What do you use?
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Isolated (insulated?) outside third rail with a relay. Flawless operation.
necrails posted:Isolated (insulated?) outside third rail with a relay. Flawless operation.
+1.
I was just researching this. I found an old thread that recommends Z Stuff's dz 1075.
Lionels 153 IR is quite popular, the DZ 1075 is a smaller unit.
I use the Lionel 153 IR with good results.
Mikey
I use the 153R and relays that I use to get from Radio Shack, which has left our area.
Richard
I use the DZ 1075
Karl
Thanks everyone. Space may be somewhat of an issue.
What is the difference between a 1070 and 1075?
Will the isolated/insulated outside rail work with a DZ1008 relay to do the same thing?
Does the DZ1011 do the same thing?
IF space is an issue, GRJ's Relay with insulated rail is the way to go!
Dallee Electronics makes a variety of current-sensing detectors...basic, latching, w/timer, etc.... that are very reliable and easy to install. And, Dallas is a regular in Orange Hall, York.
But, as others above have responded, there are a lot of excellent choices. It's really a matter of experience/personal preference.
KD
Quick question - how far will Lionel 153R reach across tracks ???
I have a tough spot that has a main line and passing siding next to each other and was hoping to kill two birds with one stone
Thx in advance
I use gunrunnerjohn's relays pictured in an above post (with link to site of purchase, Henning's Trains).
The Lionel 153 IR device can be adjusted for "sensitivity" so the "reach" of its IR beam can be somewhat limited -- or unlimited. That's a handy feature for use at a dual mainline (or a main line close to a parallel siding) where you want the IR beam to react to the closer track only.
I once made the mistake of installing a 153 IR on a club layout to control a gateman, with its sensor facing the track (and outward toward the passing audience). As persons walked by, they activated the gateman. When youngsters learned how to trigger the gateman by their motion, they loved the fun; until I moved the device across the track, faced it inward, and limited its sensitivity. I was the party pooper.
The 153 IR is ideal for control of crossing gates, trackside signals, gateman, whistle/horn shed, and such. Totally reliable. MTH makes a similar product. Both devices are disguised as trackside electrical cabinets, so they like they "belong" there as a scenic detail.
Mike LCCA 12394
(ritrainguy)
I use Z Stuff wayside signals which have the little photoelectric eye built into the base. When the train breaks the “beam” the aspect on the signal head automatically changes. I match these up with DZ 1011 dwarfs to create advance indications on the waysides.
If you haven’t invested in wayside signals yet; I would seriously encourage you to look into Z Stuff.
Curt
Have used a number of sensors but the Lionel 153IR seems to work the best, is the most user friendly and looks very nice on the layout. Since it can handle about 5-7A , a direct connection is all that's needed. Using it for grade crossing signals, block, target signals and a semaphore. Works great but at about $40-$45 a pop it gets very expensive in a hurry when you use it at multiple locations on your layout.
The Z-Stuff DZ-1075 is my choice as well. I use the DZ-1075 to control my MTH Pennsy 3 Position Signal Bridge. 
Watch the short video and pay close attention to the signal heads on the signal bridge. 
Chief Bob (Retired) 
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Videos (1)
There are a number of train detection methods including isolated track, IR detectors (two kinds) and magnetic reed relay sensors. All work reasonably well. The reason for using a particular detection scheme can include control panel monitoring, accessory activation, derail prevention, collision avoidance, hidden track monitoring and auto train control. In many cases, the best detection choice will be governed by what you want the detection system to do and how serious a detection fault would be.
Do these IR devices cause dropouts in the signal activation when it sees gaps between cars, or do they have a suitable delay on the activation drop? The problem with my insulated rail method is dropouts caused by intermittent conduction through some train wheels.
Gary.
the 153R has a delay, the signal remains activated as the cars go by.
However, if a car has a very flat back paint scheme the delay fails and the signal goes to its original aspect until a brighter colored car passes by the 153R
Richard
PUFFRBELLY posted:The Z-Stuff DZ-1075 is my choice as well.
Chief Bob (Retired)
Thanks for posting that video Bob! I just installed that signal bridge.
It's nice to see it operate as well as sensor placement.
Just for curiosity. Does anyone know what type of prototypical railside equipment these sensors represent?
I use Zstuff also. No more insulted tracks for me
Gary Liebisch posted:Do these IR devices cause dropouts in the signal activation when it sees gaps between cars, or do they have a suitable delay on the activation drop? The problem with my insulated rail method is dropouts caused by intermittent conduction through some train wheels.
I used the insulated rail method to activate some grade crossing signals. I had some old 12VAC relays so I used one to run the lights. The relay does chatter when lighter cars are on the block. I plan on switching it out with GRJ's relay from Hennings. His board has a small delay relay to hold the relay closed through short signal drops.
Superwarp,
If you spoke nicely to your tracks, they wouldn't be insulted.
I use several brands and types, but the ones I use the most are my favorites - Azatrax detectors. I use them to detect trains for signal operation, and to detect objects to automate accessories. For example, I detect the last log to saw in the Saw Mill to stop the operation. They offer various configurations for detection, and some will detect trains across three tracks.
Alex
Ingeniero No1 posted:I use several brands and types, but the ones I use the most are my favorites - Azatrax detectors. I use them to detect trains for signal operation, and to detect objects to automate accessories. For example, I detect the last log to saw in the Saw Mill to stop the operation. They offer various configurations for detection, and some will detect trains across three tracks.
Alex
I will second that Alex. John Parsons at Azatrax is a great person to work with! I had to have him to walk me threw a few things over the phone and he was just GREAT!
