As I am moving closure to my next layout (still about a year/year-and-a-half to actually start), I am more and more convinced that I would like to have a complete computer controlled layout that I can operate in more or less automated fashion. However, as it happens, I have now acquired a mixed range of products - I currently have a second hand Digitrax DCS 50 starter pack that I borrowed from a friend of mine. I know it's well outdated, and I might need a new one when I start building the layout, however, I would like to stay with Digitrax because of its LocoNet capabilities. As for other components acquired so far, I have got 7 Cobalt iP Digital switch machines for my Tillig turnouts, and a complete Peco SmartSwitch set of 4 Peco turnouts along with the PLS 135 SmartSwitch DCC stationary decoders. And this is where the problem is. I think my desire to optimise cost at the moment of these variety of purchases landed me in long term trouble. I understand now that things would have been much simpler if I had stayed with just Digitrax components. However, before I make any further mistakes, I thought it would be best to seek advice - 'later better than never'. So to summarise, these are primary questions: Can I use the above set of mixed brands to build a reliable system AND use computer to control them reliably? If not, then the only component that I am planning to change is the controller, so what would be the best option other than Digitrax? I do plan to use interlocking (a primary reason for me to select Cobalt iP digital), block detection and signalling. So what is my best option going forward? Do I stay with Digitrax (BDL168, SE8C etc.) and use LocoNet? Then how do I control my turnouts, since they will not be running through LocoNet controlled decoders? Any help will be appreciated. Thank you, Kaustav
You have a good start. Doesn't matter if your stationary decoders are on the LocoNet, or the track bus, you would still be able to control them with a DCC computer control program such as JMRI. The only real reason not to have them on the rail power is to ensure they can be operated even if you have a short, say from a derailment. But you can get around that with power districts. There are other makers of LocoNet devices, such as TeamDigital, Tam Valley Depot and RR CirKits, all of which can be easily integrated. So you aren't limited to just Digitrax products. The Zephyr is a good system to start with, and allows one to try out options before investing a lot in a larger command station
Also for LocoNet you can try out the Arduino shields that provide it as well... Lots of options are available! Even DCC++ supports LocoNet on one of the various forks..
Thanks guys, that is definitely helpful. I was looking at various options and bumped upon Hornby eLink and RailMaster combo. Yes, this is very British and is focused on Hornby products, but they say that this has the ability to control other DCC product too. I found a bargain lot at a very reasonable price and bought the stuff to test it out. I will be building a test layout with 4 turnouts to see how things work out. Stay tuned. Kaustav
Unfortunately I can't find the fork but I will keep digging. I do remember it was using the LocoNet shield similar to http://www.scuba.net/wiki/index.php/LocoShield
