Computer Controlled DCC

information about controlling a small DCC S-Gauge display layout with a DOS computer and Quickbasic, operating the train either around a circle or point-to-point.

1. MPEG Videos

2. Introduction

3. Layout Photos

4. Wiring Schematic

5. Additional Comments

6. Copies Of QuickBasic Code

Appendix A. S Helper Tips For Viewing MPEGS

-- Related Pages --

AutoControls.org - G gauge relay & block multi-train systems

3. Layout Photos Operating point-to-point on Tom Robinson's control table at the NMRA National Convention July 2001, St. Louis   Operating in circular mode on Loose Ties modules July 2001, Danville PA Operating in "circular mode", the computer does the approximately the following steps when the train breaks the light beam of the detector: Starts the bell ringing Gradually "ramps" the speed down to a stop Turns the bell off Holds the train stationary for about 20 seconds When ready to start, blows horn twice Gradually "ramps" the speed back up.    Operating point-to-point at the NASG National Convention July 2001, Steamtown (Scranton) PA   Mock-up of a compact display layout The compact layout being loading into a compact car The above photo shows a mock-up of a compact display layout, intended to fit on a single standard 30" wide sales table, and can operate point-to-point at shows. It is built on a 34" wide x 68" long hollow-core door -- using 30" diameter circle Pikemaster track. The layout can be seen operating in the MPEG vidoes referenced above Advantages of this small layout: This complete track fits into a compact car, reducing setup time compared to assembling the track at the show. This layout can fit on a single standard 30" wide sales table. Normal 40-inch diameter "Flyer radius" track requires two tables to make a loop. At some shows, renting 2 tables can be quite expensive.

4. Wiring Schematic

5. Additional Comments There are several reasons for using the computer to operate the train: The person manning the layout can focus his attention on talking to people, while the computer handles the "busywork" of running the train The varying speed-cycle is intended to break the monotony of a train just running endlessly in a circle The idle period gives the motor a rest from constant running Also, having the engine idling and "creeping", with full lights and sound, demonstrates the DCC capability Macs Don't Work Here So Well ? Although I possibly qualify as a "Macintosh Fanatic", this is one application that is maybe better done with PCs, for the following reasons: Lack Of Brainpower -- Nobody in my geographic area - to my knowledge - has interfaced a Mac to send start/stop/speed-up/slow-down type of "train operating" instructions to a North Coast DCC Command Station -- and frankly, I'm not smart enough to figure out how to do it myself. Lack Of Software/Hardware -- With the PC, all you need is the easily-found DOS and Quickbasic programs to control a North Coast (or Wangrow) command station. To use the Macintosh, I believe you need to obtain Virtual PC, which is another $200 or so expense, plus some kind of Basic, plus special cables to connect the Mac to the command station. PCs are cheaper -- You can find old 386 PC laptops in the $25 price range; whereas a Mac laptop, even an old one, is probably going to be significantly more expensive.

6. Copies Of Quickbasic Code Using the below links, you can either view a text copy of the Quickbasic computer code, or download an actual copy of the computer code. Simple Program (RNLOC1.BAS) Text version Quickbasic Program This program is intended to be the simplest possible program to allow you to control the locomotive using the computer. This program allows you to use the computer's up and down arrow keys to control locomotive speed. Enhanced Program (RNLOC24d.BAS) Text version Quickbasic Program This program uses the code from the above program, plus two added modules to automatically "ramp" the train up and down running in a circle or running point to point.

Appendix A. S Helper Service -- Tips For Viewing MPEGS The MPEG movie files can be viewed with Quicktime Player or Windows Media Player (although some of the Windows users cannot seem to play them). Statement Of Problem JamesIngram@ wrote:   > TO: Tom Robinson: > > Tom - > > You and several other people reported not being able to play the MPEG > format movie files I sent on Monday. > > <snip> > Fred Cupp checked this out for me, and reports the following > procedure worked for him: > > 1. From within your email program, save the movie files onto your hard drive. > 2. Start 'Windows Media Player', which he says comes with Windows 95 & 98. > 3. From within Media Player, use the 'File' --> 'Open' sequence to > open the movie file. S-Helper Service - Manufacturer's Recommended Fix For Problems Viewing S-Helper SW-9 MPEG Movie Files Date: Wed, 27 Jun 2001 22:31:41 -0400 From: Robin Thompson <robin@> Subject: Re: Re Playing S-Gauge MPEG Files I Sent Mon 6/25   Dear Jim, They ran just fine on my G-4. But, I think you are giving misleading information.   Step one - Sell virus attracting Windows machine on e-bay. This should be no problem as P.T. Barnum can attest.   Next purchase one of the superior Apple Macintosh computers. An iBook, G-4 or titanium powerbook will do just nicely.   Lastly enjoy the mpegs of the SW-9s and reading about how the viruses are driving windows owners crazy. The money and time you save in reformatting your hard drive and purchasing virus software alone make the Macs a great value.   Don

mac-no shs

This DCC page created 5/17/01, last modified 6/27/2006... by

JamesRobertIngram.com , Williamsport PA, Apache Junction AZ