IRV2 cables

The length is the maximum that Lionel recommends for operation without electrical interference.  The cables for the IRV2 sensor pads are unique to them.  Lionel has said in the past if you want to lengthen the IRV2 cables you can but they will not guarantee they will work properly.

I ran into the same issue.  I'm picking up a second IRV2 to service the more distant sensors.  My major concern is the two 20' PDI cables that I'll be using to support this configuration!  I'm wondering about data transmission issues with those...

Lionel makes a part “691JOINB00 PCB/PDI bus joiner with power Jack”, but they are ordered only by contacting the service department. Still waiting for that to work out. It is listed on the website. I have lots to discuss if Lionel shows up at the TCA national convention in California.

@gunrunnerjohn posted:

I ran into the same issue.  I'm picking up a second IRV2 to service the more distant sensors.  My major concern is the two 20' PDI cables that I'll be using to support this configuration!  I'm wondering about data transmission issues with those...

I have a couple of those on my layout with zero issue.

@MartyE posted:

I have a couple of those on my layout with zero issue.

Good to know Marty, I already have the SER2, WiFi, and four CSM2 boxes strung on the PDI bus, now I'm adding two of the IRV2 boxes for the sensor sleds.  Did you need to put one of the bus terminators on that configuration?

@seattleslug posted:

Lionel makes a part “691JOINB00 PCB/PDI bus joiner with power Jack”, but they are ordered only by contacting the service department. Still waiting for that to work out. It is listed on the website. I have lots to discuss if Lionel shows up at the TCA national convention in California.

Interesting, I guess if you have too many LCS boxes, more power is called for.

@gunrunnerjohn posted:

Good to know Marty, I already have the SER2, WiFi, and four CSM2 boxes strung on the PDI bus, now I'm adding two of the IRV2 boxes for the sensor sleds.  Did you need to put one of the bus terminators on that configuration?

I did.  On my previous layout using most of the same components I had issues engaging the record function which needed the "terminator".  I just put it on from the start on this layout.

I guess I have to get a terminator.  I think I'll just make one, sounds a lot easier than fooling around trying to get Lionel to send one.  I have the connector parts, and I suspect I can scare up a .01uf cap...

0.01 uf capacitor goes on pins 4 & 5 of the connector. The remaining pins are empty. The wire sticking out is just to make it easier to pull the plug out. I believe it is a ceramic bypass capacitor. The purpose as you know is to prevent a reflection.

Here is the service note for the noise filter.