LGB and ABC

I've had a look at this, so hope this helps.

I couldn't see a manual for the onboard decoder, but the 55029 Model train Retrofit Sound Decoder defines cv 27 as below.

1649117577406.png

as per:
dccwiki.com

Automatic Brake Control

Automatic Brake Control (ABC) functions as an automated braking system for model trains. It automatically stops the train when it enters a designated section of track, such as a signal, terminus, or junction.
dccwiki.com dccwiki.com

1649119769017.png

It sound like the same thing in a dumbed down, converted to German, then back to English kind of a way.

It's probably likely that a new locos will do what you are looking for, in my reading of it at least.
 
From my what I have gleaned, there are basically 5 different mechanisms for modifying track power to stop a DCC train.

By "modifying track power", I mean that something is applied to the track section independently of the DCC throttle control of the train.

  1. Cutting power to the track section
    • In DCC, this has two big drawbacks:
      • one of the features of DCC is that trains get full track power even when stopped
      • DCC trains often use keep-alive mechanisms to enable operation in the absence of track power
    • Inflexible: Can't apply this in only one direction or use it to slow rather than stop. Also the train just stops - it doesn't slow cleanly to stop
  2. "Brake on DC"
    • Remove the DCC signal and just apply fixed DC. This triggers a response in the train (usually a stop)
    • Seems to be a Marklin thing
    • Keeps power to the train, but removes any signalling until standard DCC is restored
  3. ABC (Automatic Brake Control)
    • Use diodes so that the track voltage becomes asymmetrical between phases
    • Invented by Lenz
    • Variation: "stop" and "slow" modes. In "slow", only every second pulse is asymmetric.
  4. Signal Controlled Speed Influence (HLU)
    • Applies an additional signal to the controlled track to limit throttle.
    • Invented by Zimo
    • Allows for full speed, stop, and 5 "slow" speed options
  5. Overriding the DCC signal
    • A mini command station is attached to the track section. This broadcasts an "all units" speed value that replaces the signal from the command station.
    • Can't be applied in one direction only. Relies on train's own throttle parameters for clean stopping.
Brake on DC / ABC / HLU all rely on the train co-operating with the signalling. Cutting power or overriding the speed signal work for all units, but result in abrupt changes in train behaviour.

ABC and HLU maintain full throttle control of the train. A train in an ABC or HLU controlled section can use decoder functions, reverse, change speed settings (subject to controlled limits), or even choose to override the track signal.

Zimo and ESU decoders claim to implement both ABC (including slow) and HLU. I've been thinking about adding some ABC sections to my layout, but was wondering what would happen if I then added a stock new LGB loco. It looks to me like it will just ignore the ABC signal.

(HLU looks really nice, but seems to require going all-in on an expensive Zimo control solution)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom