Slow Switch Machine Diode Matrix

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
1

Does anyone remember which issue of Model Railroader had the diagram for diode matrix control of slow motion operated switch machines? (MR has published several schemes for powering momentary contact switch machines in a matrix–that is, push a single button and line up all the turnouts for a given route through an interlocking plant-- but only one that I can think of for slow motion machines.) Thanks for your help. I’ve got to get those old issues organized!

2

assuming your power source can handle throwing all those motors at once the diode control matrix should be the same for either.

3

Thanks for taking the time to reply. For some reason, I remember the article saying that there was somehing different about wiring slow motion machines. But I can’t remember what. Maybe it’s the fact that many slow motion switch machines are stall type. That’s why I’d sure like to see that article again.

4

Try the “Index of Magazines” on this site. I got 2 hits for “diode matrix” but neither article indicated that it was for slow motion switch macines.
…Bob

5

Thanks, Bob. Jim here.

6

Jim,

Welcome from DownUnder.

I think the article you want is in November 2000 MR page 106.

I have it in my home database as ‘Route control - like diode matrix’

Re NDBPRR’s comment there are differences between momentary contact and stall (slow motion machines) re power routing

Stall machine work by reversing polarity. You cannot reverse polarity thru a diode switch as a diode is in effect a one way gateway.

Momentary contact machines in effect fire 2 separate solenoids depending on which button is pushed - there is no reversal of power. A diode matrix depending on how it is connected provides a route from either of the buttons and power is always going one way

regards

John L

7

Thanks so very much, John L. Your description sounds very much like what I’m after.
Now to try to find the exact box in which my November 2000 MR is located (We moved just after that. It may be easier to order a reprint from Kalmbach.) I really appreciate all of you guys taking the time to help out another modeler. You may enjoy this little anecdote about moving: After packing boxes in for a while, one of the movers asked me, “Say! who is this Mister Mags?” My boxes were labeled “MR mags.”