Controllers For Model Trains

By: John Vanse

Over the past 100 years several methods of controlling electric
model trains have developed.

The first and simplest method was the use a simple variable
transformer as introduced by Lionel in 1906 to lower the
Alternating Current [AC] voltage from the wall to a lower, safer
value and allow the user to control the speed of a model
electric train by changing the amount of AC power applied to the
track. In the 1920's, Lionel included remote control reversing
switches to allow the user to control the direction of the model
train.

When Direct Current [DC] powered trains with permanent magnet
motors were introduced, a different standard was developed for
most two rail train tracks where the direction of trains were
controlled by the polarity of the DC track power applied to the
track.

In the late 1940's Lionel added a new concept of applying DC on
top of the AC track voltage to turn on and off an on-board
whistle by remote control. This concept of high frequency
transmission was introduced in the Lionel Electronic Train
Control. This system supplied ten different signals that would
control ten different remote control effects. The different high
frequency signals were superimposed on the standard AC power
when selected buttons were pressed at the control center. Each
remote engine or rail car was equipped with a receiver unit that
was tuned to the individual frequencies. When the correct high
frequency signal was transmitted, the corresponding receiver
would toggle or turn-on some remote effect.

These high frequency signals increase the ability to remotely
control various effects but they had other problems.
Transmission losses were usually high and it was critically
important to keep the track, the track joints and the wheels of
the receiving car or locomotive extremely clean. However extra
feeder wires to different parts of the track were used to
prevent signal losses and placing capacitors across the track
joints and adding inductors at the power supply and on each
accessory being used assisted in reducing signal loss and in
ensuring that all components of the model train layout operated
properly. All this additional equipment however added to the
cost, the complexity, and the maintenance for the model train
operator.

Model train manufacturers have, over the years, introduced
different methods of applying high frequency signals to the
model train track to increase the remote control capabilities
including independent train control which means that the
operator can control the speed, direction and features of a
number of different engines all on the same powered track
section. With most DC and AC systems however, the biggest
problem is that there are only a limited number of remote
control signals possible and their application is slow by modern
digital standards.

The application of digital technology uses remote control
signals to carry digital signals to decoders in the engine for
digital command control of locomotives and other accessories.

Digital Command Control (DCC) is a method of controlling
individual engines, rail cars and accessories by transmitting
digital remote control signals down the track to on-board
digital receivers and decoders in the locomotives, wagons and
other rolling stock and accessories.

DCC has been around since the 1970's but had not received wide
acceptance because of the limited technology at the time and the
difficulty and expense of installing receivers in each engine.
With developments in digital technology these problems have
diminished and over the last ten to fifteen years major model
train manufacturers have produced several different versions of
DCC. So many that unfortunately customers have been confused
about which system is best.

Fortunately, in recent times, the National Model Railroad
Association [NMRA] has established a preferred method of
transmitting and receiving digital transmissions on model train
layouts, based on the Lenz system developed in Germany and this
is recognized as the accepted standard for DCC.

Article Source: https://www.collectibles-articles.com

John Vanse has several websites for model train enthusiasts. They can all be accessed through the key site at: The Model Train Guide For more specific information about DCC visit: DCC for Model Trains

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