Reverse Loop Occupancy Detection Options

[gjohnston]

I am looking for a good block occupancy detection option for the two reverse loops on my layout. My control station is a Z21 and I am running one Z21 10819 block detector unit that can detect 16 blocks or sections of track. My reverse loops are controlled by two PSX-ARs, which I like very much as once I dialed them in work flawlessly. I can't figure out how to wire the Z21 10819 to the reverse loop sections. If I wire it in before the PSX-ARs the block always shows up as occupied due to the power draw of the PSX-ARs themselves. If I wire it in after the PSX-ARs when the reverse loop changed polarity the 10819 does not change polarity and a short is created.

The manual on the PSX-ARs says that they have block occupancy capabilities via J4-3 and J4-4, but the manual doesn't specify how these ports are to be connected to a control station, network, or other device.

My first option is to see if I can get the PSX-ARs to send a block occupied signal to the network. Has anybody done this? If can you explain how this is done?

My second option is to find another solution, possibly using current transformer detecting coils as they are not adversely effected by changes in track polarity. RR-CirKits has such a system, but I am confused about how to set it up and integrate it into my network. Has anyone used this system and can tell me what I need to do to make them work?

Another option is to change out my PSX-ARs with a something like a Digitrax BXPA1 auto reverser, that also has a block occupancy capability built in, but I really like the way the PSX-ARs are controlling my reverse loops.

Thanks for the input.

Greg

 

[gjohnston]

After much internet research and bumbling along I stumbled into an answer to my question regarding if the PSX- AR can be used not only as an auto reverser, but as a block detection device as well.
The answer is yes! As long as I add what DCC Specialties calls a "discrete interface ". This will connect the PSX-AR to the Loconet, and JRMI or other computer software. They sell a device called a Jack Ad Sensor Board, that provides this function. Cost is about $40.00 and will accommodate 8 discrete inputs. At this point I only need two, one for each reverse loop.

Here is a link to the documentation should anyone using the PSX-AR want to use it to add block detection to a reverse loop.

PSX-AR Block Occupancy

Competitive pricing, unsurpassed support & guaranteed satisfaction on model train & digital command control (DCC) products since 1991!

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Here is a link to the Jack Ad Sensor Board itself.

DCC Specialties Jack ADS™ Absolute Discrete Sensor

New From DCC Specialties!

tonystrains.com

Hope this helps someone down the road.

Greg

 

[Iron Horseman]

After much internet research and bumbling along I stumbled into an answer to my question regarding if the PSX- AR can be used not only as an auto reverser, but as a block detection device as well.

That is interesting, and will be good to know if someone else has that same question at a later time.