DCC ImpulsesColumn - 5
With that short introduction into theworldof optical detec-
tion, itwill beeasy tounderstandwhyDCCblockdetection is
anelegant solution. DCCblockdetection reportswhenever cur-
rent isbeing consumed inside the isolatedblock. That current
canbepoweringadecoder-equipped locomotive,whether it is
movingor not, or lighted cars (passenger or caboose), or cars
with resistorwheelsets. Formoredetails, seemyAugust 2013
column, referencedabove.
SoDCCblockdetection, coupledwith resistorwheelsets and
lighted cars,will veryaccurately tell you that theblock isoccu-
pieduntil thevery last car exits theblock. There isonehitch.
Youneed tomake sure therearenoongoing current loadson
thedetectedbus, like: stationarydecoders, lit buildings, panel
displays, etc.
6: Drawing of a detected track blockwith signals outside
each end. The split in themiddle represents themissing
portion of a longblock. If DCCdetection is used, gapswill
be needed just inside the signals.
6
