Methods for Automatic Braking
Automatic
Braking an engine with a DCC Decoder installed can be accomplished via several
different methods depending on the Manufacturer and the series of the decoder.
When
in an isolated section of track, depending on the decoder, receives one of the
above signals the decoder can be set to activate braking for any engine in that
isolated section of track. Braking momentum is controlled by setting CV 4 to the
desired rate.
1.
The
Set Speed Zero Packet method should work on any DCC decoder.
Advantage-works with all decoders-uses CV4 for braking rate.
Disadvantage-requires a dedicated power booster and no other commands can
be transmitted to the engine when active.
2.
The
Asymmetric DCC method applies a slightly reduced voltage DCC packet to one rail.
Advantage-no dedicated booster is required-when
active equipment in the braking section can still receive commands-braking can
be controlled by rate or distance.
Disadvantage-currently
only Lenz Gold
decoders
and maybe Zimo?? decoders recognize this method.
3.
The
Analog DC method replaces the DCC track power with Analog DC power.
Advantage-works on decoders that recognize NMRA RP 9.2.4 DC conversion.
(most decoders)-no dedicated booster is required.
Disadvantage-no other
commands can be transmitted to the engine when active.
DCC-BitSwitch
products are compatible with any of the above methods.
The BitSwitch Brake Generator is
the least expensive method and can be ordered in either the Asymmetric Version
or the Analog DC version.
DCCBitSwitch
also offers a Set Speed Zero Packet Generator that is addressable by throttle
for On/Off.
