I'm adding sensor tracks to one of my modules and I need to expose a PDI socket(s) in a convenient place on the module so I can easily plug in a 20 ft. cable to the WiFi in our power cabinet. Connecting directly to the sensor track through an access hole in the module deck is rather inconvenient. An Has anyone identified a part number (Digikey, Mouser, etc.) for the sockets?
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L & N posted:
The spacing looks right, but the housings differ from the Lionel ones.
If I were doing this, I might consider just using the LCS Serial Converter 2 (SER2) which sells for around $35. Although the ser2 outputs may not be needed, it makes a nice junction for the purpose. Actually, it might be a good Lionel product if anybody at Lionel is reading this.
The Ser2 solves part of the problem, by giving you an under module junction and keeping the sensor tracks internally wired within the module. The problem the Ser2 does not solve, is the fact that the sockets are basically unsupported on the board. This system is clearly not designed for repeated plugging and unplugging of sockets. If you hang a PDI cable on the socket without supporting it, it will bend the pins on the board. I can see doing this repeatedly causing the pins to snap off. One could put a couple staples or cable ties in the bottom of the module to relieve it, but then the cable is permanently attached to the module. If you're careful you wont wreck the cable in transit, but its not a guarantee. Hanging things always seem to have a tendency to get in the way. While the connection is positive, its not super secure and i worry what would happen to the socket if someone accidentally snags the cable or steps on it.
I'm dealing with this issue too, and am trying to figure out a stronger cable and connector system to traverse the pass from the power cabinet to the modules. Use of ethernet cabling may be one solution as there are enough wires in the connector and the speed should be high enough to handle it. I just need the time to rig something up and try it out.
Thanks Steve, for the Molex Pico-SPOX connector reference.
I did use a Ser2 for last weekend's layout but the bent socket/broken pin issue came to mind as I was plugging up the components. Cat5 cabling may be the best solution as I have a large collection of patch cables of various lengths. I already use DB9s for pre-LCS components so I don't want to mix those with LCS PDI connections.
cjack posted:L & N posted:The spacing looks right, but the housings differ from the Lionel ones.
Has anyone actually tried these housings? They look to be missing the slots on the sides of the female housing and there is no ridge line on the plugs.
I think I like the conversion to the Ethernet housings idea. I have had housings pull off the sensor tracks. Not destructively, but had to be carefully put back on.
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