Basic automation with Massoth--a couple of questions

Keith RhB

Keith RhB

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Hi all!

On a recent trip to Germany I weakened and brought back a 1210z central station, which will replace my MTSIII unit. Since I already had navigators, I'm ready to go but I'd really like to try some basic automation. I have been reading the various manuals for the feedback module and track contacts but one thing I read confuses me. It says if you are going to use the LGB track contacts (17100 I think) it says you have to short the outputs so there is zero potential at the feedback module. If I understand this correctly, do you just run a wire between the two leads? I can't see how this will still allow it to work...or do I have it wrong?

Another question: Ideally, I would do all the programming in the navigator without having to use a computer, since I just want to run a couple of passing sidings where one train pulls in and stops, waits until the next one comes in (from opposite direction) then it can go etc. I would like to run one of the two trains manually and have the automation run the switches and the other train. Will this work? Are any of you guys doing this?

Thanks very much,
Keith
 
Keith,

The track contact has 3 connectors, the center (marked with a dot) is common and the outer two (marked with arrows). The outer two are connected to the common with a diode allowing the unit to be "direction" sensitive when used in the EPL system. For DCC you need to bridge the outer terminals together and run two wires back to the feedback module, one from the common and one from either the outer connections.
 
Hi All,
Interesting thread, I have just installed Railroad & Co Train Controller on my HO layout in conjunction with Digitrax and it is an amazing automated computer system with almost unlimited potential.
I am looking to do a similar install to my G scale layout and am looking to change my old LGB MTS III and Massoth Digimax Navigator Hybrid with an all Massoth system using 1210Z Central station and existing 2 x Digimax Navigators.
Anyone else going down this path?
If anyone else is looking at computer control please get in touch, Railroad & Co is a great system with lots of ongoing support.
Cheers
Dennis
 
dennis_1 said:
Hi All,
Interesting thread, I have just installed Railroad & Co Train Controller on my HO layout in conjunction with Digitrax and it is an amazing automated computer system with almost unlimited potential.
I am looking to do a similar install to my G scale layout and am looking to change my old LGB MTS III and Massoth Digimax Navigator Hybrid with an all Massoth system using 1210Z Central station and existing 2 x Digimax Navigators.
Anyone else going down this path?
If anyone else is looking at computer control please get in touch, Railroad & Co is a great system with lots of ongoing support.
Cheers
Dennis
Click to expand...

Since starting this thread, a friend in the train club came over with all his Massoth gear, and we updated all his firmware. Then he showed me how the automatic controls worked using just the 1210z, navigator, some 17100 track contacts and the wireless feedback module. All I can say is: "Amazing!" I was surprised how simple it was and it will definitely accomplish everything I want to do with passing sidings, and I won't need to use a computer. Maybe someday I will try computer control with Stellwerk Easy but for now this will do quite a bit. I like the fact that there isn't much wiring needed--especially with the wireless feedback module.
I'll have to look at Railroad & Co--never seen it before. Dennis, do you use an ipad for control or just the stationary PC?

Keith
 
Hi Keith,
I use a PC and a 42" Touch screen monitor


This can be used to run the layout from a full automatic schedule or manually via the screen.
I can also still use the Digitrax command station and also have JMRI Wi-throttle so train control can be accessed via smartphone or tablet

Dennis
 
Hi
I'm also using my Massoth1200Z with Traincontroller from Freiwald (www.freiwald.com) in my G scale layout. The 2 biggest challenges are first a retro signalisation system to tell the software where your different trains are. A Massoth train detection module connected to a feedback module will do the job. The second challenge is the right speed profiles of each loco so your trains will slow down or stop nicely (precision +/- 1 or 2cm)
Regards
Bruno
 
I'm about to install PC control for a mate using Stellwerk 9.0 to drive a Massoth 1200Z.

It will be used to control points and replace his home made analogue panel, where the internal wiring was eaten by ants!

I have done the track diagram on the software and tested it in stand alone, and I will be integrating it to the Massoth system very soon....
 
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