Hello,
I was interested in knowing how many of you have block set ups to run more than 1 train on a track?
Also how are doing this with Relays,IR, or Elecetronics?
i was working a relay system and was trying to add a safety in case of a derailment there would no collisions.
Thanks,
Todd
I use relays and timers to run 2 or 3 trains per loop. Generally I wire so only one train on the loop runs at a time because the if all the sound systems are on at once it can produce just too much noise. As it is I have 6 loops running 14 trains plus 3 trolley lines.
I use a block system with 24 volt relays.
Dale Hz
I use my own bizarre system in which I control the positive and negative half-cycles of the AC waveform separately. The locomotives have rectifiers, which allow them to see only the polarity that I select. The transformers have what are called synchronous rectifiers to switch the track between two separate controls every half cycle. I also use a single fixed transformer with Lionel rheostats and simple diode rectifiers for one loop.
I can switch a locomotive to use the full wave, so that it is compatible with conventional operation. I also have rectifiers on my whistles, so that one control can run the train, the other the whistle. I like to use this to play with the sound (of an air whistle) in the way that prototypical engineers do, by modulating the whistle speed. I can also use one control for the train’s lights while the other one runs the locomotive, so that the lights do not go out when the train slows or stops.
If you like and can spend some money MTH has a system called DCS-2 that will control up to 20 trains. A less expensive way is to use insulating track pins and single pole switches to route the main power wire.
After spending all the time and trouble using insulating track pins and single and double pole switches, as I did on a previous HO layout, I hardly recommend using the MTH DCS-2, as Philly mentioned above or the Lionel TMCC system. What ever you choose is much easier than a blocking system. Your options are so much better and both systems can have the engines meet head on within inches of each other. Two train running on the same track? We commonly have three engines running on the same track.
Big Boy is working on a system that direct links to a computer to control the trains with the Lionel TMCC system.
As Blueberry Hill, who recently visited my layout and ran the trains said, “It (TMCC) gives new meaning to running the trains.” [:D]
I recently helped a member here set up a 2 train system using Fastrack and 153IR’s. It consisted of a loop with 2 passing sidings, and the trains running in opposite directions around the loop. This kind of automation is very cool and fairly easy to do.
As for my grand plan that Buck mentioned, I haven’t gotten to the computer part yet. So far I’m just running straight TMCC, but others have proven that it can be done with a computer, so it isn’t just theory.
I have also heard, from a reliable source, that TMCC-2 is very cool and coming soon. It may help simplify train detection for the average user, and make it possible to cut out the need for a computer.
That is the nicest system, I have ever seen. It DOES, give new meaning
to running trains and having fun.
Chuck
[:D][:D][:D][:D] I’m blushing from that nice compliment and he is not even related. BTW Chuck, the rewire is almost done and both SC-2 controllers are working perfect, switching the switches and turning on and off the accessories. Last thing to hook up is the Burning Switch Tower, then the layout expansion can continue.
I have been running three trains per 17 foot loops. Both TMCC and DCS will permit that without having any relays or blocks.