JanW Posted March 1, 2020 Share Posted March 1, 2020 Dear experts, I have a KATO lay-out with two KATO signals, the ones that show green and after the train passed show red and after a few seconds yellow and green again. No further logic. https://res.cloudinary.com/houprk4km/image/upload/c_scale,f_auto,q_auto,w_auto/v1526054665/zwlyn3woxs6a48bidjwb.jpg I have two of these but they won't work on DCC. I am have started to convert my layout to DCC. I will be using Digikeijs controller and I/O (whatever that is called in the DCC world), controlled by iTrain software. Conversion to DCC rendered my Kato signals useless. I will also be needing a few more to improve realism. I am now looking for prototypical correct JR signals that can be connected to the DCC system. They will be hooked up and controlled by iTrain . Is anybody aware of source for N-scale JR signals with working LEDs? I am aware of Greenmax models but these are dummies. I know I could possibly fit them with SMD LEDs but it would be a rather fiddly job I was hoping to avoid. Not sure if it would be easy to convert the KATO signals and wire them up to DCC. I find the Kato model also a bit plasticky and not very refined. I noticed that JR signals are a bit like the Dutch signals, but different nevertheless. I haven't given up on real JR signals yet! Your idea's are welcome!. 2 Link to comment
Madsing Posted March 2, 2020 Share Posted March 2, 2020 I use Tomix signals on my layout. Currently only the three-aspect type, but I am planning to use other models too. I actually only use the mast with the LEDs, not the track with the sensor and the electronics. They are easily detachable, at the bottom there is a 4-pin connector (compatible with 1.27mm pin headers). The pinout of the three-aspect model is easy, common anode on pin 4, then red, green and yellow for the three other pins. This is the schematic of the Tomix signals: TomixSignals.pdf I think that it must be possible to find a compatible standard DCC accessory decoder, ask Digikeijs. I have however made my own based on an Arduino. This works well and the signals on my layout are controlled by Rocrail. 1 Link to comment
JanW Posted March 2, 2020 Author Share Posted March 2, 2020 Thanks a lot for this idea Madsing, an excellent idea! i just ordered a set of dummy signals from Greenmax, just to see if I can fit them with LEDs. I’ll keep your idea as back-up plan. i am sure the Digikeijs status decoder can generate the right signal patterns. First the signals themselves! regards Jan 1 Link to comment
chadbag Posted March 2, 2020 Share Posted March 2, 2020 @JanW Please report back on this. I am interested... Also, we should probably move this to the Electronics / DCC section Link to comment
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