Signaling and The Grapevine^[TM]

The Grapevine Node

• see specifications below (Note: picture below is pre-ASD, but Node layout remains the same)

• microprocessor controlled network node, network runs at 38,400 baud (adjustable in software) in RS422/485 
• up to 126 Grapevine Nodes (plus weighscale at #127)
• each Grapevine Node can control:
  • up to 96 signals and 32 switchmotors using advanced "2006 Grapevine Universal Driverboard"
    • up to 48 leds, switchmotors or relays using "2003 Grapevine 12-position Driverboard" 
    • use one driverboard at each "bank" connector
  • up to 24 detected blocks in total, from up to three microprocessor-based Grapevine ASD (Advanced Serial Detectors)
  • up to 8 "parallel/analog inputs" (on/off switches)
  • has a parallel output for
    • digital fastclock, or
    • a printer, or
    • hotbox display, or
    • 8 additional "parallel/analog inputs".
  • dedicated output for analog fastclock
  • dedicated output for highway crossing flasher (gate control is from driverboard)
• Grapevine Node address can be changed in software
• control selections are made in signal software
  • selections can be changed at any time
  • change selections as your Grapevine network grows
• Grapevine nodes can hitched together in any order
• fastclock code built-in to each node, you can put clocks anywhere
• weighscale, node 127, has its own node
• 5-volt regulator built-in, requires only 1 power supply +9 to +18 volt somewhat filtered DC
• all connections are by plugs and sockets - no soldering
• comes assembled, programmed and tested
  • internal software can be updated (system programming plug)
• green "power on and internal software working" led