Just wondering if there is a way on a point to point DC track power layout to automatically reverse polarity and drive the train the other way and then upon reaching the other end do the same thing. Basically have auto reversing at each end of a point to point.
Sure thing, Devon - there are a number of ways to do what you describe. The simplest I have seen is described here:
http://www.trainelectronics.com/Reverse_loop_dual_coil_relay/index.htm (see the section titled Simple Auto-reverse Controller )
You can also use a more complex device that slows as it approaches the end of the point-to-point and delays before reversing as described here:
http://www.trainelectronics.com/autoreverse/basic/NEW_unit.htm
Great fun to have such a line on your railroad!
dave
some others:
http://www.rr-concepts.com/products.html
http://www.bakatronics.com/shop/item.aspx?itemid=753
http://www.reindeerpass.com/Split-Jaw-Multi-Stop-Reversing-Unit-Model-200-B-2-amp.aspx
http://www.trainsetsonly.com/page/TSO/PROD/564-542
If I’m not mistaken, Aristo and LGB had an offering as well.
I like the RR-Concepts unit. It’s simple to wire, can use either a diode track section or track magnets to trigger it, and has a slow-down/speed-up built into the circuitry so your train isn’t slamming to a sudden stop and jack-rabbit start. That’s something that some other units lack, and I think having trains realistically slow down and speed up looks so much nicer when you’re watching them. Dallee Electronics also makes components that will do auto-reversing (and a whole bunch of other things.) They’re a bit more complex to wire, and the momentum feature is an extra board, but if you’re looking to get into really complex levels of automation, their stuff can be combined in some pretty extraordinary ways.
Later,
K
I thought you wanted To use uranium to power it
The nice thing about RR-Concepts.com, it is very versitile. It can either program itself to stop at end, use reed relays or use diodes. It can also have multiple stops along the route by using reed relays. I have two on my setup and have no trouble. Love them.
Dave Marconi said:
I thought you wanted To use uranium to power it
That’s still in R&D. The boys in the dungeon of the Sinsley Locomotive Works are working on several innovative designs. One uses a recycled flux capacitor but every time the train reaches 88 MPH they loose it. It just vanishes leaving behind a streak of fire. On the Uranium side of things the main material supplier is having some international issues and the main contact person, a guy by the name of Dennis Rodman, is proving to be flaky and unreliable.
So until a few of these issues can be resolved we are sticking to conventional methods of power.