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Post by bncascadegreen on Jul 5, 2015 12:36:58 GMT -8
Any one done this? Suggestions on how recommend how?
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Post by downunder on Jul 6, 2015 2:31:55 GMT -8
Regrettably there is rather more to the answer than how do you wire a signal. The answers lie in a multitude of internet searches on the subject. Simplest system for two colour (or two aspect)signals is to use the contacts on switch motors such as the tortoise. More complicated systems use electronics and they sense the traffic approaching the signal and the state of turnouts ahead. Three aspect (three colour) signals require a degree of electronic intelligence in the form of a computer control system such as the Digitrax S8C8. Internet searches will give you a lot of info, but you need to do quite a bit of research to find the system that suits you, and to understand signalling systems. Digitrax is a good place to start, but you probably won't understand it until you have read it a few times and looked into other products to gain a wider understanding. Also do YouTube searches, there are some good examples of signal systems to be found there. In conclusion, it is a great addition to your layout, but it takes effort time and money. John
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Post by canrailfan on Jul 6, 2015 7:31:20 GMT -8
There are many products available to drive the BLMA signals, several are listed on the BLMA webpages for their signals.
A reasonably simple way is using the Circuitron SD-1 Signal driver and their BD-series detectors. These will allow you to set up a very basic 3-colour signal system.
The SD-1 Signal Driver will work with all the BLMA signals (wired common anode). One SD-1 is needed for each signal head. Don't use the SD-3 Signal Driver with the BLMA target signals, this circuit is meant to mix colours in a red/green LED to make a yellow aspect. BLMA target signals have three discrete LEDs, one each for red, yellow and green.
The BD detectors come in three versions, BD-1 for optical detection (photo sensors between the rails), BD-2 for track current detection on DC and small DCC layouts, and BD-3 for track current detection on all DCC layouts.
You could start by installing the SD-1s and using SPST toggle switches to control the signal aspects while you add detectors to automate the system.
Hope this helps.
David
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