Where do I start looking for info on PLC control of digitrax equipped locomotives...would like to automate my layout (the layout part I understand), what I dont know is how/what I could use (plc card? Analog IO?) to select a locomotive and give it a speed to run, blow the whistle, etc. I have access to Siemens and Allen Bradley plc's and related gear.

Thanks

-- Leslie Eversole (leslie@eversole.us), June 09, 2004

Answers

As much as I like ladder logic for controlling trains, I don't know of anyone interfacing PLCs to DCC systems.

Digitrax has an RS-232 to Loconet converter module that you might be able to use with the BASIC modules that Allen-Bradley and many of the other PLC manufacturers make. With any luck, you will be able to program the BASIC module to generate Loconet commands. Digitrax does allow for individuals to use their protocol.

-- Allan Gartner (wire4dcc_admin@comcast.net), June 11, 2004.