HO Scale layout , computer control

As I wrote before  the new track plan(already layed)  is  arranged  for computer control .
But what is computer control ?
It is a  series off connected  devices from train to the computer    in order  them to communicate to each other .
The computer  generates the commands  which are transfered  through connction dvice to the command station and then  to the rails and finally to the dcc decoder inside the locomotive.The locomotive generates current draw  that  is tracked on the tracks  using the feedback device  which sends  info back to the Command station  which also sends feedback back to the computer.
Finally the computer arranges its  choices according to the feedback and the saved preferences (loco proirity etc)
I chose thse solution  of Lenz electronics  which provides  stable , clear and efficient result .
Moreover not to mention that you need a software to control all this mess.
my choice  , finally , was :

1.command station  : LENZ LZV100
2.computer interface : Li-USB-Eth by Lenz
3.feedback generator : Lenz LR101
4.feedback occupancy module : Lenz LB101
5.switch controller : Octopus III with  Octocoder
6.program : Rocrail

 

Back view  of the Lenz Command station . Comparing with the Roco black box  it  seems more rigid  . far better materials(aluminum) and more expensive result.

 

Front side of a Lenz lzv200 same as the LZV100 I purchased . 

 Here is , in German ,  the  complete lenz diggital system . Not all parts must be used in order to  start over with it .  Eveny part you  add , you also add  another tool for your layout.

   Be prepared that all manuals coming with LENZ  products are in German . If you want the English version  use this link :  LENZ USA .
   Each LR101 feedback generator  can handle up to eight feedback input signals . Each LB101 can  detect up to two isolated rails and generate the signal . So each LR101  can be connected with up four LB101 . The occupancy detector LB101 is connected to the LR101 feedback module ,  the LR101 i sthen connected to the LZV100 . The LZV100 is connected  with the  Li/Usb/Eth module (via the XpressNet cable)  and  the Li/Usb/Eth module is then connected to the PC .

  As described before , for  a pc operated layout you will defenately need  a program . I chose  the ROCRAIL which seemed very easy to understand  and will all the utilities I need .
The webpage  of ROCRAIL is here  .
First read the step-by-step manual very carefully  and then start playing with it .  Of course , it provides a virtual utility with which you can test every change you make .


 

HO Scale layout , Wiring modifications

 Today  I  started to relocate and fix the position of the wires . Nothing must be hanging from the layout so I had to fix the position   , to trip excess wiring , to relocate the route of some wires  and  to secure the screwing of  the wire ends .

 Another view . The job is not finished of course  but now I just feel more confident that  I am  on the correct path .

More test to be  done tomorrow in order to check for short cirquits  and blank spots.

Ho Scale layout , New Planning ... start over again...

 First off all , sorrry forr the mess in the photos !
I had an idea to stop the previous layout and start over again . The main reason  was  that  I bought  the LENZ LZV100 and started plans   for computer control .

 I chose the  Roco geoline  rail series . They needed much modification in order to make  the rails  tighter to each other . After some test I found the way to do it  by removing some part (around 2cm) from the thrown position of every switch).
I also added  in the eend of each shelf square retractable shelves of 80x80cm  where I put R2 curves  in order to be able to have full rail trip  and also   not to have space problems in my workshop.

 Here is the shelf retracted

 Here you may see the  Octopus II switch manager  with Octocoder decoder . Also  , on the far left, you may see the LR101 which generates the feedback for the sensors.

 A full view of the mess....

 Below view with some initial wiring. I plan to change everything  and add notes on each wire .

 Here , I installed the laptop for the computer contol

 A more close view of  the devices described above.

 I have not yet found out the final  rail plan . Due to heavy modification  of the Roco Geoline  rails  , I was not able to make a plan in Anyrail  and then make it on the board .

 Here is the first , left , turn(loop)

 Here  is the right  turn (loop) . The  plan is finally closed.

 Here you may see the right loop retracted in order to  give me access to the entrance.. !

 Loop , bridge and shelf connected.

 Some tests arround . Nothing is final . All rails are not permanently fixed so if anythign goes wrong I can make changes..

 A more dramatic view of the Wehrmacht Loco .

 Here is a more updated  view of the layout shelves below.

To be updated very soon....