I've been testing until now Uhlenbrock modules, last ones where servo modules with contact relays for turnout frogs, and I felt a bit disappointed with them for the following reasons:
- They are not connected to Loconet bus, directly connected to DCC instead
- Programming must be done accessing the module to press a button or connecting the module to the programming track
- They have the option to change polarity in the middle of the movement (necessary for Peco code 55 turnouts), but it's difficult to adjust and anyway it generates short cuts in some turnouts.
- Price: all modules are expensive, but like any other good brand (Digitrax or ESU also)
I've been searching DIY solutions because there is no solution in the market able to accomplish my own requirements:
- All accessory modules (outputs, retro, servo, lighting, ...) must be communicated through LocoNet (Digitrax and Uhlenbrock compatible). I don't want to waste the DCC "band width" for anything else than locos and rolling stock.
- Power to modules must be delivered through loconet connector (using Loconet professional with power wires, not as Uhlenbrock), and all modules must be feed with the same voltage in order to simplify wiring.
- Servo modules must be able to drive the switch frogs through an optional relay board, as an option or expansion of the servo module. When feeding frogs, it must disconnect the frog power, do the movement and after feed again the frog with the correct polarity. In this way you avoid all problems and short circuits when changing polarity at the beginning, end, or in the middle of the movement (very difficult to adjust).
- Loop management module working by current consume detection, not by short circuit detection. I don't want short circuits in my layout, doesn't matter how well protected and short in time they be.
- These loop management modules must be able to work stand-alone or connected to Loconet for feedback.
- Lighting modules with many light effects
- Modules optoisolated from Loconet and other communication interfaces
- Programming should be done without the need to access fiscally to the module (no changing switches, disconnect other modules or similar)
- All wire connections through standard connectors or screw terminals, never soldered
- Modules for everything!!!!! Even to connect Loconet to internet or publish all services in a wireless. I want to drive everything with my tablet or PC with no wires, wireless.
- CHEAP! CHEAP! CHEAP! Possibility to do-it-myself and solder boards.
- Modular boards: one Loconet interface board common to all modules and expansion boards for each type of accessory.
And I found through the Rocrail project (a freeware railroad model layout control software) the modules from Mr. Peter Giling. These modules have all the previous requirements implemented and you can buy only the boards (for 3€ or less) or the completed kit with programmed pics and components to solder yourself. You can even build your own station or control panel. That's a ruff schema, and think that all Loconet modules from any other brand are compatible:
Until now I've tested GCA50 (the main interface board between Loconet and all the other boards), GCA93 (8 current detector interface with fused connections) and GCA136 + GCA137 (servo modules with relay board). All this modules work perfectly with my Intellibox Basic and the programming is really easy from Rocrail.
In a future I plan to build the 3Amp power supply when the number of GCA50 increases, because Intellibox hasn't enough power (just 0,5Amp). This 3Amp power supply also gives you an optoisolated ethernet connecton to deliver the control of all your layout to the net...... really interesting.....
I'll post my experiences with each of the modules soon.
