RCGRS MRT Wiki - User contributions [en]

User talk:EricTimberlake

2026-03-13T01:08:54Z

DErik: Created page with "Eric, Some minor changes: *“Zigbee Network” link (http://zigbeehttps//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zigbee) does not work. *Can you provide more specific links to the download files for the Revolution *What is the “correct” USB adapter? And why is it the “correct” one? *I assume the “Goal” paragraph refers to your goal, not the readers. As you do research, you will add the results to this paragraph (or elsewhere). *The :USB programming adapter” link caused a do..."

Eric,
Some minor changes:
*“Zigbee Network” link (http://zigbeehttps//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zigbee) does not work.
*Can you provide more specific links to the download files for the Revolution
*What is the “correct” USB adapter? And why is it the “correct” one?
*I assume the “Goal” paragraph refers to your goal, not the readers. As you do research, you will add the results to this paragraph (or elsewhere).
*The :USB programming adapter” link caused a download of a “revoprog.zip” file, which my MAC unzipped into “RevoProg.exe” dated 4 Dec, 2016. MACs running MacOs won’t run “.exe” files - they are Windows. Is it possible to get a “.jar” version (like a Java implementation) that will run on any OS? Also, I think people will be a bit cautous about downloading executable files. And it’s confusing to me how I would insert the downloaded adpater into a USB port. (Relates back to what a “correct” USB adapter is?)
*I opened and read part of the “Windows 11” page. The first thing that hit me was:

"'''Note: Windows 11 Installation Assistant doesn’t run on Arm-based PCs; it only works for x64 processors.'''"

But I noticed that you said you were running Windows on an Arm architecture MAC. So I looked at the next link (“Parallels”) and think I see the answer. It will cost $55 to install Parallels (my MAC is Arm-based). Then I can run the Windows apps (e.g., the “RevoProg.exe”) on my MAC. I’ll have to dig into this further. But to run just one app, it’s not very cost effective. I do have a Dell, running Windows. But I hated it too, and it has been sitting - unused - on my desk for almost 2 years now. The battery is probably really dead.
*I didn’t understand the rest of the paragraph - about “… getting the USB to passthrough…”.
*I obviously have not run the “PC Software”. So I don’t know what those LEDs are. I’m guessing they are on the USB Adpater that is connected to the computer through the dongle chord.
*Next I’m guessing the “Programmer Interface” (AKA: The USB Adapter?) will make a Bluetooth or WiFi connection to the desired device. How this automatically happens is a mystery to me, as I haven’t seen any “pairing” operations or WiFi login operations yet. Nor do I see a direct wire connection from the subject device to the “Programmer Interface”. So how is this happening?
*In “Updating the throttle”: It may “break” your throttle (not “brick”)?

So, with all that said, I really appreciate you putting this together and posting it. Hopefully, folks will get a big help from it.

Electronics Basics

2025-12-23T21:05:02Z

DErik:

[[index.php?title=Category:MRT SIG]]
[[index.php?title=Category:Electronics]]
[[index.php?title=Category:Remote Control]]
Article Synopsis<hr>
This article provides some basic information about electronics. It is intended for someone with very little understanding of electronic components. It provides descriptions of them, their usages, and how to work with them.
[[index.php?title=Category:Works In Progress]] Under construction/modification by [[User:DErik|DErik]] ([[User talk:DErik|talk]]) 14:50, 3 January 2024 (PST) 
{{rtoc}}

Electronics is often a mysterious and daunting topic for many people. You know that if you stick a finger in an outlet, you will probably be serverely shocked, if not killed. So you tend to stay away from electronic innards of devices.

Well, that's probably a good thing. But the electronic devices we use in our railroads are mostly very low voltage and current. Low enough that no damage to you is ever likely to happen. In fact, it is more likely the other way around - improper handling of some of the devices will damage the device rather than you. So again, you are hesitant to mess with it for fear of damaging something in the device.

Well, that too is probably a good thing. But sometimes you have something that isn't working properly, and you need to fix it. Or it isn't working exactly the way you want it to. Or you really want or need something that just isn't available.

So, that's what this is all about. What do you need to know to fix something, or to alter something, or to create someting new? This article, and related ones will attempt to answer some of the basic questions you may have about electronics.

=Concepts and Definitions=
As with any subject of study, one must first know what things are. Putting labels (names) on them helps provide a frame of reference for them. So here's a few terms and names you need to know. Explanations of these items will come later.
Some basic electronic concepts and definitions:

==Terms and concepts==
Let's first consider the basic terms used in talking about electricity.
* Current<ref name="current" />:
:What exactly is current? In simple terms it is the flow of electrons or ions through a conductive medium. Simple, right? But one thing that confuses folks is: which way are the electons flowing? Typically, we consider the flow to be from the positive pole of an electrical source to the negative pole. But, to confuse things, the positive pole is actually deficient in electrons (or negatively charged ions), while the negative pole is saturated with them. So in strict physical terms, the flow of elections would be from the negative pole to the positive. Now, since I have confused you, ignore the reality of the situation and just consider that a current is simply the flow itself, and in actual use, the direction makes no difference. It is really the difference in electrical potential that is important. That is ...
* Voltage:
:This is the electrical potential difference between two charged elements. In electronic engineering and research, the volt is defined as one joule per coulomb. But for model railroading, we rarely use joules or coulombs in our parlance, idioms, or vernacular exposition.
* Energy, Power, and Work<ref name="byjus" /><ref name="energyeducation" />:
:Energy and power are not the same, and the distinction is rather subtle. Energy is the ability to do work, or to provide power. Power is the actual performance of work over time; that is, power is the rate of doing work or using energy. For example, energy is the charge present on a battery, and power is the battery's ability to deliver that charge over time to some circuit components. In terms of an equation: power multiplied by the time it is applied to something equals the energy supplied. Energy and work are related in that work is the actual energy used. Work itself isn't present unless some object changes position. (This may seem a bit arbitrary in definition and usage, but is helpful in dealing with the mathematics - something this article is not going to delve into very far). In electronics, the movement of the electrons or ions (current) is necessary to perceive work
:In electronics, power is measured in watts. As an example; the power of a battery is often expressed in kilowatts. You often may see amp hours or milliamp hours on batteries. This is a way or expressing how long the initial charge of the battery will last. The relationship is that amp-hours can be converted to watts by multiplying it by the voltage rating of the battery. For example, as 9 volt battery having a rating of 625 milliamp-hours will have 5.625 watts available.
:To make this a little clearer, let me define work: work is the application of a force on an object through a distance. In electronics, the force is the volt and the item being moved is the electron or ion in the materials of the circuit components.

==Units of measure==
* '''Ohm: The measure of resistance to current flow in a circuit or across a component of a circuit.'''
:*The ohm (resistance) value on a schematic is usually spelled out as “ohms” or annotated with an upper case Greek omega: “Ω”. Since resistance values can be very large, the symbol may be followed with a “k” for kilo-ohms (thousands) or “m” for mega-ohms (millions).
:*In electrical formulas, the letter “R” is used to represent ohms.
* '''Volt: The measure of electromotive force in a circuit.'''
:*The voltage value on a schematic is usually annotated with a “V”.
:*The letter “V”, and sometimes “E” (though I consider this wrong as voltage is not the same as energy), is used in electrical formulas. Some formulas I have seen even use the letter “U”; this is definitely a very infrequent usage and I discourage it.
* '''Ampere: The measure of electrical current through a circuit or component.'''
:*The current (amperage) value on a schematic is usually abbreviated as “amps” or annotated by the letter “A”.
:*The letter “I” is used for current in electrical formulas (we like to keep things a little difficult, but it’s etymology can be traced back to some French historical use).
* '''Farad: The measure of capacitance of an electrical component to hold a voltage differential.'''
:*The capacitance value on a schematic is usually annotated with an “F”. Since farad values are usually very small, it is frequently preceded by an “n” for nano-farads (one billionth or 0.000000001) or “m” micro-farads (one millionth or 0.000001) or a Greek lower case mu “𝛍”. Pico-farads (one thousandth of a nano or 0.000000000001) are also quite common, and that is indicated with a “p”.
:*Electrical formulas involving capacitance use the letter “C” for farads. I will admit this one can get very confusing as well since capacitance formulas are based on voltage and coulombs – which is a measure of “charge” we won’t get into here, but represented by the letter “Q”.
* '''Coulomb: Is the charge that a capacitor with a fixed farad capacitance can attain for a specified voltage.''' This unit of energy is rarely used; I can't think of a single usage for it in our hobby. But I mention it to be complete. It is related to an ampere in that an ampere is the flow of one coulomb per second.
:*A coulomb, if it would ever be present on a schematic, would be identified as "C" or "Q". (I really have no idea why.)
:*A "Q" is also used in formulas involving coulombs, in preference to a "C" to avoid confusion.
* '''Watt: The unit of power consumed or generated by a component.'''
:*The letter "W" is used on a schematic to indicate power.
:*Electrical formulas also use the letter "W" to indicate power. However, I have seen the letter "E" used, but I consider this very incorrect, as watts are not energy.
* KiloWatt Hours: This is a measurment of energy. It is a very useful value for determining the usefulness of a battery because it tells you how many watts the battery can provide over a specified amount of time (typically one hour). (You might also have heard of the Joule, which is also a measurement of energy, but infrequently used for our purposes.)
:*The value has no real purpose in a schematic; but if it were to appear, it would probably be designated as "kWhr".
:*The same would be true for formulas: "kWhr" for the kilowatt hour.

How are these things measured?
* The resistance of an element is always measured without applying any external voltage to the component. The meter used to measure the resistance will provide the power.
* To measure voltage, there must be some external power supplied; the meter used to measure the voltage will not supply that power. The meter must also be connected in parallel with the circuit or component to be measured.
* To measure amperage, the meter must be connected in series in a circuit.
* Measuring farad units is rarely needed. And there is no easily available device to measure a component to get that value. Hence, it is written on the component itself, or on a data sheet for the component, along with the maximum voltage that can be applied to the component, and that is all that is needed to build a circuit that includes a capacitor.
==Components==
* Resistor: A component expressly designed to resist the flow of electrons through it. The higher valued a resistor is, the fewer amps will pass through it. Values of resistors are encoded on the resistor with a standard color scheme.
* Capacitor: A component expressly designed to allow a voltage difference (potential) between its two poles to be built up by an external source, to hold that charge when not connected to anything, and to release the accumulated charge when conditions in the circuit change. You might not think it, but a battery might be considered to be a capacitor in some contexts; especially a rechargable battery. Capacitors may be polarized or not, and may be fixed value or variable. See the Linquip web site article that describes various types and uses of capacitors<ref>[https://www.linquip.com/blog/types-of-capacitors-all-you-need-to-know/#:~:text=There%20are%20two%20major%20types,trimming%20for%20the%20variable%20group. Capacitor types and uses]</ref>.
* Inductor: A component that generates a magnetic field around itself when a current is passed through it. Often used as a trigger switch.
* Transformer: A device that converts the voltage of one AC circuit to another voltage in another circuit. The two circuits are not physically connected. They are connected by an electromagnetic field generated by one circuit and used to induce a current in the other circuit.

==Formulas==
First of all, why do you need to know any of these formulas? The answer is that in order to build a circuit, or repair an existing one, you need to know what value rating a component should be to properly work in the circuit. If you can find a circuit diagram for what you want to build or repair, then you should be able to get the values from the diagram. But if you don't have the diagram, or are building a new circuit, you will have to do some calculations. Of course, you will also have to do some measuring, with a mulitmeter, to get some of the values for components in an existing circuit. In other cases, like for a new circuit, you will need the data or specification sheets that are related to the components you will need, or be able to read the values printed on the components. Many of these formulas can be found on Wikipedia. I also found a consolidated reference on a ''BYJU's Learning'' web page<ref name="byjusformulas" /> and on "The Engineering ToolBox" web site<ref name="engtools" />.
* Resistance (R), voltage (V), and current (I) are pretty easy and all related to each other. The following three formulas should demonstrate that relationship (Ohn's Law):
**voltage is current times resistance: <math>V = I * R</math>
**resistance is current divided by voltage: <math>R = {I \over V}</math>
**current is resitance divided by voltage: <math>I = {R \over V}</math>
:When working on a circuit, all you need to know is two of these values to calculate the third.

* Farads can be calculated from coulombs and voltage, but this is rarely needed. Rather, coulombs (the measure of charge on a capacitor) are calculated based on farads and voltage. And the farad value of a capacitor should be printed on the capacitor, along with the maximum voltage that the capacitor can handle. It will be the farad value that is needed when calculating things like time delay for a circuit. The ElectronicsTutorials web site has a good article on capacitors and the calculations of capacitance (farads) and charge (coulombs)<ref>[https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/capacitor/cap_4.html Capacitance and Charge]</ref>. But, again for completeness, the formula for calculating farads from coulombs and voltage is:
**farad is coulomb divided by voltage: <math>C = {Q \over V}</math>
:For calculation of time needed to fully charge a capacitor, let me summarize the discussion found in the ElectronicsTutorial RC Charging Circuit web page<ref>[https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/rc/rc_1.html RC Charging Circuit]</ref>. There is a time delay involved in charging and discharging a capacitor. The time needed is dependent on the capacitance (in farads, "C") of the capacitor and the resistance of the remaining part of the circuit in which the capacitor is placed. The "time constant", designated as the letter "T", is calculated as:
:*time constant for charging a capacitor: <math>T = R * C</math>
:During this time, a capacitor will charge up to about 63% of its fully capacity. The actual time to charge the capacitor to its "full" capacity is about 5 times the time constant, reaching 98% in about 4 time constants.

* Watts are calculated as the voltage across a component times the square of the current through the component. That is:
:* watts are calculated as voltage times current squared: <math>W = V * I ^ 2</math>
:If you really wanted to convert joules to watts, the formula is:
:*one watt is one joule applied for one second: <math>W = J / s</math>

=References and Sources=
<references>
<ref name="current">[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_current Wikipedia article on electric current]</ref>
<ref name="byjus">[https://byjus.com/physics/work-energy-power/#:~:text=Work%2C%20Energy%20and%20Power%20are,done%20per%20unit%20of%20time. Description of work, energy, and power and how they are related by ''BYJU'S Learning'']</ref>
<ref name="energyeducation">[https://energyeducation.ca/encyclopedia/Energy_vs_power#:~:text=Energy%20and%20power%20are%20closely,energy%20is%20moved%2C%20or%20used. ''Energy Education'' web site has a good discussion of energy versus power]</ref>
<ref name="byjusformulas">[https://byjus.com/electrical-formulas/ Electronic formulas provided by ''BYJU'S Learning'']</ref>
<ref name="engtools">[https://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/electrical-formulas-d_455.html Electrical formulas provided by ''The Engineering ToolBox'']</ref>
</references>
<references/>
=Authors and Contributors=
*Author and editor: Don Erikstrup ([[User:DErik|DErik]] ([[User talk:DErik|talk]]) January 2024)
*Others: Please comment on this using the “discussion” tab above or send an email to [mailto:MRT-SIG@RCGRS.com?Subject=MRT-SIG:%20Structures&Body=Put%20your%20comments%20here. MRT SIG] . And contribute additional information here and in other articles.

MOD SIG

2025-11-18T01:04:16Z

DErik:

Article Synopsis<hr>
This describes the RCGRS MOD SIG layout. It has a diagram of the entire layout. Some discussion regarding the way the tables were constructed and prepared for laying of track, the pros and cons of of some of the layout options. Description of material. Discussion of scenery. And discussion of future modifications.
[[Category:MRT SIG]]
[[Category:MOD SIG]]
[[Category:Works In Progress]] Under construction/modification by [[User:DErik|DErik]] ([[User talk:DErik|talk]]) 16:10, 17 November 2025 (PST) 
{{rtoc}}

==General Description==
The primary design for the tables themselves is the creation of Ev Helm, John Stephenson, and Dave Stratton. They put in a lot of time with various options on size, materials, how tables were to be put together with each other.

The "final" layout consists of 36 tables. They are made from aluminum, hand-built by volunteers. The basic construction was to take an aluminum sheet 80" x 48", reinforce the edges with square 1" x 1" aluminum tubes, with additional bracing across the width of the tables, all underneath of course. Aluminum legs were cut from square 1" x 1" tubing as well. The legs are removeable, fitting into 1" x 1" "brackets" under the table. The tables are connected together with angle brackets that are bolted to the ends of adjoining tables, with corner brackets where needed.
==Track Configuration Design==
The MOD SIG group discussed various options with the tables, to include how many tables would actually be needed, how they were to be arranged with each other, how the track was to be layed out, and other ancillary considerations. Some of the special concerns included spacing between tracks (especially curves) to accommodate when large or long cars were passing each other, distance from the edge such that mishaps could be minimized or avoided (especially realizing this layout would be on display with small children close to the tables), the need for a rail yard or something similar to allow setting up a consist without interferring with ongoing actions on the layout, the need to be able to walk around the whole layout and reach trains anywhere on it (especially for steam trains), the desire to have places open for scenery and buildings, and the need/desire to have an "interesting" layout (not just a train going round-and-round).

This resulted in some strange configurations. For example, in the diagram presented below, note the tracks drawn in red. These were intended to be used for "operation challenges", specifically, doing rail yard type activities to change train consists in a confined and challenging area. Another was to avoid having track cross over the edge of a table, especially curved track. (This wasn't always possible.) Another was to have an area where the public could get up close and view the trains and operations closely. Another was to incorporate the lift bridge the club has, and to incorporate a replacement bridge that folks could easily move out of the way to walk from inside/outside to the other side of the layout.

==The Layout Diagram==
The following is a set of screen shots of the layout as drawn using a computer CAD program. A caveat on this is that the pictures are obviously not to scale; but dimension information is included in the diagrams so you don't have to guess too much how big it is.

The full layout is:

[[File:MOD SIG Layout AsBuilt 2025-10-11.png|500px|caption]]

The tables themselves have additional information (dimensions) on them. Here they are in a tabular format that lays it out similar to what it would be on display. Each of the tables may be clicked on to download a PNG image file or to open it in a separate browser window for better viewing.

{|
|-
| [[File:MT-11c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-12c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-13.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-14.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-15.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-16.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-17.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-18.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-19c.png|50px|caption]]
| [[File:MT-20c.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-10.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| [[File:MT-21.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-09.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-35c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" |

[[File:MT-34.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" |

[[File:MT-33.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-32c.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-22.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-08.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-36c.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-31c.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-23.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-07.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| style="text-align:center;" | Bridge
|
|
| style="text-align:center;" | Bridge
|
|
| [[File:MT-24.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-06.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-01.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-30.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-25.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-05c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-04c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-03c.png|50px|caption]]
| [[File:MT-02c.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-29c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-28c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-27c.png|50px|caption]]
| [[File:MT-26c.png|50px|caption]]
|}

Category:MOD SIG

2025-11-18T00:59:13Z

DErik:

This category includes articles related to the RCGRS Modular Layout Special Interest Group (MOD SIG). It attempts to answer questions such as:

:* How was this layout designed?
:* What materials were used?
:* What is its overall purpose?

[mailto:MRT-SIG@RCGRS.com?Subject=MRT-SIG:%20MOD%20SIG&Body=Put%20your%20request%20for%20info%20here. Ask a question or suggest an article to put here]

To get your page to show up here, include the string <big><pre>
[[Category:MOD SIG]] 
</pre></big> on a separate line near the top of your article.
[[Category:MRT Topics]]

Category:MOD SIG

2025-11-18T00:54:48Z

DErik: Created page with "This category includes articles related to the RCGRS Modular Layout Special Interest Group (MOD SIG). It attempts to answer questions such as: :* How was this layout designed? :* What materials were used? :* What is its overall purpose? [mailto:MRT-SIG@RCGRS.com?Subject=MRT-SIG:%20Structures&Body=Put%20your%20request%20for%20info%20here. Ask a question or suggest an article to put here] To get your page to show up here, include the string <big><pre> Category:MOD S..."

This category includes articles related to the RCGRS Modular Layout Special Interest Group (MOD SIG). It attempts to answer questions such as:

:* How was this layout designed?
:* What materials were used?
:* What is its overall purpose?

[mailto:MRT-SIG@RCGRS.com?Subject=MRT-SIG:%20Structures&Body=Put%20your%20request%20for%20info%20here. Ask a question or suggest an article to put here]

To get your page to show up here, include the string

<big><pre>
[[Category:MOD SIG]] 
</pre></big>

on a separate line near the top of your article.

MOD SIG

2025-11-18T00:24:24Z

DErik:

[[Category:MRT SIG]]
[[Category:MOD SIG]]
Article Synopsis<hr>
This describes the RCGRS MOD SIG layout. It has a diagram of the entire layout. Some discussion regarding the way the tables were constructed and prepared for laying of track, the pros and cons of of some of the layout options. Description of material. Discussion of scenery. And discussion of future modifications.
{{rtoc}}
[[Category:Works In Progress]] Under construction/modification by [[User:DErik|DErik]] ([[User talk:DErik|talk]]) 16:10, 17 November 2025 (PST) 

==General Description==
The primary design for the tables themselves is the creation of Ev Helm, John Stephenson, and Dave Stratton. They put in a lot of time with various options on size, materials, how tables were to be put together with each other.

The "final" layout consists of 36 tables. They are made from aluminum, hand-built by volunteers. The basic construction was to take an aluminum sheet 80" x 48", reinforce the edges with square 1" x 1" aluminum tubes, with additional bracing across the width of the tables, all underneath of course. Aluminum legs were cut from square 1" x 1" tubing as well. The legs are removeable, fitting into 1" x 1" "brackets" under the table. The tables are connected together with angle brackets that are bolted to the ends of adjoining tables, with corner brackets where needed.
==Track Configuration Design==
The MOD SIG group discussed various options with the tables, to include how many tables would actually be needed, how they were to be arranged with each other, how the track was to be layed out, and other ancillary considerations. Some of the special concerns included spacing between tracks (especially curves) to accommodate when large or long cars were passing each other, distance from the edge such that mishaps could be minimized or avoided (especially realizing this layout would be on display with small children close to the tables), the need for a rail yard or something similar to allow setting up a consist without interferring with ongoing actions on the layout, the need to be able to walk around the whole layout and reach trains anywhere on it (especially for steam trains), the desire to have places open for scenery and buildings, and the need/desire to have an "interesting" layout (not just a train going round-and-round).

This resulted in some strange configurations. For example, in the diagram presented below, note the tracks drawn in red. These were intended to be used for "operation challenges", specifically, doing rail yard type activities to change train consists in a confined and challenging area. Another was to avoid having track cross over the edge of a table, especially curved track. (This wasn't always possible.) Another was to have an area where the public could get up close and view the trains and operations closely. Another was to incorporate the lift bridge the club has, and to incorporate a replacement bridge that folks could easily move out of the way to walk from inside/outside to the other side of the layout.

==The Layout Diagram==
The following is a set of screen shots of the layout as drawn using a computer CAD program. A caveat on this is that the pictures are obviously not to scale; but dimension information is included in the diagrams so you don't have to guess too much how big it is.

The full layout is:

[[File:MOD SIG Layout AsBuilt 2025-10-11.png|500px|caption]]

The tables themselves have additional information (dimensions) on them. Here they are in a tabular format that lays it out similar to what it would be on display. Each of the tables may be clicked on to download a PNG image file or to open it in a separate browser window for better viewing.

{|
|-
| [[File:MT-11c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-12c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-13.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-14.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-15.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-16.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-17.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-18.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-19c.png|50px|caption]]
| [[File:MT-20c.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-10.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| [[File:MT-21.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-09.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-35c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" |

[[File:MT-34.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" |

[[File:MT-33.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-32c.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-22.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-08.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-36c.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-31c.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-23.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-07.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| style="text-align:center;" | Bridge
|
|
| style="text-align:center;" | Bridge
|
|
| [[File:MT-24.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-06.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-01.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-30.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-25.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-05c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-04c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-03c.png|50px|caption]]
| [[File:MT-02c.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-29c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-28c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-27c.png|50px|caption]]
| [[File:MT-26c.png|50px|caption]]
|}

MOD SIG

2025-11-18T00:10:31Z

DErik: Created page with "Category:MRT SIG Category:MOD SIG Article Synopsis<hr> This describes the RCGRS MOD SIG layout. It has a diagram of the entire layout. Some discussion regarding the way the tables were constructed and prepared for laying of track, the pros and cons of of some of the layout options. Description of material. Discussion of scenery. And discussion of future modifications. {{rtoc}} Category:Works In Progress <span style="color..."

[[Category:MRT SIG]]
[[Category:MOD SIG]]
Article Synopsis<hr>
This describes the RCGRS MOD SIG layout. It has a diagram of the entire layout. Some discussion regarding the way the tables were constructed and prepared for laying of track, the pros and cons of of some of the layout options. Description of material. Discussion of scenery. And discussion of future modifications.
{{rtoc}}
[[Category:Works In Progress]] Under construction/modification by [[User:DErik|DErik]] ([[User talk:DErik|talk]]) 16:10, 17 November 2025 (PST) 

==General Description==
The primary design for the tables themselves is the creation of Ev Helm, John Stephenson, and Dave Stratton. They put in a lot of time with various options on size, materials, how tables were to be put together with each other.

The "final" layout consists of 36 tables. They are made from aluminum, hand-built by volunteers. The basic construction was to take an aluminum sheet 80" x 48", reinforce the edges with square 1" x 1" aluminum tubes, with additional bracing across the width of the tables, all underneath of course. Aluminum legs were cut from square 1" x 1" tubing as well. The legs are removeable, fitting into 1" x 1" "brackets" under the table. The tables are connected together with angle brackets that are bolted to the ends of adjoining tables, with corner brackets where needed.
==Track Configuration Design==
The MOD SIG group discussed various options with the tables, to include how many tables would actually be needed, how they were to be arranged with each other, how the track was to be layed out, and other ancillary considerations. Some of the special concerns included spacing between tracks (especially curves) to accommodate when large or long cars were passing each other, distance from the edge such that mishaps could be minimized or avoided (especially realizing this layout would be on display with small children close the tables), the need for a rail yard or something similar to allow setting up a consist without interferring with ongoing actions on the layout, the need to be able to walk around the whole layout and reach trains anywhere on it (especially for steam trains), the desire to have places open for scenery and buildings, and the need/desire to have an "interesting" layout (not just a train going round-and-round).

This resulted in some strange configurations. For example, in the diagram presented below, note the tracks drawn in red. These were intended to be used for "operation challenges", specifically, doing rail yard type activities to changes train consists in a confined and challenging area. Another was to avoid having track cross over the edge of a table, especially curved track. (This wasn't always possible.) Another was to have an area where the public could get up close and view the trains and operations closely. Another was to incorporate the lift bridge the club has, and to incorporate a replacement bridge that folks could easily move out of the way to walk from inside/outside to the other side of the layout.

==The Layout Diagram==
The following is a set of screen shots of the layout as drawn using a computer CAD program. A caveat on this is that the pictures are obviously not to scale; but dimension information is included in the diagrams so you don't have to guess to much how big it is.

The full layout is:

[[File:MOD SIG Layout AsBuilt 2025-10-11.png|500px|caption]]

The tables themselves have additional information (dimensions) on them. Here they are in a tabular format that lays it out similar to what it would be on display. Each of the tables may be clicked on to download a PNG image file or to open it in a separate browser window for better viewing.

{|
|-
| [[File:MT-11c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-12c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-13.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-14.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-15.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-16.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-17.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-18.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" | [[File:MT-19c.png|50px|caption]]
| [[File:MT-20c.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-10.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| [[File:MT-21.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-09.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-35c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" |

[[File:MT-34.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:top;" |

[[File:MT-33.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-32c.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-22.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-08.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-36c.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-31c.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-23.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-07.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| style="text-align:center;" | Bridge
|
|
| style="text-align:center;" | Bridge
|
|
| [[File:MT-24.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-06.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-01.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-30.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-25.png|50px|caption]]
|-
| [[File:MT-05c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-04c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-03c.png|50px|caption]]
| [[File:MT-02c.png|50px|caption]]
|
|
| [[File:MT-29c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-28c.png|50px|caption]]
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" | [[File:MT-27c.png|50px|caption]]
| [[File:MT-26c.png|50px|caption]]
|}

File:MT-36c.png

2025-11-17T22:19:59Z

DErik:

File:MT-35c.png

2025-11-17T22:19:35Z

DErik:

File:MT-34.png

2025-11-17T22:19:04Z

DErik:

File:MT-33.png

2025-11-17T22:18:40Z

DErik:

File:MT-32c.png

2025-11-17T22:18:16Z

DErik:

File:MT-31c.png

2025-11-17T22:17:48Z

DErik:

File:MT-30.png

2025-11-17T22:17:23Z

DErik:

File:MT-29c.png

2025-11-17T22:16:50Z

DErik:

File:MT-28c.png

2025-11-17T22:16:23Z

DErik:

File:MT-27c.png

2025-11-17T22:15:56Z

DErik:

File:MT-26c.png

2025-11-17T22:15:30Z

DErik:

File:MT-25.png

2025-11-17T22:15:07Z

DErik:

File:MT-24.png

2025-11-17T22:14:46Z

DErik:

File:MT-23.png

2025-11-17T22:14:24Z

DErik:

File:MT-22.png

2025-11-17T22:14:01Z

DErik:

File:MT-21.png

2025-11-17T22:13:39Z

DErik:

File:MT-20c.png

2025-11-17T22:13:06Z

DErik:

File:MT-19c.png

2025-11-17T22:12:25Z

DErik:

File:MT-18.png

2025-11-17T22:11:54Z

DErik:

File:MT-17.png

2025-11-17T22:11:02Z

DErik:

File:MT-16.png

2025-11-17T22:10:28Z

DErik:

File:MT-15.png

2025-11-17T22:10:02Z

DErik:

File:MT-14.png

2025-11-17T22:09:36Z

DErik:

File:MT-13.png

2025-11-17T22:09:06Z

DErik:

File:MT-12c.png

2025-11-17T22:08:42Z

DErik:

File:MT-11c.png

2025-11-17T22:08:07Z

DErik:

File:MT-10.png

2025-11-17T22:07:43Z

DErik:

File:MT-09.png

2025-11-17T22:07:18Z

DErik:

File:MT-08.png

2025-11-17T22:06:53Z

DErik:

File:MT-07.png

2025-11-17T22:05:40Z

DErik:

File:MT-06.png

2025-11-17T22:04:31Z

DErik:

File:MT-03c.png

2025-11-17T22:03:34Z

DErik:

File:MT-05c.png

2025-11-17T21:57:30Z

DErik:

File:MT-04c.png

2025-11-17T21:52:32Z

DErik:

File:MT-02c.png

2025-11-17T21:51:54Z

DErik:

File:MT-01.png

2025-11-17T21:50:39Z

DErik: Table MT #01 is the first table after the large lift bridge, in a clockwise fashion.

== Summary ==
Table MT #01 is the first table after the large lift bridge, in a clockwise fashion.

File:MOD SIG Layout AsBuilt 2025-10-11.png

2025-11-17T21:43:14Z

DErik: The entire layout

== Summary ==
The entire layout

RCGRS MRT SIG

2025-11-17T19:42:10Z

DErik:

<center>
'''Welcome to the''' 
Model Railroading Technology 
Special Interest Group</center>
[[File:Cropped 5387.jpg|center|800px]]

The purpose of the MRT SIG is to collect and disseminate information about various tools and equipment used in the creation, maintenance, and operation of model railroads. The MRT SIG will include all sorts of items, from older items still in use to current items now available and to items that are still in the development stages of our current technology. The MRT SIG will also develop information and instruction documents on using these items in all phases of a model railroad layout – from initial site preparation to a completed layout – to include using them in maintenance and modification of the layout and operation of the model railroad.

This wiki is set up and managed by the Rose City Garden Railway Society. For more information on that, please go to the RCGRS web site at https://rosecitygardenrailwaysociety.wildapricot.org/.
{{rtoc}}
==Articles in the MRT Wiki==
As articles are written, they will be placed in various topical categories, and indexed so that you can easily browse through the categories looking for an article of interest. As some articles may touch on multiple topics, the article may be listed multiple times. You can find the categories listed in the "[[MRT SIG Topics]]" page. Just browse through the category descriptions on that page to find one that relates to what you want to know about.

Briefly, the current topics include:
<categorytree mode="all" depth="2">MRT Topics</categorytree>

==Ask Questions==
If you have a curiosity, or a burning need to know something, or just confused about something, PLEASE, just send your question to the [mailto:MRT-SIG@RCGRS.com MRT]. We will be happy to attempt to answer it; and if we can't we will research it for you. Remember, there is no such thing as a stupid question. Or one too simple or too complex. Either may have simple answers, or be very complex answers. And, very probably, you may not be the only one that has that question. Finding and sharing the answers is what the MRT SIG is all about.

==Publication Stages==
===Works In Progress===
There are many articles currently being developed. These include:
<categorytree mode="all" depth="2">Works In Progress</categorytree>
You may look at these to see how they are progressing. However, if you have questions or comments related to them, it would be best to wait until the article progresses to the next stage of development (Pending Review) to ask the questions or make comments. The author may already have thought about the issues and just hasn't gotten to the point of incorporating it into his/her article. Patience is a virtue. But you might learn something about what you are curious about in the meantime by just browsing through them.
===Pending Review===
The next stage of article development is a review cycle. Articles in this category include:
<categorytree mode="all" depth="2">Pending Review</categorytree>
These articles are essentially complete and ready for a more formal announcement. But there may still be unanswered questions related to them, or minor problems with them. You are invited to review the articles in this category and ask questions and make comments. See the [[Sample Article Structure]].


==Contribute==
We aren't all-knowing; that's why the MRT SIG exists.
If you see a question that hasn't been answered yet, and think you have the answer, PLEASE, share that information with us. Or if you just thought someone else might just want to know about something, PLEASE, send [mailto:MRT-SIG@RCGRS.com us] a note, or anything up to a full-blown article. Check out the "[[Sample Article Structure]]" to get some ideas on how to construct and publish an article. We will accept anything in virtually any format to start working up an article with. And we will assist you, if you desire some assistance, in the preparation of the article, or do it ourselves based on the information you provide.

==Caveat and Disclaimer==
While we will attempt to be as accurate and complete with the articles as possible, there may be missing information, incorrect information, or misleading information.

And while we will try to provide sources of materials and equipment, it is not our intent to advertise for, or even to advocate, any particular product or company. What is stated will simply be our best guess as to where items might be acquired, what they might cost, what the integrity or reliability of a vendor is. And while we will attempt to identify suitable materials, equipment, and methods for performing a project or task, we cannot guarantee the applicability of the item to any particular project; and there may be better items than what we identify.

As to how to use materials and equipment, again we will try to be as comprehensive as possible. But there are many ways in which any particular item may be used, and the purpose to which it is put. You are free to do whatever you wish with any of the items mentioned in any of the articles, but, whether you follow the advice and instructions in the article or do something different, you are on your own. We cannot take any responsibility for what might happen - to you or the materials or equipment.

Finally, we urge you to be safe. Use masks when appropriate, Some projects are best done in a well ventilated area. Others may need care in handling the materials; they may be caustic, fragile, cumbersome, or whatever. Be careful. Again, we cannot accept responsibility for any damage done.

Sorry, but this is somewhat of a legal thing that will keep us out of trouble.

==Other References==
*[[:Category:Wiki Article Development‏‎]]: This category includes a set of articles like "Help" pages. They cover things such as how to create an article and working with a wiki site like this one.
Here is a list of other references you might find useful in creating an article:
*[[Index to Uploaded Manuals]]: As it says, an index to documents that have been uploaded to this wiki. These articles have not been edited by anyone in the MRT SIG, and come from a variety of sources. So take them as they are. The list may not be current.
*[[mediawikiwiki:Help:Contents|MediaWiki main help page]]: A starting point for learning about how the wiki itself works. We have also provided some help of our own that will probably reduce the time needed to research simple page development tasks. That help is also listed in the "[[MRT SIG Topics]]" page.

RCGRS MRT SIG

2024-08-30T15:40:10Z

DErik:

Pneumatic Switches

2024-08-21T15:00:17Z

DErik:

[[Category:Tracks]]
Article Synopsis<hr>
This article describes the installation and use of pneumatic switches. The information is provided by Tom Gaps, who has installed these on his layout. The details are specific to Sunset Valley switches but may be adapted to other brands of switches.
{{rtoc}}
[[Category:Works In Progress]] Under construction/modification by [[User:DErik|DErik]] ([[User talk:DErik|talk]]) 14:40, 20 August 2024 (PDT). Source is Tom Gaps. 

=Standard Mounting=
Sunset Valley switches come with two extra long ties located at the points of the switch. These are called the Head Ties. The extra length normally extends out away from the switch on the side of the departing track (inside curve) (see Fig #1). In some cases the head ties need to be on the other side of the switch and can be ordered with Reverse Head Ties.[[File:TO-01.JPG|thumb|Fig #1: Head Ties]] 
The throw mechanism for the switch is mounted on these Head Ties. Fig #2 shows a manual Ground Throw mounted on the Head Ties and connected to the throw bar with a stainless steel rod. Fig #3 shows that rod in better detail. An optional Switch Stand (Fig #4) can be used in place of the Ground Throw.[[File:TO-02.JPG|thumb|Fig #2: Head Ties with manual Ground Throw]][[File:TO-08.JPG|thumb|Fig #3: Throw rod for manual switching]][[File:TO-07.JPG|thumb|Fig #4: Switch stand]] 
For automated throws, a remote controlled pneumatic linear motor can be mounted on the Head Ties. The pneumatic motor is a two position cylinder that is operated by compressed air. The cylinder is moved to the Active Position and held there by compressed air; it is returned to the Default (retracted) position by an internal spring when the compressed air is vented away. At full extension the piston will move 9.5 mm. The throw distance for the switch points is 7.5mm, so the pneumatic piston has excess throw distance which allows it to maintain pressure on the points in both Active and Default positions. 

Fig #5 and Fig #6 show the pneumatic motor attached to a mounting plate with a single machine screw at one end. This allows the other end to swing from side to side to adjust for a variation in throw rod connection point. The mounting plate is attached to the top of the Head Ties (see Fig #7 and Fig #8). The air line is connected to one end of the pneumatic motor while the piston extends out the other end. The motor comes with a small machine screw on the end of the piston. This screw drops into a predrilled hole in the throw rod. The mounting plate has two holes that can be used to attach the mounting plate to the Head Ties. Before attaching the mounting plate to the Head Ties, be sure the mounting plate is pulled back about 1mm so that the default position spring will be slightly activated, to ensure the switch points are held firmly in place when the spring returns the points to their default position. This will leave about 8.5 mm of piston movement which is more than enough to move the switch points to the Active Position.
{|
|+'''Pneumatic switch with mounting plate'''
|-
| [[File:TO-03.JPEG|thumb|Fig #5]]
| [[File:TO-04.JPEG|thumb|Fig #6]]
|-
| [[File:TO-05.JPG|thumb|Fig #7]]
| [[File:TO-06.JPG|thumb|Fig #8]]
|}
It takes 15-20 psi of air pressure to neutralize the effects of the default position return spring and another 15-20 psi to move the points firmly to the active position, i.e. the air line needs to supply 35-40 psi to operate the switch motor. Use only enough air pressure to safely operate the switch points. Excess air pressure will cause the points to slam into position harder than they need to and may cause the points to fail prematurely from repeated slamming in the stock rail.

=Alternate Mounting=
When the switch is located some distance away, it can be hard to tell if the points have activated. One solution for this problem is to mount a manual switch stand to the Head Ties and connect it to the throw rod. As the points are moved by the pneumatic motor, the throw rod will activate the switch stand, causing it to rotate in response to the change in point settings. Note: You will need to remove the manual switch stand handle as this handle also acts as a locking mechanism preventing the switch stand from following the change in switch point position. 

Unfortunately, the pneumatic motor and the manual switch stand can not both be mounted on top of the Head Ties at the same time. The solution to this problem is to mount the pneumatic motor on the bottom of the Head Ties. You can either mount it at the same location on the Head Ties but on the bottom of the Head Ties or you can mount it directly under the switch points. Mounting it directly under the points has the added advantage of being able to choose which end of the throw rod to connect to the motor. When mounted at the top or bottom at the standard location on the Head Ties, the Default Position will always be the straight track, or it will be the curved track path if using Reverse Head Ties. Mounting the switch motor directly under the switch points allows either the straight track position or the curved track position to be the Default Position. 

Fig #9 shows the pneumatic motor attached to the bottom of the switch, under the switch points. When mounted to the bottom of the Head Ties, some form of protection must be provided to prevent the ballast under the ties from interfering with the movement of the switch motor piston. One solution is shown in Figs #10 through #13. A length of 2” black PVC pipe cut into a half pipe fits nicely under the switch, straddling the Head Ties and switch motor giving it a protected pocket in which to operate.[[File:TO-09.JPG|thumb|Fig #9: Pnematic switch mounted under switch points, connected to Head Ties]]
{|
|+'''Pneumatic switch mounted under turnout switch points'''
|-
| [[File:TO-10.JPG|thumb|Fig #10: Split a 2" PVC tube in half]]
| [[File:TO-11.JPG|thumb|Fig #11: The half tube next to the switch - for size contrast]]
|-
| [[File:TO-12.JPG|thumb|Fig #12: The switch surrounded by the tube - view of underside of track)]]
| [[File:TO-13.JPG|thumb|Fig #13: The competed switch assembled and as viewed from above]]
|}

=Side Notes=

==Connecting To The Switch==
As supplied by Sunset Valley, the 1/2” 1-72 screw at the end of the piston is not long enough to reach the throw bar when the piston is mounted on the bottom of the switch. This screw will need to be replaced with a 3/4” 1-72 screw. Also, over time, the constant side pressure on this screw will cause it to bend ever so slightly; but it's just enough of a bend that it fails to fully close the points. I have had to replace this screw on three switches thus far, after 10 years of faultless operation. It only takes a small amount of bending to induce 1 mm of side movement at the end of the screw. Also, I chose to drill two additional holes in the mounting plate to allow for four screws to mount it to the Head Ties.

==Compressor And Air Pressure==
From my compressor to the last switch on the line is about 175 ft. Along that run are about a dozen switches connected to the line via taps using a "T" connector. The Sunset Valley toggle switches "some times" leak a little bit of air and each time you throw a switch you loose some air. As a result, the compressor needs to come on about every 10 minutes to replace the storage tank pressure. My compressor tries to maintain the tank at 125 psi but the pressure lines are set to a much lower pressure. I originally purchased the least expensive (cheapest) compressor I could find (Harbor Freight). Big mistake. That thing was very loud and would scare visitors when it started up. When it failed (froze up) after five years I replaced it with the quietest compressor I could find (it cost a bit more). People hardly notice when it is running making it a very good choice. 

I initially ran the line at 35 psi and everything worked fine. Over time, however, switches started getting a bit stiff and I slowly had to increase the pressure. I now run at 45 psi, to ensure a "snappy" throw of the switch points. The return spring in the piston has never been an issue and there is no way (that I know of) to adjust the pressure provided by this spring. 

==Air Lines==
The air lines tend to deteriorate over time when exposed to the direct sun. This deterioration causes the lines to become stiff and a bit brittle. A sharp bend in a line experiencing this deterioration results in the formation of small cracks that eventually leak a significant amount of air. Protect the air lines from the direct sun and avoid sharp bends in the line where it is exposed to the sun.

=Electric Switch Motor vs Pneumatic Switch Motor=
The biggest disadvantage with pneumatic switch motors appears to be the supply lines. The slightest nick in the line will result in a loss of air pressure causing the switches farther down the line to become inoperable. With electrically operated switch motors a small nick in the insulation of an electric wire does not suffer this same problem. On the other hand, an electrically operated switch motor depends on a short burst of power to the electric solenoid to active the motor; and after that it depends on a relatively weak spring to hold the points in place. With the pneumatic switch motor, the air pressure to throw the switch is constant, holding the point firmly in place; and when the air pressure it removed, the spring returning the points to their Default setting is very strong and provides continuous pressure on the point to hold it in place. In addition, pneumatic switches, by their very design, must be air tight so little ground critters can't get inside to build mud nests and foul up the mechanism. Also, all of the components are stainless steel and/or brass, so there is no issue with corrosion.

=Authors and Contributors=
*Author: Tom Gaps
*Editor: Don Erikstrup ([[User:DErik|DErik]] ([[User talk:DErik|talk]]) August 2024)
*Others: Please comment on this using the “discussion” tab above or send an email to [mailto:MRT-SIG@RCGRS.com?Subject=MRT-SIG:%20Tracks&Body=Put%20your%20comments%20here. MRT SIG] . And contribute additional information here and in other articles.

Pneumatic Switches

2024-08-21T14:00:41Z

DErik:

[[Category:Tracks]]
Article Synopsis<hr>
This article describes the installation and use of pneumatic switches. The information is provided by Tom Gaps, who has installed these on his layout. The details are specific to Sunset Valley switches but may be adapted to other brands of switches.
{{rtoc}}
[[Category:Works In Progress]] Under construction/modification by [[User:DErik|DErik]] ([[User talk:DErik|talk]]) 14:40, 20 August 2024 (PDT). Source is Tom Gaps. 
=Standard Mounting=
Sunset Valley switches come with two extra long ties located at the points of the switch. These are called the Head Ties. The extra length normally extends out away from the switch on the side of the departing track (inside curve) (see Fig #1). In some cases the head ties need to be on the other side of the switch and can be ordered with Reverse Head Ties.[[File:TO-01.JPG|thumb]] 
The throw mechanism for the switch is mounted on these Head Ties. Fig #2 shows a manual Ground Throw mounted on the Head Ties and connected to the throw bar with a stainless steel rod. Fig #8 shows that rod in better detail. An optional Switch Stand (Fig #7) can be used in place of the Ground Throw.[[File:TO-02.JPG|thumb]][[File:TO-08.JPG|thumb]][[File:TO-07.JPG|thumb]] 
For automated throws, a remote controlled pneumatic linear motor can be mounted on the Head Ties. The pneumatic motor is a two position cylinder that is operated by compressed air. The cylinder is moved to the Active Position and held there by compressed air; it is returned to the Default (retracted) position by an internal spring when the compressed air is vented away. At full extension the piston will move 9.5 mm. The throw distance for the switch points is 7.5mm, so the pneumatic piston has excess throw distance which allows it to maintain pressure on the points in both Active and Default positions. 
Fig #3 and Fig #4 show the pneumatic motor attached to a mounting plate with a single machine screw at one end. This allows the other end to swing from side to side to adjust for a variation in throw rod connection point. The mounting plate is attached to the top of the Head Ties, see Fig #5 and Fig #6. The air line is connected to one end of the pneumatic motor while the piston extends out the other end. The motor comes with a small machine screw on the end of the piston. This screw drops into a predrilled hole in the throw rod. The mounting plate has two holes that can be used to attach the mounting plate to the Head Ties. Before attaching the mounting plate to the Head Ties, be sure the mounting plate is pulled back about 1mm so that the default position spring will be slightly activated, to ensure the switch points are held firmly in place when the spring returns the points to their default position. This will leave about 8.5 mm of piston movement which is more than enough to move the switch points to the Active Position.
{|
|+'''Pneumatic switch with mounting plate'''
|-
| [[File:TO-03.JPEG|thumb]]
| [[File:TO-04.JPEG|thumb]]
|-
| [[File:TO-05.JPG|thumb]]
| [[File:TO-06.JPG|thumb]]
|}
It takes 15-20 psi of air pressure to neutralize the effects of the default position return spring and another 15-20 psi to move the points firmly to the active position, i.e. the air line needs to supply 35-40 psi to operate the switch motor. Use only enough air pressure to safely operate the switch points. Excess air pressure will cause the points to slam into position harder than they need to and may cause the points to fail prematurely from repeated slamming in the stock rail.
=Alternate Mounting=
When the switch is located some distance away, it can be hard to tell if the points have activated. One solution for this problem is to mount a manual switch stand to the Head Ties and connect it to the throw rod. As the points are moved by the pneumatic motor, the throw rod will activate the switch stand, causing it to rotate in response to the change in point settings. Note: You will need to remove the manual switch stand handle as this handle also acts as a locking mechanism preventing the switch stand from following the change in switch point position. 
Unfortunately, the pneumatic motor and the manual switch stand can not both be mounted on top of the Head Ties at the same time. The solution to this problem is to mount the pneumatic motor on the bottom of the Head Ties. You can either mount it at the same location on the Head Ties but on the bottom of the Head Ties or you can mount it directly under the switch points. Mounting it directly under the points has the added advantage of being able to choose which end of the throw rod to connect to the motor. When mounted at the top or bottom at the standard location on the Head Ties, the Default Position will always be the straight track, or it will be the curved track path if using Reverse Head Ties. Mounting the switch motor directly under the switch points allows either the straight track position or the curved track position to be the Default Position. 
Fig #9 shows the pneumatic motor attached to the bottom of the switch, under the switch points. When mounted to the bottom of the Head Ties, some form of protection must be provided to prevent the ballast under the ties from interfering with the movement of the switch motor piston. One solution is shown in Figs 10,11 and 12. A length of 2” black PVC pipe cut into a half pipe fits nicely under the switch, straddling the Head Ties and switch motor giving it a protected pocket in which to operate.[[File:TO-09.JPG|thumb]]
{|
|+'''Pneumatic switch mounted under turnout switch points'''
|-
| [[File:TO-10.JPG|thumb]]
| [[File:TO-11.JPG|thumb]]
|-
| [[File:TO-12.JPG|thumb]]
| [[File:TO-13.JPG|thumb]]
|}
Side Notes: As supplied by Sunset Valley, the 1/2” 1-72 screw at the end of the piston is not long enough to reach the throw bar when the piston is mounted on the bottom of the switch. This screw will need to be replaced with a 3/4” 1-72 screw. Also, over time, the constant side pressure on this screw will cause it to bend ever so slightly but it's just enough of a bend that it fails to fully close the points. I have had to replace this screw on three switches thus far, after 10 years of faultless operation. It only takes a small amount of bending to induce 1 mm of side movement at the end of the screw. Also, I chose to drill two additional holes in the mounting plate to allow for four screws to mount it to the Head Ties.
=Electric Switch Motor vs Pneumatic Switch Motor=
The biggest disadvantage with pneumatic switch motors appears to be the supply lines. The slightest nick in the line will result in a loss of air pressure causing the switches farther down the line to become inoperable. With electrically operated switch motors a small nick in the insulation of an electric wire does not suffer this same problem. On the other hand, an electrically operated switch motor depends on a short burst of power to the electric solenoid to active the motor; and after that it depends on a relatively weak spring to hold the points in place. With the pneumatic switch motor, the air pressure to throw the switch is constant, holding the point firmly in place; and when the air pressure it removed, the spring returning the points to their Default setting is very strong and provides continuous pressure on the point to hold it in place. In addition, pneumatic switches, by their very design, must be air tight so little ground critters can't get inside to build mud nests and foul up the mechanism. Also, all of the components are stainless steel and/or brass, so there is no issue with corrosion.

Category:Tracks

2024-08-20T23:40:48Z

DErik:

[[Category:MRT Topics]]
This category includes articles related to tracks, including turnouts, crossovers, etc. It will also cover switch motors and mechanisms.
It will attempt to answer questions such as:
:*What are the standard sizes of tracks?
:*Will Aristo and LGB work together?
:*Will steel track be better for me, or will brass?
:*What is 332 track, and what other designations are there?
:*Should I use manual or automated switch machines?

[mailto:MRT-SIG@RCGRS.com?Subject=MRT-SIG:%20Tracks&Body=Put%20your%20request%20for%20info%20here. Ask a question or suggest an article to put here]

To get your page to show up here, include the string <big><pre>
[[Category:Tracks]] 
</pre></big> on a separate line near the top of your article.

Category:Tracks

2024-08-20T23:39:14Z

DErik:

[[index.php?title=Category:MRT Topics]]
This category includes articles related to tracks, including turnouts, crossovers, etc. It will also cover switch motors and mechanisms.
It will attempt to answer questions such as:
:*What are the standard sizes of tracks?
:*Will Aristo and LGB work together?
:*Will steel track be better for me, or will brass?
:*What is 332 track, and what other designations are there?
:*Should I use manual or automated switch machines?

[mailto:MRT-SIG@RCGRS.com?Subject=MRT-SIG:%20Tracks&Body=Put%20your%20request%20for%20info%20here. Ask a question or suggest an article to put here]

To get your page to show up here, include the string <big><pre>
[[Category:Tracks]] 
</pre></big> on a separate line near the top of your article.