Hey guys, I'm working on a design for a new layout. I've come across the digitrax signaling system and a computer control interface. I would like to use both systems on my layout. Now the questions: Can the two systems be used in tandem? What items do I need to run the two systems? What are the costs involved? Is it worth it? What were some the problems expirenced when using either one? What are the advantages and disadvantages of either system? Any help would be great. Thanks in advance, David
Currently, to use the Digitrax Signaling system you must have a computer interface. So, to answer your first question, yes they work together. Don't buy a Digitrax MS100. Go with a LocoBuffer instead. It is made by RR Cirkits. You might want to check the thread below for basicly the same question. http://www.trainboard.com/ultimatebb.php/ubb/get_topic/f/12/t/000430.html To check prices, try http://www.tonystrains.com As a minimum you will need block detection and a signal driver. The block detection is either BDL168 or BD4's connected to a SE8c. The signal driver is the SE8c. This board will drive 32 signal heads plus 8 Tortoise type switch motors. The 'c' indicates that it requires a computer to control the logic. Software needed to intergrate the current system includes products like RR & Co, Winlock, KAM Industries product (name?), and freeware from the LocoNet Hackers Yahoo Group. Is it worth it? Only you can answer that. The Digitrax approach is the lowest cost approach I have found. Notice I didn't say cheap. You could also go with a separate system such as the one made by CTI. They offer detection, turnout control, and signal drivers with a very inexpensive software package. A starter set is only $99 and includes the software and all the hardware needed to get started. Chew on this for a little while and then if you have more questions, post again. Another David.
