DAC20: What's new?

The new features are listed here.

 

The DAC20 outputs each control two wires. These can be split into two "on/off" outputs; this allows the unit to control up to 16 on/off functions (this works well for lighting). Lighting outputs can make the lights appear to brighten up and dim down slowly, as a "real" light bulb would.

The DAC20 supports simple programming of logical conditions. These conditions can cause the output to change according to events, or stop the output from changing. These can be used for:

  • Controlling semaphore signals in response to point settings and track occupancy. (The unit can also generate the same signalling message as our SIGM20, to allow mixed semaphore and colour light signals).
  • Controlling crossing gates, when track onto a crossing is occupied by a train.
  • Preventing a "three way" point or single slip from being put into an "illegal" state.

The DAC20 supports enhanced local routes. Local routes can be triggered by local inputs, by DCC accessory commands or by logic conditions. Local routes can trigger points on other accessory deciders, as well as those driven by the same DAC20.

The DAC20 supports several programming options, with the programming track method available as a last resort. Simplified programming options include:

  • Using our PC program "Locoanalyse". settings can be edited on the PC and be saved to a file. They can download to the board through "live" LocoNet.
  • Using a "learn address" mode. By setting a single DCC accessory output, the unit can program the base address and set all outputs for Tortoise or Solenoid point motors.
  • Using "on the main" ops mode programming.
  • On a programming track, for diehard enthusiasts!

The DAC20 has more LocoNet message options for the LocoNet interface. It can generate LocoNet messages - for example sensor messages, point position reporting messages and signal control messages. It can respond to LocoNet messages: for example allowing outputs to be triggered by track occupancy sensor messages. The DAC20 can also report the position of points from the stored state WITHOUT needing feedback microswitches attached to tiebars: so PC programs such as Railroad & Co's "Traincontroller" will know the point positions after a "track power on" command.