Sig-naTrak -

Loco Shuttle

The DSS1 "LocoShuttle" controls automatic train movements on a LocoNet controlled railway. It provides unattended train movements under automatic control, to create "background activity" or to create part of the operating sequence. It behaves like a throttle, but with the train controls done automatically not by an operator. The LocoShuttle can drive one train at a time, and can have 4 stored sequences available for use.

"Out of the box" two simple sequences can be set up: an "End to End" shuttle and "station stop":

• In "Station Stop" mode, the train will stop at a station on a track loop. This can be every visit to the station, or it can be set to stop every n-th visit.
• In "End to End" mode, the train is shuttled between two terminus stations. At each end it stops when the train reaches an occupancy sensor, and starts again after a delay. The delay at each end i
• In "End to End" mode, the train is shuttled between two terminus stations. At each end it stops when the train reaches an occupancy sensor, and starts again after a delay. The delay at each end is programable.

More complicated sequences are possible. The LocoShuttle can control points along the route, and can wait for other events triggered by point/switch commands. This will allow more than one shuttle to interlock. The running speed of the train is set by the user when handing the train over to the LocoShuttle. Starts and stops have user programmed acceleration and deceleration to avoid sudden halts. The speed can be adjusted by the user if needed. Sound functions can be activated. This does a lot more than its DC counterparts!

The LocoShuttle has a simple user interface:

• Two buttons control selection of operating sequence, and selection of a locomotive.
• Two further buttons can be used to increase or decrease the train's running speed.
• A 4 digit display shows the sequence number, state, and current step number. Messages can scroll across the display as needed.

The LocoShuttle can be used "out of the box" with no further programming: 4 simple sequences are pre-programmed into it. If it is necessary to use different sequences, the LocoShuttle can be programmed in two ways. Simple end-to-end or "station stop" sequences can be programmed from its simple "learn" mode user interface. This needs just the use of a LocoNet throttle. More complex sequences can be PC programmed using the free "Locoanalyse" program. The unit will store up to 4 sequences, and each sequence can have 16 programmable steps.

Loconet - Compatible