AutoControls Videos & Photos

Other Railroad Videos:

• This page lists only "automatic control" videos.
• The Track2 RailVideos.org page has a more-condensed-format list of ALL the railroad videos on the Track2.com web pages. Some of these videos are also linked from the following web pages: 2007 East Coast Large Scale Train Show videos . |. SusquehannaSGaugers.com . |. LooseTies.com Archive Page

 

A. **INDEX** of ALL Videos On This Page, ORDERED by number

The links in this list, take you to the video's description, below on this page

Video #602 [below] -- (1/2009) Subscribing To The Yahoo [AutoControls] Group  Video #632 [below] -- (5/1992) Automatic Route Selection Video #636 [below] -- (5/1992) How-It-Works -- 2-track Automatic Yard Demo  Video #637 [below] -- (5/1992) 2-track Auto. Yard on Multi-Level Display Video #644 [below] -- (6/1996) 4-track Zellner Yard Video #653 [below] -- (10/2005) 4-track Zellner Yard Operating On Ingram's Basement Wall Video #654 [below] -- (12/2006) 2-track Automatic Yard (Model 205, aka Model 165) [below] Video #655 [below] -- (3/2007) 2-track Automatic Yard (Latest Design Model 206)  Video #656 [below] -- (4/2007) Mark Anderman, April 2007, Susque. S Gaugers Steamup, Williamsport Pa Video #658 [below] -- (4/2008) S Ga. Automatic Block Demo, Using RRC SIM Video #659 [below] -- (3/2009) S Ga. Automatic Passing Siding, AF Switches & Automotive Relays Video #660 [below] -- (5/2009) S Ga. Automatic Switching Block, AF Switches & Automotive Relays Video #661 [below] -- (8/2009) An overview of DCC-Bitswitch and DCC by DCC-Bitswitch designer Fred Hughes Video #662 by Tim Heffernan [below] (2/2010) Shows Model 206 Automatic Yard (Latest Design) operating 3 trains on outdoor layout in Long Island NY Video #663 [below] (4/2010) Shows Model 206 Automatic Yard operating at East Coast Large Scale Train Show Video #664 [below] (10/2011) Demo of RR Concepts StationMaster Newest Video --> Video #665 [below] (11/2011) Anderman Flyer automatic passing side and associated display Video #804 [below] (12/2010) Demo of NCE Mini Panel doing auto. control of N & HO circles, and G ga point-to-point. 2nd Newest Video --> Video #805 [below] (11/2011) Demo of NCE Mini Panel controlling an S gauge train running point to point on 2 alternate routes.

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B. Suggested Viewing Order, LargeScale Videos

Videos are listed in suggested viewing order. On 1/8/09, videos were renunumbered to "600 series" numbers. Unused numbers are reserved for possible future conversions from VHS tape.

 

1. Video #664 below demos the RR Concepts StationMaster in S gauge, but these units are actually made for Largescale.
   
   
   
2. Video #602 Subscribing To The Yahoo [AutoControls] Group (added 1/6/09)
   

   The "About The Listserver" web page has the details of the new [AutoControls] Yahoo Group we are trying to start. This two-part video covers the same information.

   Vimeo Pt 1/2, 14 min - discusses the following topics: (1) Intro, (2) Subscribing, (2b) Moderator's Opinions, (2c) Reliability Issues, Smaller Scales, (3) Address, (4) Email Sorting, (5) Subjects Included, (6) Subjects Excluded . Vimeo Pt 2/2, 10 min - discusses the following topics: (7) Navigating, (8) LstSrv Web Page, (9) Yahoo Grp Home Pg, (10) Links, (11) Attachments, (12) Photos. YouTube Pt 1 - Truncated at 10 min - discusses the following topics: (1) Intro, (2) Subscribing, (2b) Moderator's Opinions, (2c) Reliability Issues, Smaller Scales, (3) Address, (4) Email Sorting.

   
   
   
3. Video #636 How-It-Works -- 2-track Automatic Yard Demo (Model 202)

   	This shows a older 1992 design Model 202 (aka 163). It demonstrates in detail, the different ways a 2-track yard can be operated, and how it works. (Videotaped 1992, 25 min, 38 MB) . . . Quicktime  (The older Model 163 operates the same way as the newest Model 206. The parts are just arranged differently.) LOGIC Diagram for this 2-track yard
   YouTube Part 1/3 - demonstrates 'Mode 1' de-powered and 'Mode 2' Automatic Passing Siding controlling 2 trains. YouTube Part 2/3 - demonstrates 'Mode 3' Automatic Block controlling 2 trains, and 'Mode 4' Automatic Switching Block controlling 3 trains (NORMAL mode of operation). YouTube Part 3/3 - demonstrates 'Mode 5' Automatic Switching Block controlling 5 trains (overloaded 'juggling' mode).

   
   
   
4. Video #655 -- 2-track Automatic Yard (Latest Design Model 206)
   

   	[ PLANS to build the Model 206 ] The first part of the video shows the Model 206 Control Unit (designed Feb 2007), and the 2nd part shows the Model 205 (aka Model 165) which was designed in 1994. Both are shown operating 3 trains on a LooseTies.com display layout. (Videotaped Mar 2007 & Dec 2006, 16 min, 23 MB)
   Quicktime . . . . . YouTube (last 6 min cut off, due to 10 min limit) (This model 206 is almost the same as the earlier design Model 205, except a slightly different parts arrangement, and has a 2nd rheostat,)

   
   
   
   
5. Video #663 --  -- 2-track Automatic Yard

   This video shows the same Model 206 unit as shown in the previous video, operating March 2010 at East Coast Large Scale Train Show on Washington, Virginia, & Maryland GRS's display layout. The unit is shown operating 3 trains, PLUS a Lionel handcar which runs in front of one of the trains.  (The audio is all background music, no narration.)  YouTube Ver d      Vimeo Ver c

   
   
   
6. Video #644 -- 4-track Zellner Yard (Models 401 & Model 402)
   

   	[ PLANS to build the Model 402 ] The 2-track control unit can be "extended" to a 3 or 4-track unit. This video shows the basic 2-track control unit, plus a "helper control unit", operating a 4-track yard. (Videotaped Feb 1996, 22 min, 33 MB) ((Model 402 is the same as Model 401, except the control unit is one-piece instead of two separate pieces.))
   Quicktime . . . . . YouTube (last 12 min cut off, due to 10 min limit)

   
   
   
7. Video #632 -- Automatic Route Selection
   

   	This video demonstrates "Automatic Route Selection" on a display layout, using LGB magnets on the bottom of the locos which activate track contacts, which in turn operate track switches and relays, to send trains on two different routes. (Videotaped 1992, 16 min, 24 MB)
   Quicktime . . . . . YouTube (last 6 min cut off, due to 10 min limit)

   
   
   
   
8. Video #662 by Tim Heffernan, Long Island NY
   

   	This video demonstrates a  Model 206 Automatic Switching Block operating 3 largescale trains on a loop on an OUTDOOR layout.  This video may be the first-ever recorded video of a Bachmann 10-wheeler being SUCCESSFULLY operated on one of these 3-train automatic block systems.  We've tried them, but we have always had problems with Bachmann trains stalling and uncoupling.
   . . . . . YouTube (3 min)

   
   
   

   C. DCC Videos Demos using primarily Digital Command Control (DCC)

   
   
   
9. Video #661 -- DCC-BitSwitch Overview by Fred Hughes
   

   This three-part YouTube video features DCC-BitSwitch designer and  owner Fred Hughes, giving an overview of both DCC-BitSwitch and DCC systems in general.   Fred talks about the 3 ways to automatically brake (stop) a DCC train: 1) analog DC, 2) set speed zero command, and 3) asymmetric DCC. Fred also discusses his experiences and reasons for preferring North Coast Engineering (NCE) DCC systems, and also talks about some advantages of Lenz and Zimo decoders. (Videotaped 2009)

   YouTube Part 1/3 - (1) Introduction, (2) Overview of DCC-BitSwitch, and  (3) Fred's views on DCC systems. YouTube Part 2/3  - covers (4) about the NCE cab, (5) DCC overview, (6) Automatic Braking-3 methods, (6) Method 1-Analog DCC, and (7) Method 2-Set Speed Zero. YouTube Part 3/3 - covers (8) Method 3-Asymmetric DCC, (9) Lenz decoders for push/ pull operation, (10) custom track plans, (11) other DCC-BitSwitch videos, and (12) photos of installed DCC-BitSwitch layouts. Track2.com/info/661 - This is a 'forwarding page' with links to all seven (7) DCC-BitSwitch-related videos referenced in the above video.

   
   
   
10. Video #804, NCE Mini Panel Demo, with N, S, and Largescale
    

    View video on Vimeo (42 min) View video on YouTube (42 min) View AutoControls PDF file that documents commands used Mark Schutzer's 3/4/2010 PDF file, annotated version of the NCE Mini Panel Tech. Ref. Manual

    This video shows a demo of an NCE (North Coast Engineering) DCC (Digital Command Control) Mini Panel, used for simple automatic control of a simple DCC model railroad display. The demo layout consists of a small loop of N gauge, a small loop of S gauge, a LargeScale train running point to point, plus a stationary HO engine with headlight and flashing rooftop strobe light.

    
    


11. -
    Video #805, NCE Mini Panel Point-To-Point
    

    View video on Vimeo (28 min) Same video on YouTube This display can also be seen operating in Video 665 below. View AutoControls PDF file that documents commands used

    This video shows an NCE (North Coast Engineering) DCC (Digital Command Control) Mini-Panel, ncontrolling an S gauge train running point to point on 2 alternate routes. This little layout is intended to be part of a larger holiday display layout.

    
    
    
12. Note:  Video #660 below in Section F ("S Gauge Auto. Switching Block") uses DCC track power & engines w/decoders, but uses the "old style" on/off blocks to stop the engines.
    
    

    D. Previous LargeScale Videos These are older videos, that have been partially superseded by the above videos.

    
    
    
13. Video #637 -- 2-track Auto. Yard on Multi-Level Display (Model 202)

    	This shows a Model 202 (aka 163), operating on a multi-level display layout. Video #655 more or less replaces this video. But this video shows LGB Moguls on an elevated loop, and shutting down the siding -- which Video #655 does not. (Videotaped 1992, 12 min, 18 MB)
    Quicktime . . . . . YouTube (last 2 min cut off, due to 10 min limit)

    
    
    
14. Video #654 -- 2-track Automatic Yard (Model 205, aka Model 165)

    	Quicktime (12 min, 17 MB) Videotaped Dec 2006 Video #655 more or less replaces this video. The newer Video #655 has this footage, plus footage of the new Model 206 design.
    This video shows a Model 205 (aka 165) operating 3 trains on a LooseTies.com display layout. (The model 205 is almost the same as the current Model 206, except a slightly different parts arrangement and has only a single rheostat,)

    
    
    
15. Video #653 -- 4-track Zellner Yard On Basement Wall (Models 401 & Model 402)

    This short video shows the 4-track yard operating on a basement TEST layout. Video #644 more or less replaces this video. (Videotaped Oct 2005, 3 min, 5 MB) Quicktime

    
    
    

    E. LargeScale Photos

    
    
    
16. Display Photos
    

    Model 402 - 4-track Yard (Video #644) Model 206  2-track Yard (Video #655) Older version Model 205 (aka Model 165) 2-track Yard (Video #654)

    
    
    
17. Other Photos
    

    	Flat Rocks & Goose Creek RR, 4-track Zellner Yard, Hendersonville NC, added 8/2005
    	Ted Ansley's Flickr Album - describes contruction of two control units for indoor layout

    
    
    

    F. S Gauge Videos & Photos

    
    
    
18. -
     Video #664 -- RR Concepts StationMaster

    Use the link track2.com/info/664 for a screenshot from the iMovie editor -- showing the CONTENTS of this video.  This video shows the RR Concepts "StationMaster" in operation using S gauge trains, but it works with just about any gauge, as long as the current is DC current.  This video shows "automatic timed station stops" for 1 train, and "automatic block control" to control 2 trains on the same loop.  The stationmaster also does more advanced operations, not shown in this video

    YouTube Part 1/4  Demos of Automatic timed station stop, with no block; one and 2 station stops. YouTube Part 2/4  Overview of StationMaster, and programming procedure. YouTube Part 3/4  Demos station stopp using a block, 1 lap around, 2 laps around, and restarting train by pushing a button. YouTube Part 4/4  Demos 2-train operation.

    
    
    
    
19. -
     Video #665 -- Anderman Flyer Auto. Passing Siding Display

    	This video shows the AndermanFlyer.com reed switch and relay system for controlling American Flyer S-gauge switches, to operate an automatic passing siding.  This layout was part of the 2011 Toy Train Expo in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.  Notice the great scenery that Mark's wife Doris created for a layout that was operated just 2 days.
    View video on YouTube (9 min) The automatic point to point display operating in the center, is discussed in Video #805 above)

    
    
    


20. Video #660 -- S Ga. Automatic Switching Block  (Project 242)

    Using AF Switches & Automotive Relays. This is the same 2-track unit as described below for Video #659, but it now has the DPDT relay added to control the 3rd train. * Watch this video first, then #658 for more details of the block, then #659 for more details of the passing siding. (Project 208, recorded April 2009)

    Vimeo Part 1/3 covers (1) Intro, (2) Principles of 3-train operation, (3) Why do this, (4) review of system, (5) Observing operation from rear of yard.. Vimeo Part 2/3 covers (6) Attaching magnets to rolling stock, (7) Mode 2: Automatic block only (2 trains) (8) Mode 3: Automatic siding only (2 trains), (9) Mode 4: Block & siding both off (1 train) (operating like a simple piece of track). Vimeo Part 3/3 covers (10) Using DCC for this video, (11) Why blocks when using DCC, (12) Ramping up & down with DCC, (13) Possible changes for future units, (14) same system, using 3 diesels, (15) Bloopers. You can also download the original 640x480 Quicktime Video from this site. Use fullsize video directory-- look for "qvv660....." (may not work due to overloading).

    
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21. Video #658 -- S Ga. Single-Track Automatic Block (Project 142)

    Using RR-Concepts SIM (Switching Interface Module). Shows an S gauge automatic block, controlling 2 trains on the same track (recorded Apr 2008, 26 min, 41 MB) . . . Quicktime

    YouTube Part 1/3 covers (1) Switching Interface Module, (2) Reed Switches (sensors), and (3) Magnets. YouTube Part 2/3 covers (4) Sensor Activation, (5) Wiring Diagram, (6) Block Locations, (7) Sensor Locations, and (8) Operation with 2 can-motor engines. YouTube Part 3/3 covers (8 cont) Operation (continued), (9) Operation w/1 vintage Flyer engine and 1 can-motor engine, and (10 Operation w/2 vintage Flyer engines.

    
    
    
22. Video #659 -- S Ga. Automatic Passing Siding (Project 242)

    Using AF Switches & Automotive Relays. Shows an S gauge, 2-track automatic passing siding. The system uses magnets on the bottom of the locos/cars to activate a reed switch, which activates an automotive relay, which then throws the American Flyer turnouts. Automotive relays are used to handle the large amounts of current (estimated about 6 amps) required to operate a pair of American Flyer switches. (Project 208, recorded Nov 2008)

    Vimeo Part 1/3 covers (1) Intro, (2) Overview: How It Operates, (3) More Detailed Overview, (4) Depower" switches to "park" train, (5) Swap Sidings. Vimeo Part 2/3 covers (6) How It's Constructed, (7) Automotive Relays, (8) Rectifiers for Auto. Relays, (9) Magnets & Reed Switches, (10) AF Locomotive Mods, (11) Construction Comments, (12) Auto. Block Comments, (13) AC/DC Power, (14) Rheostats. Vimeo Part 3/3 covers (15) Jumper Wire for Manual Override, (16) As Copied from LargeScale, (17) Gaps in Track, (18) Would Use RR-Concepts except for large currents. You can also download the original 640x480 Quicktime Video from this site. Use fullsize video directory-- look for "qvv659....." (may not work due to overloading).

    
    
    
23. Video #656 -- S Ga. Automatic Passing Siding, (Project 241)
    
    

    Using AF Switches & AF Pressure Track Trips. Videotaped 4/1/07 by Chris Cooley and edited by Mark Anderman, at April 2007, Susque. S Gaugers Steamup, Williamsport Pa. This video shows 3 trains running automatically on the same circle of track, using an automatic control system wired up by Dennis & Corvin Oberholtzer and Mark Anderman, using stock Gilbert pressure-activated track trips & semaphore. (6 min) YouTube . . . . . .Quicktime  Comments: We believe this system could probably be modified by removing the block in the mainline, and using just the 2 blocks in the sidings. The semaphore would control power to the sidings; i.e. at about 2/3 of the way around the loop, the train on the mainline would "release" one of the trains parked on the sidings, thus maintaining spacing between trains, but without using the 3rd block on the mainline. [===] This scheme is demonstrated in the largescale Video #1 "How It Works" which shows the same arrangement in largescale.

    
    
    
24. S Ga Point to Point Computer Control  (Project 141)
    

    The project web page has several small Mpeg videos (page is on Track2 RailNet site)

•   Video 661 [above] 'DCC-BitSwitch Overview' applies to all scales.

•   Video 805 [above] shows an NCE "Mini-Panel" controlling an S gauge train running point to point on 2 alternate routes.

G. QuickTime, YouTube, Vimeo Formats



Comments re The Video Formats


You can view the videos on this page on the web. You need a broadband (high speed cable or DSL) connection. Formats: Videos may be in Quicktime format, YouTube, or Vimeo format, and some videos are in more than 1 format. Quicktime: You need to have Apple's free Quicktime Player installed. YouTube & Vimeo: These may require more bandwidth. But you can play these without having Quicktime. The YouTube & Vimeo videos (flash format) usually play in any late-version web browsers. YouTube has a 10 minute maximum length limitation, so longer videos have been either cut off at 10 minutes, or else divided into 2 or more parts.