So, I've read wiringfordcc.com multiple times about how to wire a reverse loop and really, its not all that hard. My question is: if I'm using DPDT switches (at least temporarily) and I'm using DCC, can I throw the switch while the loco is running or do I have to stop it first? To me, I should stop it first, but an autoreverser or throat controlled relay just relies on the short kicking the polarity switch off, and I've seen video of trains running thru them with optical sensors trigging relays to flip polarity when the train passes a certain point, so it makes me wonder... Thanks in advance for putting up with all my weird questions. T.
You don't need to stop the train as long as the switch is made quickly......remember, the DCC signal is also the power for the loco, so if you don't do it fast, the train will not like it. With sound locos, sometimes the sound will be reset if you switch too slow.
There is nothing inherently wrong with using a DPDT, but will you always be there to remember to throw it, and make sure you are always entering the loop with the polarity correct, too? Modern autoreversers, such as the PSX-AR, are fast, reliable and easy to install. As already noted, the speed of the polarity switching in a DPDT may create “blips” in the train’s performance, since a manual mechanical switch will never be as fast as a solid state optically isolated transistor. The DPDT may be a reasonable option if being used while track planning and “proof of concept” operations are ongoing.
I don't know if you realize this, but there are several varieties of auto reverse modules .. the basic difference is a mechanical relay to a electronic [no moving parts] switch .. the electronic ones are usually a bit more, plus with some of them you can set the 'auto reverse' current needed ..
Thanks for the confirmation. The plan is to get autoreversers eventually. Just gonna use the switches for proving things out. T.
I did the same as you Tom, testing a DC/DCC reverse loop and it all worked out fine. The reverse loop on my layout is used only once per running session, so I'm sticking with old skool toggle switches.
I'm setting up a glorified oval with two reverse loops (one for each direction....) for variety. I haven't gotten into the whole 'running session' stuff yet, and don't know how much switching challenge stuff I want to do. I've planned for a staging yard, small spur/switchback, and the two reverse loops. There are points at which I could replace a track with a turnout and expand, and I've got visions for that as well, but currently they're all delusions of grandeur since I don't have a running loco right now (don't ask) and don't have all the track set down and don't really have the time or capital investment to achieve them....yet. But I'll get there someday. T.
This was my DC/DCC reverse loop test set up. My control panel is complete, but I don't have a table built yet!
