INFO: working with non-Digitrax systems

 

If you understand these systems, and you are prepared to put in some effort to investigate and fix issues that arise, you can set up a "private" LocoNet alongside another DCC system. Only attempt this if you understand the issues involved - we can't support or guarantee performance other than offering this general advice.

Normally, a Digitrax system has two buses: the DCC "rail" signal, with the train and point commands; and LocoNet, with commands to the command station and responses from it. The command station also provides power to LocoNet.

It is possible to operate LocoNet without a Digitrax command station. These are the steps you should go through.

  1. You will need to use a PR3 PC interface tp provide LocoNet power, and to connect a PC for debugging. Your PR3 will need to be set up to provide LocoNet power (see the PR3 manual for details). You will also need a PC for testing, but not once the setup is complete.
  2. You can use the DAC20 accessory decoder to control points and other accessories. Program it to "use LocoNet commands" and power it from a 12v separate power source. The DAC20 will then use LocoNet "switch request" messsages to operate its outputs. Program it to generate turnout feedback messages when its outputs change. Now use "Locoanalyse" on your PC to send "switch request" messages (from the LocoNet debug menu): you should be able to change your DAC20 outputs and see the turnout feedback messages.
  3. If you are using the DAC20 is "16 output" mode, be aware that only outputs 1-8 generate turnout feedback messages. The other 8 outputs don't generate them.
  4. You will need a detection mechanism to detect the presence of trains, if you want to use our signalling products. The Digitrax BDL168 can be used with non Digitrax systems in the same way. Follow Digitrax instructions. You can use Locoanalyse to see its Loconet "sensor" messages. Talk to Digitrax if you have problems with this step!
  5. You can add our DTM30 Tower Master if you want a pushbutton & LED control panel for pionts. Follow the manual for settings, but be sure to select "Turnout Feedback" for point cells.
  6. For signalling, you can add a SIGM20 to control your signals. This will use the messages from the BDL168 and the DAC20 to work out point settings. We don't recommend using a BD4 without a Digitrax command station. It may be possible to make it work - but seek help from Digitrax not us!
  7. After power up, the LocoNet devices will not know the positions of the points & sensors. You can use a DTM30 cell or "Locoanalyse" to generate the LocoNet "interrogate" sequence: this asks all devices to report their current output states.

If you understand all of that, and are prepared for some work, it is possible to make it work!

There is some information that helps on the JMRI website.

http://jmri.sourceforge.net/install/LocoNet_for_non_Digitrax_layouts.pdf