these variants is way beyond this column. Suffice it to say, the
technology is out there, if you wish to delve that deeply into
the realm.
In an extreme implementation, for example, the decoder can
track fuel usage and report back fuel level, perhaps necessitat-
ing a fuel stop during an operating session.
On a side note, bi-directional communication is the only way
that you can read back a decoder while programming on the
main, or as Digitrax calls it, Ops Mode.
Each system requires a compatible decoder to send the proper
signals back.
SurroundTraxx
SoundTraxx utilized the Digitrax Transponding system in the ini-
tial design of their SurroundTraxx system
. This system utilizes the loco information from
Transponding decoder to tell it what loco is where. Then the
9
9: SurroundTraxx control box, an example of a use of
block detection and Transponding – photo courtesy of
SoundTraxx.
SurroundTraxx systemmakes the appropriate sounds from the
speaker located near where the loco is running.
So there you have a bit of a quick dip in the pool of block
detection.
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Until next month, I wish you green boards.
DCC Impulses - 8
MRH-Aug 2013
