does anyone operate their model trains by computer(signaling,block detection,e tc)
i have not as of yet. but i help someone that uses the cmri and my culub has started useing it too.
Rob
I had a layout 10 years ago that used CMRI (Computer Model Railroad Interface). I still have all of the components, though sadly the layout is long gone. I am in the process of building a new layout, and plan to reuse the hardware. Unfortunately, someone else did the original installation, and I now have to learn the entire system from scratch. I wish I had learned it back then. The concept is simple enough the trick, for me at least, is the hardware. I don’t have a lot of experience with electronics, but the possibilities are too cool not to try and figure it out.
The system is simply made up of components that plug together. There are input cards, output cards, and a variety of special function cards that can be installed. The system has recently been updated, and improved. http://www.jlcenterprises.net is the source for all of the components and detailed information on CMRI. Good luck!
Hi,
A friend of mine runs a large HO layout using ZIMO DCC together with the STP software. This allows fully auto operation complete with signalling. One can override the auto to do wayfreight switching or one can run a mixed scheme. Lots of possibilities.
If interested let me know.
BTW this is all off the shelf hardware and software with very detailled instructions on how to make it work!
PS I forgot to mention that the ZIMO/STP combo has a very reliable engine number detection for several years already i.e. the control knows which engine is where at any one time. This is what the NMRA’s bi-dir is catching up to.