Since the devices do not move, stationary decoders can be mounted under the layout, and therefore can be significantly larger than locomotive decoders. Although all active decoders receive commands, only the addressed decoder will respond.Īccessory decoders are used to control devices which are fixed in position, such as turnouts, signals, and level crossings. Locomotive decoders are small electronic circuits fitted inside locomotives to interpret the digital signals and provide individual control. Boosters are connected to the central unit by special cables that relay the digital commands. In most systems booster are available to provide additional track power for larger layouts. Central units also have connections for additional controllers and accessory switch boxes, as well as connections for computer control and interfaces with other digital controllers. Many command stations also incorporate one or more locomotive controllers and a booster unit to generate the power necessary to run locomotives. These digital signals can control all aspects of the model trains and accessories, including signals, turnouts, lighting, level crossings, cranes, turntables, etc.Ĭonstant power is supplied to the track and digital signals are sent which require electronic decoders to be fitted to locomotives and other devices to interpret the commands.Ĭontrollers manage operation of locomotives with buttons for additional model features such as lighting and sound.Ī digital system usually requires a central unit to generate digital address and command signals, these are known as command stations. Control is achieved by sending a digital signal as well as power down the rails or wirelessly. Some digital control systems provide the ability to independently control all aspects of operating a model railway using a minimum of wiring, the rails themselves can be the only wiring required. Analog systems where the speed and the direction of a train is controlled by adjusting the voltage on the track are still popular while they have recently given way to control systems based on computer technology.ĭigital model railway control system basics A number of control systems are available to operate locomotives on model railways. JSTOR ( May 2009) ( Learn how and when to remove this template message)ĭigital model railway control systems are an alternative to control a layout and simplify the wiring and add more flexibility in operations. ![]() Unsourced material may be challenged and removed.įind sources: "Digital model railway control systems" – news Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. This article needs additional citations for verification.
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