Guys
I just want to say thanks for all your help on my booster issue I had a few weeks ago. Now I am at the stage of turnout control. I had always planned on using my computer for everything. But, I want to know which unit is best to use for this type of application. Would like to know of any snarls. Or if it is worth the trouble. I will be connecting a total of 37 turnouts . I am in the works of putting up a schematic of my layout.
Worth it? Only you can decide if the cost is worth it.
How do you plan to run trains, sitting in one spot, or walking around with the train?
If you are going to walk around and follow the train, having to run back to the computer screen to change turnouts will get old pretty qucik.
You CAN have both, some stationary decoders allow local pushbuttons so you cna run things either way, from the computer or right from trackside.
–Randy
I control my turnouts with Digitrax DS-64s. I can control them from the wireless throttle, individually, or control entire routes with a single command.
I also use DS64’s. When properly set up and wired, you can control them from your throttle, from a computer, or from local pushbuttons. The route function built into the DS64 is icing on the cake!
Oh, and controlling turnouts from a computer isn’t so you’d need to run back to where it’s located every time you wanted to throw one. You’d use the computer ability if you’re having operating sessions with a dispatcher, or if you want to take advantage of some of the abilities of software such as JMRI or RR&Co, etc.
For example, I use it to provide access to turnouts and routes from a couple of cheap, 4-inch Android MID’s (I won’t even call them “tablets”). MUCH less expensive than two radio throttles.
Eventual plans call for a larger tablet (7" or 8") mounted near the yard throat with a JMRI panel showing just the yard. Simply tap a track on the tablet to align all the turnouts for that track. A more modern version of the diode matrix! [;)]