RR-CirKits - 3
SignalMan, it contains programmable logic blocks to perform
complex operations.
WatchMan
contains eight DCC current-sense occupancy detec-
tors (you supply the coils). This board also has eight auxil-
iary input/output lines that can be used for signals or switch
motors. It contains programmable logic blocks to permit per-
forming complex operations. The optional Fan-out board (FOB)
can expand this board’s input/output capability.
Experience using these boards
Using only a basic package, Jim Duncan (MRH staff) got a sys-
tem up and running with working signals in just a few hours.
The biggest problem Jim encountered was learning how to set
up the NMRA signal aspects in the boards’ internal logic.
Once that was mastered, Jim found creating new “decoder
files” (for the CVs) was quick and easy.
5
5: WatchMan.
Following this initial work, Jim rolled out a new CTC system on
a live steam railroad in Missouri in short order.
Jim did find setting up a signaling system can be intimidating at
first. RR-CirKits has downloadable user manuals for its products
at
that help immensely.
These manuals include examples of setting up signal aspects,
and one manual has an extensive section on setting up an
Absolute Permissive Block (APB) system which requires
no
human intervention. In short, once the boards are pro-
grammed, they no longer need to be connected to a computer
to handle the logic and communications.
The manuals include wiring diagrams and highly-detailed informa-
tion, but it is not necessary to know or understand the technical
aspects in order to successfully program and use these products.
Jim Duncan found RR-CirKits support to be exceptional. You can
pick up the phone and talk directly with Dick Bronson or Doug
Goff for help or troubleshooting.
Prices:
SignalMan C (compression
connector) – $29.95
SignalMan P (10-pin headers)
– $26.95
Tower Man – $33.95
Fan-Out Board A – $12.95
Simple Serial Bus – $34.00
LocoBuffer USB – $65.00
Also see the sidebar on the
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MRH-Jun 2014
