Hi all, may seem like a simple question, but I do not see the resource for setup anywhere. I have my Atlas switches wired for remote operation, but since I now have the Base3, I would like to utilize the app for everything. What parts do I need to order and if anyone has this setup, what is the setup process? Thanks ahead of time!
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The ASC2 will connect to and allow Legacy control of remote turnouts/switches and other types of electrical accessories. It connects to the Base 3 via a PDI port. More information about the LCS ASC2 and the Layout Control System App can be found at this link> LCS ASC2 Accessory Switch Controller
When you say that you have them wired for remote operation, does that mean you’re using a CAB2 or CAB1 remote to operate them?
Ken,
As long as you're talking Atlas... thought I'd throw these 3d printed inserts at you.
Hopefully, you never have an issue... but, Atlas 'Inserts' ...the O72 inserts that come with the switches are about 42mm long. These are 72mm long and cured any and all roller issues... including the infamous LM T1 front roller. They fit between the rail spikes (see photo) and sit below the center rails a whisker. Adjust size to fit any Atlas Switch... and, add a dot of GOOP on one tie and they are rock solid. The Goop allows you to remove the insert and easily peels right off the tie.
Top View O72 Inserts... and, Bottom View...
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@Dennis-LaRock always appreciate your support! My switches are o45 and 1 o36.
@SteveH appreciate the help!
In that case, Steve’s recommendation to research the ASC2 is spot on. I have several Atlas switches wired into ASC2’s, using the wiring recommendations straight from the ASC2 manual.
@Jimz what exactly are you using to connect from atlas switch to ASC2? I have 2 boards for my ATlas track....as I have a signal tower too.... in other words, what cable do i need to buy and how do I connect it all....???
all of the connections from the ASC2 to the switch are wired. I used 18/3 thermostat wire for mine. I do not have the atlas signal system, which may be what you’re referring to.
@Dntbsillynow posted:@Jimz the remotes that come with the switches....see photo.
Ken,
Those remote switches suck... don't get one stuck or accidentally lean on them or have a kid play with them ...you will burnout the the Atlas Switch Motor in less time than it takes to say W-T-F! When you get a moment read about Tortoise Switch Machines... there are 977 reasons to scrap the Atlas Switch Motors and install Tortoises.
Where did all the Atlas Switch Motors go?
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@Dennis-LaRock i have posted on other threads how trashy these things are and I say that especially since they are so expensive. I have 6 and 3 work and only 1 of the 3 is robust which works in any condition- bump it, ballast, etc. The others are all temperamental or do not work at all. Luckily with my small layout I only really throw 3 of them. The other 3 are in one position always. But as I grow I may look at your suggestion. I habe already spent way too much on these. I actually saw a layout about a year ago which used pneumatic to throw switches. I really wished I remembered who so I could get info. I have an awesome compressor which I rarely use for airbrushing anymore and it is extremely quite. California Air Systems. Oh well. I love Atlas track, these switch machines are pure trash. 🤡
@Dennis-LaRock is there an O scale Tortoise machine? Everything I see is N/HO...please advise for a novice in the hobby....
To my knowledge the Circuitron 800-6000 is the same Tortoise Switch Machine used for all scales. Aside from beating *all* coil fired switch motors hands down... they are rock solid and I personally love not looking at the switch motor top-side.
You are one pretty darned impressive 'Newbie' Ken!
@Dennis-LaRock appreciate the kind words! As a certified coach/leader, you have to 1st be a student! I am impressing myself, WAY more than any of you guys....lol! In the last 10 months, I joined the model railroad community, built a layout, and started a 3D modeling/making business. I did not do or knew much about any of those things before November/Dec 2023 ....#CRAZY
OH!!! Make sure to get ZipZ solder-less Connectors for each Tortoise they make the wiring a breeze~~~
@Dennis-LaRock posted:Ken,
As long as you're talking Atlas... thought I'd throw these 3d printed inserts at you.
Hopefully, you never have an issue... but, Atlas 'Inserts' ...the O72 inserts that come with the switches are about 42mm long. These are 72mm long and cured any and all roller issues... including the infamous LM T1 front roller. They fit between the rail spikes (see photo) and sit below the center rails a whisker. Adjust size to fit any Atlas Switch... and, add a dot of GOOP on one tie and they are rock solid. The Goop allows you to remove the insert and easily peels right off the tie.
Top View O72 Inserts... and, Bottom View...
Dennis, was wondering if you 3d printed the inserts or purchased them? I would like to get inserts for my switches, I do not have a 3d printer or the skill to print them if I had one.
@W&W posted:Dennis, was wondering if you 3d printed the inserts or purchased them? I would like to get inserts for my switches, I do not have a 3d printer or the skill to print them if I had one.
Craig,
I printed them. I only have O72 & #5 switches... so, I cannot properly size them for other switches. If you have O72 & #5s shoot me an email with number needed (Left & Right), with your address and I'll you send you a pile. I suppose you could try to clip them with some nippers for other size switches... but, I cannot speak to the end result.
dennis,can the tortouise machines be set up for non derailing? I suppose not.
@Lionelzwl2012 posted:dennis,can the tortouise machines be set up for non derailing? I suppose not.
The answer is yes.
@Dntbsillynow posted:Hi all, may seem like a simple question, but I do not see the resource for setup anywhere. I have my Atlas switches wired for remote operation, but since I now have the Base3, I would like to utilize the app for everything. What parts do I need to order and if anyone has this setup, what is the setup process? Thanks ahead of time!
I use a SER2 connected directly to my BASE3 & from the SER2 to the ASC2’ s Those are Hardwired directly to the Atlas Switches. Works great !’ I can Opetatef each with my CAB2 or CAB3.
@Fredstrains I believe you answered my question, I need to purchase a SER2 and ASC2, correct? I have 6 switches. So, 1 of each or do I need more to cover all 6 switches? No idea how many each unit can support. Thanks ahead of time!
@Dntbsillynow posted:@Fredstrains I believe you answered my question, I need to purchase a SER2 and ASC2, correct? I have 6 switches. So, 1 of each or do I need more to cover all 6 switches? No idea how many each unit can support. Thanks ahead of time!
If only using one or more ASC2s, he SER2 isn't necessary with the Base 3. The Base 3 already has 3 PDI ports built into it for LCS devices like the ASC2. With earlier Bases (1 and 2) the SER 2 was a necessary intermediate component to translate the serial signal coming out of earlier Bases to PDI format.
Quoting from Lionel Power and Control website: (link here)> LCS ASC2 Accessory Switch
The ASC2 can be operated from Lionel CAB remotes or Wi-Fi APPs. In all operating modes, the ASC2 is connected to the LCS system using an LCS PDI cable. This carries commands as well as power for the ASC2’s control electronics.
To control 6 switches you would need two ASC2's
The ASC2 can be configured to “switch mode” or two types of “accessory mode” operation. When configured in switch mode, an ASC2 operates up to four remotely operated switches from Lionel and other manufacturers. The ASC2 has eight Normally Open relays, with four banks of two complementary outputs. One pair of relays will activate the “THRU” position with one set of contacts, and the other set of contacts will activate the “OUT” position.
@SteveH tyvm!
The company who made the pneumatic connectors to throw turnouts back quite some time ago was named " Del Aire" products if my memory is correct.
@Steve Horvath appreciate the information! I actually purchased some 🐢 machines. However, I have not found any instructions on how to install them for my setup. I have AtlasO turnouts with the remote push switches that come with the turnout. The Atlas throws are trash and most of my 6 do not work and the ones work are temperamental. @Dennis-LaRock suggested 🐢 and I purchased. However, I want to utilize these through the Lionel Base3 and all the information out there via how to videos is DCC or connecting to panel light switches. I would think there would be someone who has my setup and uses these. I have no interest in creating a panel of lights for my small layout. When i move and have a larger more complex setup, sure but not now. If there is anyone out there who has a diagram or instructions on how to hook these up with an AC transformer to Lionel ASC2 to Lionel Base 3,please let me know. Thanks, all.