Over/under figure 8 layout. Constant speed DC HOW?

[Chris333]

I have a Bachmann Rusty (Thomas HOn30) that I can try, but the layout is a mess right now.
https://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/dwg/dwgs/NARROWGAUGERUSTY.pdf

[Tom L]

I was just about to sent do you a Digitrax DZ123 decoder to try out if this didn't work out.  Street price is around 15-16 bucks. Assuming that the decoder running under DC power still retains its BEMF speed regulation cabability.

I’d be curious about how well/if this works, as well. I have a DC layout controlled with a GML handheld (corded) throttle, which works fine, but I’m always looking for ways to improve slow speed, smooth running.

Also, by running your track power through a decoder in this manner, would you then be able to potentially use a wireless DCC throttle to run a DC layout?

Tom L
Wellington CO

[Chris333]

I'm not gonna try it, but the decoder thing could let you hook up sound as well. For a small layout the direction wouldn't matter much.

Max,
I just painted my track. Later on tonight I will clean the rail heads and give it another spin.

[peteski]

I’d be curious about how well/if this works, as well. I have a DC layout controlled with a GML handheld (corded) throttle, which works fine, but I’m always looking for ways to improve slow speed, smooth running.

Also, by running your track power through a decoder in this manner, would you then be able to potentially use a wireless DCC throttle to run a DC layout?

My idea I proposed was to have the decoder installed in the model and have it simply powered by the DC power on Chris' track.  Decoders have the capability to run under the DC power. If even under DC the BEMF functionality was still working then that woudl provide the constant speed Chris desired.

But if you would like to use a decoder as a DC throttle, that is also possible but not recommended.  You still need a DCC command station and the DCC throttle you mentioned.  You would then address the decoder to whatever address you want the DC operation to be, then attach the decoder's motor outputs to the track on your DC layout.   But this is risky - if you have a short on the layout (which does happen on layouts), you will likely blow up the decoder, since most do not have short circuit protection.

[Tom L]

My idea I proposed was to have the decoder installed in the model and have it simply powered by the DC power on Chris' track.  Decoders have the capability to run under the DC power. If even under DC the BEMF functionality was still working then that woudl provide the constant speed Chris desired.

But if you would like to use a decoder as a DC throttle, that is also possible but not recommended.  You still need a DCC command station and the DCC throttle you mentioned.  You would then address the decoder to whatever address you want the DC operation to be, then attach the decoder's motor outputs to the track on your DC layout.   But this is risky - if you have a short on the layout (which does happen on layouts), you will likely blow up the decoder, since most do not have short circuit protection.

Yeah, makes sense, might as well go all the way into DCC then. I wonder about this

http://bluerailtrains.com/using-a-bluerail-board-to-run-dc-trains-and-lights-on-a-conventional-train-set

I’m not a electronics guy, @peteski, (or anyone) any insights into the blue rail board?

Tom L
Wellington CO

[peteski]

Yeah, makes sense, might as well go all the way into DCC then. I wonder about this

http://bluerailtrains.com/using-a-bluerail-board-to-run-dc-trains-and-lights-on-a-conventional-train-set

I’m not a electronics guy, @peteski, (or anyone) any insights into the blue rail board?

Tom, until you just mentioned it, I have never heard of that device.  Looking at the website it seems that each of those circuits can be used as a Bluetooth-controlled DC throttle.  You have to install the BlueRail  app on your smart device to be able to control the trains.  While Bluetooth is not as robust as WiFi, it is likely adequate for this purpose.

Maybe others have some experience with BlueRail?