It seems that the Digitrax SE8C PLUS a computer with the appropriate program are the necessary components for signal use on a layout. Does anyone have any experience using this system? What brand of signals did you use? I would like “plug and play” if possible. I am building a layout circa 1955 using the Norfolk and Western as my prototype. Therefore, a specific style of “target” signals are the most appropriate.
Craig,
Using the SE8C, the detectors,and a computer running JMRI Panel Pro, you can build a very good signal system. IIRC, the N&W was using those PRR signals back then(the PRR had some ownership at the time). I think both Tomar and NJ Int have those signals.
With the above said, you will have a lot of work and expense ahead of you. I have over $500 in my 8 block ABS signals system. The interesting part of using the Digitrax SE8C is that it uses the Loconet for communications to the PC(and you do not need a Digitrax DCC system to use it).
Jim
Jim, Thank you for your advice. I am going to use the SE8C. Luckily, my local hobby shop is having a 20% off everything sale of in stock items through tomorrow. They are normally, 15% below list price, so at 35% off, I am going to take the plunge. We have a 5 years old computer that my wife is no longer using, so I am going to see if that does the trick. I will have to order the signals themselves. Craig
I am also using the SE8C for signals. Along with that, I am using the BDL-168 for block detection, and a DS-64 for some turnouts. (The SE8C operates more turnouts.) You should also have some knowledge of wiring. Knowledge of basic electricity and electronics would be very helpful. Even though Digitrax says Plug-and-Play, it is not necessarily EASY to configure and get working although it is one of the more simpler systems to get going.
The hard part is going to be with the computer program you choose. You can choose a free program (JMRI) and have a long learning period with many questions, or an expensive program (RR & Co.) and get a proven program with a manual. I went with JMRI, but I am a retired electronics technician.
You can start here. This information may be helpful to you.
http://mysite.verizon.net/vzescsbb/HO_MRR/Signals/Signals_getting_started1.html
Mac, How expensive is the RR & Co. program and how do I find it? I am NOT an electronics expert! I am a good learner and my 86 years old father-in-law IS a retired electronics tech. He is not very computer literate and I am only a little better. However, my wife is good with computer technology, so that should help. I like the idea of a manual to help me with the program. Thanks for your time and advice. Happy New Year and Happy Model Railroading. Craig
Start here: http://www.freiwald.com/pages/index.html
The programs start at $130.00 and go to $500.00 plus. I don’t know which version you would need. You will have to read up on that at the site.
If you also look at the Digitrax web site and then signals and detection, they will have links to programs that will work with their systems.
Another option is the SIGM20 Automatic Signal Controller from CML Electronics Limited. It has some signaling logic built in, so depending on how complex you want your logic, you may not need the PC with it.
This is what I use on my layout, the SIGM20 from CML (along with their DAC10 for turnout control). You can program the signal logic to your liking (ie: aspect based on block occupancy or turnout position) using their software. It’s really simple to do too.
The nicest thing about the SIGM20 to me is all of the signal logic you program is stored on the hardware itself. You don’t need a PC with some software running all the time.
I looked at the SIGM20 and then decided it was more cost effective and more versitle to use the SE8C with a computer.
There are many different model signal systems to choose from. It depends on how technical or how simple you want it to be. If you think the Digitrax SE8C is too complex, do an Internet secrch on model signals and see what comes up, then visit the sites and read about them.