Using Route Control of Turnouts
My control system is designed to allow for route selection. This means that when I select a route using my Route Selection Panel I automatically set all turnouts for that route.
For example my layout has a main loop with a long passing siding that is routed via two crossovers. I can select a route that diverts a train to that passing siding and then both crossovers will be automatically set for that route.
I also have a wye track which may be set to route to either North or South. When either the North or South wye track route is selected the turnouts corresponding to this route also will be set automatically.
On my control system I have 3 ways to control my turnouts:
1. Manually using the MTH supplied controllers. See note 2.
2. Manually using separate momentary pushbuttons mounted on a separate Route Selection Panel.
3. Directly using the MTH DCS controller and MTH AIUs.
I can use any one of these methods for my layout.
Note 1: I can also select an individual turnout or crossover using the MTH DCS if necessary.
Note 2: I can also select one or the other set of crossovers or wye setting using MTH suppllied controllers.
Note 3: My MTH RealTrax turnouts also have the non-derailing feature.
For route selection I will have a Route Selection Panel that will allow me to select a color coded route and then set the route with a single pushbutton.
My Dispatcher Board (see attachment) has LEDs corresponding to each turnout position to confirm that the route has been set.
