ProTrak^[TM]
(for XP, 2000, MS W98, W95NT4.0)

Signaling and The Grapevine^[TM]

• Simple electronics: plug and click connections, pre-assembled boards
• Complete! Software includes the knowledge you want for prototype signaling!
• Affordable! Lowest cost system available
• Fast to install! Have your signals working over the weekend.

Advanced Serial Detector (ASD): optimized for DCC

ASD: The Third Generation Grapevine Detector

• comes fully-assembled and tested
  • detector works when you plug it in
  • means pc-board is smaller and cost is much less
• instant "on" occupied - for meeting 13-foot Rule
• 2.0 second delayed- off (longer periods adjustable in software)
• logic totally isolated from track power
  • no "sneak ground paths"
  • makes wiring simpler and more reliable
• very low voltage drop: you can install detectors incrementally over time
• 8 detectors per board
  • dramatically lowers cost to you
• micro-processor-based
  • replaces "parts" with software in detector
  • much more reliable
  • dramatically lowers cost to you
• 7.5 amp continuous rating for each block
• fully temperature compensated
• green "occupied" led for each detector
  • these leds flash sequentially showing detector program is working
  • block occupied green leds, one per block.  Leds show:
    • solid green when occupied
    • flashing green when occupying car or engine is moving
• red "power on" led

• Advanced Serial Detector (ASD) shows motion in block 
  • micro-processor can analyze signal from track
  • detects one car, many cars, or locomotive 
  • sensitivity is adjustable in software

Options

• string up to up to 3 ASD detectors serially from one Node
  • this option results in high "power-bus wire density" at the detectors
  • we suggest limiting this optional use to multi-deck railroads
    • Node and first detector on one level, 2nd detector on other level)
• "DCC power-off" message.  Controlled from ProTrak (messages sent to Node)
• "Firmware" (software in detector) can be updated (if ever necessary) at factory

Other Detectors

• we have looked at "coil" detectors, and found they lack the sensitivity to detect motion
• standard diode detectors have large insertion voltage losses
  • need dummy detectors at end of detected trackage
  • may affect DCC signal
• IR (infra-red) spot detectors don't provide continuous coverage in block
  • we use IR detectors for special locations such as approaching end-of-staging track