As i am trying to find space to build my layout, i have kind of fallen away from keeping up on DCC++. i wonder how hard it would be to create a simple layout simulator for testing DCC++ on. i may be passable at coding Arduino, but i fall short at computer application programming. I was thinking, if one was to connect an Arduino to DCC++ track power, it could decode the signal, and relay it to a computer simulator to test the various operations of DCC++. now, i am not talking about a full 3D simulator. just something that simulates the various functions, so other people can tell if their DCC++ is functioning correctly, without having to use a layout. Don't get me wrong, i still want to build a full layout, when i can find space (and money). but it would be nice, for testing and diagnostics, to have a simulator. Just an idea... ~Travis
Hi Travis, A month ago I discovered DCC++ and decided it would be great (and not expensive) to operate my future small shunting layout. As I do't have this layout yet, I wanted to simulate it on my MacBook Pro to learn more about dcc++ and -if possible- simulate the whole thing. On the DCC++ home site I found that the DCC++ Controller (running on a PC or Mac) is used to fully automate the entire operation. Although you can download this software, it means you have to completely adjust the program/software/code to your own needs and specifications. I wanted software that can simulate trains running on dcc++ and I know of a program called Rocrail. It is used for actually running trains no matter what size of layout or brand of tracks and locomotives. You can also use it just on your computer alone (with no layout attached) and simulate trains running. For a beginner it is not easy or self-explanatory, but I have it up and running on my MBP with dcc++. I have my Arduino Mega attached and with physically manipulating input-pins I can simulate train detection and I also have my turnouts working with both output pins controlling relais (which are to throw the turnouts) and a DCC stationary decoder. If this is what you mean, than possibly this program Rocrail is an option? Rocrail can be found here: http://wiki.rocrail.net/doku.php
i was thinking more along the lines of testing the hardware. JMRI --> DCC++ --> track power --> arduino DCC++ to computer interface --> layout simulator software this way, as i am coding for DCC++ (creating new features, or bugs, take your pick ), i (and anyone else) can test the changes without using a layout. currently my layout is boxed up due to a lack of space issue. ~Travis
Oké, my mistake. I didn't understand the exact meaning; I thought you wanted to test dcc++ with a software program. But the way you want it (and coding for dcc++) it's another issue. Anyway, good luck.
