Analogue block section control

M

MisterJiff

Registered
Hello
I am planning to get my first G scale line built in the garden this year.
I am used to OO gauge and have used both DC and DCC.
For the garden I would like to build it in about 8 power sections so that the electric train can run round and I will also have an RC steam loco. The sections are to make sure the electric follows at a safe distance and also to allow a second electric when money is available.
What kit is there available in this gauge to allow that? Ideally I would prefer track sensors (infrared etc) rather than magnets so that if someone comes along with their own loco it doesn't matter it hasn't got anything fitted to it.

I've thought about this, I don't want DCC, I don't want the locos blowing whistles or grinding brakes, I just want them to go round the track.

Many thanks for any advice.
 
to my knowledge, you will not find a complete system.
i do all things with blocks ( bi-directional traffic on single track, distancing blocks and whatever else there is) with the LGB - epl system (and/or homemade copies) magnets, reed-contacts, double-throw switches.
there should be no problem to replace magnets and reeds with optical sensors from anti burglary alarms.

if you got too much time on hand, the LGB manual https://kormsen.info/lgb-manual.pdf might be interesting.
 
I support what Korm has said the LGB EPL system is very good and will do what you need. As for the lack if magnets in visiting locomotives, what is wrong with one being stuck on with blue tack for the day. Write down which ones you have done so that you do not forget to recover the magnets at the end if the day. Simple is as simple does and EPL is so much simpler that many of the other options out there.
 
korm kormsen said:
to my knowledge, you will not find a complete system.
i do all things with blocks ( bi-directional traffic on single track, distancing blocks and whatever else there is) with the LGB - epl system (and/or homemade copies) magnets, reed-contacts, double-throw switches.
there should be no problem to replace magnets and reeds with optical sensors from anti burglary alarms.

if you got too much time on hand, the LGB manual https://kormsen.info/lgb-manual.pdf might be interesting.
Click to expand...
Great, thanks for the help and advice
 
While this is way above my pay grade, you mentioned infra-red, so I presume that you're familiar with this site.


In theory, it should be translatable to our larger scale; I don't know if perhaps it would require relays for the intelligent bit to work at a lower voltage than our 18 - 20 DC :think::think:
 
Rhinochugger said:
I don't know if perhaps it would require relays for the intelligent bit to work at a lower voltage than our 18 - 20 DC
Click to expand...
that should be no problem if using with the epl system.

in your link it says:
"SPECIFICATION
Voltage 12 to 16 volts, AC or DC"

and the epl-system works from an 16V AC output, producing half-wave DC.
 
I'm using an arduino for control automation and then micro switches to detect the trains and reed switches and magnets for the point detection... testing is done and just waiting for my neighbour to repair their fence so I lay the track out securely etc

I just cannot push ahead until the fence is made secure !
 
Personal preference, but don't use infra red outside.

My experience is that dappled-shade, or bright sunlight, renders infra-red useless.

There may be systems that can cope with this?

PhilP.
 
there is a guy writing in the northamerican forums, who uses short (like one inch) isolated railpieces.
connecting them to a DC outlet, and the neighbouring rail to the switchmotor or powerswitch.
each metallic wheel that closes the gap - activates the desired action.
i see two disadvantages. the smaller one, each and every car with metallic wheels activates it.
the seldom, but grave problem - if any metallic wheel comes to stop right over that gap, one has a fried DC-motor.
 
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