinski Datem Technica, Roco and Digikeijs products. Kind Regards Daz
Thanks Daz, most enlightening.
Hi Charlie, well done, I thought you were off into the deep end for a mo. I’m using Digikeijs as my hardware, DR5000, with various Loconet DR4033’s for block detection etc. I then use iTrain on a Windows 10 PC and apart from some of the quirks (what software doesn’t have a few) I’m really pleased with its operation. The bit I’ve never really got my head fully around (which digitax seem to do well) is section power isolation. I’ve a number of power districts run from boosters, but no further isolation than that. To date it’s not been an issue, so I’ve not pondered it further.
I’m pleased you are having some success Stuart. Regards Charlie
All good stuff. I bought Digikeijs kit before I started laying track. (Perhaps I was thinking of investing before Brexit kicked in). Now laid main level, intending to be DCC using Digikeijs block detection and command centre. The upper level will be DC for my old Triang stuff hence no block detection, with an isolated up and down rails between the 2...should be fun! I admit to struggling with point motor control system, and might run that on DC until the rest is working. A 500 page instruction manual....same size as the manual for my Volvo XC90!! Thank goodness I havekept a handful of lever arch binders!!!
Great comment Andy, and I’m sure that your project will bring great rewards. Regards Charlie
Hang on Charlie..just picking my jaw up of the floor!! lol. Seriously though another well presented video. Seems like you need to be a Nasa scientist to know all that. I really enjoy seeing these type of videos even though it will never be for me. All the best.
What a heartwarming comment Tim, regards Charlie
Well Charlie, you make a good point it's not for everyone, while it all sounds great tho have your train running automatically , I think I'll stick to running the myself. I still want to have a signal system but I want to run the trains myself. But you did make the point to not limit yourself and think ahead. You point about the difference in price is like you said, appalling. Thanks so much for your helpful advice 👍👍👍👍😀
Thanks JO, it’s great to have you onside.
Fascinating video Charlie, it’s amazing what you can do these days on layouts. Block detection isn’t for my layout at the moment due to small size but may be extended in the future. Now I know what’s involved and thanks for explaining it in a easy understandable way.
I’m pleased that you found it interesting mate. Regards Charlie