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I just read Allan's column in MRR sept. I am gald I did. What? blow to my plans. Now I have a cunundrum. I have laid all my track.
I am using DCC specialties PSX, PSX-AR and Frog -ARs. I also planned to use the Atlas signal system. I have actually purchased all the parts. I set up a test trac and and tested the system and liked it for what I need. But Now am reading I wont be able to use it as planned.
My test track did not have any of the above mentioned boards or devices. so I had no problems. In Allan's column he mentions how these boards will use current that willand cause block detection to be detected.
Did I understand that correctly?
So basically my plan to use block detection with the Atlas system has to be scrapped and I need to find another type of detection.
I can wire the Frod to the tortoise but I am not sure what to do about short curcuit protection?
Perry

Hi Perry,

I'm glad to know people are reading my column.? Sorry if the September column ruined your day.

As far as using the Atlas signal system, I am not an expert on it's use.? I just read up on it for another reader.? (See the Nov. 2021 Model Railroader for my latest column.)? As long as you are not using DCC track power after a block detector, I think you will be able to use it.

As far as block detection and using things like the PSX, PSX-AR, and Frog Juicers (I think that is what you meant by Frog-AR), ANY electronic device placed after a block detector will likely cause it to report a track occupied signal.

Now what?? If you want to use Frog Juicers, you can success by placing the block detection on the output (frog) wire of the Frog Juicer.? If you want to use the PSX and PSX-AR's, you will need to put the block detector after it.

Some time in 2022 I will probably be writing about using a block detector and feeders.? ALL feeders to a given block must be tied together - to a sub bus or whatever - and then that sub bus must be attached to the output of the block detector.? A block detector cannot be tied to a single feeder of a multi feeder section of track and be expected to work if the other feeders bypass the block detector.

Allan Gartner
Wiring for DCC

Your frogs and short circuit protection devices should be located in the wiring between your track detectors and you DCC track power. In this way they do not see the supply current. Not detecting on the frogs will not adversely effect your signals because the track section not detected is minuscule.

Ken Harstine
413-250-8298