DIY Advanced Model Railroad Signaling Electronics: Sensors, Interactivity, Track Control

Four years in preparation, this book shows the model railroader how to design an automatic signaling and block control system that avoids the usual compromises. It properly responds to single or multiple trains of any length, including stops and reversals, while 'remembering' proper status during system power-down. All types of signals are covered, from simple red/green to 3-color units with 'approach mode'; and with or without self-latching or built-in aspect (red/amber/green) hierarchies. Road-crossing signal operation is properly asymmetrical in response to train direction, and adapts to stopping/reversing. The text encompasses AC and DC powered signals and trains of all gauges, including toy ('high-rail') layouts, and includes both 'common cathode' and 'common anode' configurations for DC powered setups. To ensure realism, any substantive dependence on timers is avoided. A wide variety of homebrew and commercial train-sensors is covered, with instructions on DIY alternatives