Optimal Reversing loop configuration

Slawman

Deckline
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Hi All,

I am in the process of setting up my reversing loops using two LGB 55085 modules.

The instructions present me with a few options for DCC without going into any detail around why you might chose one method over the other. Short circuit detection, sensor tracks, track sensors.

I am running a Massoth 800z DCC system.

Can someone suggest the optimal setup or perhaps let me know why you might chose one over the other?
 
Hi All,

I am in the process of setting up my reversing loops using two LGB 55085 modules.

The instructions present me with a few options for DCC without going into any detail around why you might chose one method over the other. Short circuit detection, sensor tracks, track sensors.

I am running a Massoth 800z DCC system.

Can someone suggest the optimal setup or perhaps let me know why you might chose one over the other?
You may find this short vid a help, though I laid out a Wye (Triangle to us Brits) the principle is the same. I imagine the way I have set it up with the two LGB Isolting Section it would have been using the Short Circuit Detection method.

 
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The sensor method is usually considered the better method. More fiddly to set up but the switching is done by the sensors. With the short circuit detection you are deliberately creating a short every time you pass - sooner or later, this cannot be an ideal thing.
 
Wot Alan said...
Not kind relying on a 'fault condition' to sort this out...
Especially, if you CS is set to pump out 12Amps! - It will eventually end in tears.

I have had to repair the results! :nod::(
 
Sensors preferred over short circuit detection, as mentioned already above.

Also, make sure you make the loop long enough to contain your longest train completely if you run stock with metal wheels. This is absolutely vital when using sensors, and a very good idea if using short circuit detection (otherwise the reversing unit will have to keep swapping as a wheelset enters or exits the loop)
 
Funny, we have the opposite feeling here in the US. Perhaps since we use a more reliable set of electronics, usually the DCC Specialties autoreverser.

I find the sensors, extra wiring is more fiddley and more maintenance, where we just have 4 wires to the autoreverser and it can be placed right near the insulated joint.

The Massoth/LGB units have not proven to be as reliable, or configurable.

But probably you cannot these units there..

Greg
 
Many thanks lads for the video and the advice. I have implemented the sensor approach and it works flawlessly. I have been fiddling with my railway for years and always put the reversing loop concept into the "to hard" basket. After I set it up I sat there for about an hour marveling at the trains running in one way and out the other, gave my sons and wife quite a laugh! Train nut indeed...:)

Greg your comment came in as I was typing a reply. As a look at systems, approach and layouts in the UK & Europe against the US it is interesting to note the differences (although there are a greater number of similarities). The weather in parts of the US and in particular the summers are a lot harder on outdoor gear, like here in Sydney. Some of the bits sitting outside on my layout will hit 60 to 65 centigrade (149f) in summer for days on end.
 
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