Introduction to the Digitrax SE8C
 The
Digitrax Signaling System is organized around the concept of “security
elements” which are similar to what U.S. prototype railroads call
“plants.” The Digitrax SE8C signal decoder displays aspects for
up to 32 heads for 8 individual security elements (plants) using
either a LocoNet Throttle or a computer with compatible software.
When used with associated occupancy detectors and compatible software,
the SE8C can be set up to protect the turnout as shown by the example
below. The SE8C decodes switch commands from a throttle or associated
software so that the appropriate aspects are displayed on the signal
heads.
Each security
element is made up of three legs designated A, B, & C. Every
piece of track on your layout can be broken down into security elements
to describe how each detection section connects to the other sections
on your layout.
A to B, A to C, B to A & C to A are the only possible connections,
based on turnout position. B to C is not possible.
Occupancy
detection is required for any signaling system to function. Occupancy
detection inputs can be handled by any LocoNet compatible occupancy
detector (Any BDL16 Series Occupancy Detectors or BD1 Occupancy
Detectors used with DS54s will work).
Transponding
is not needed for the Digitrax Signaling System.
 The
SE8C sends its output to the signal driver to drive the signal
heads. Each SE8C has 8 sets of signal drivers, each capable of
driving a set of signal masts. Each set of masts can have up to
four heads and each head can have up to four different lamps or
a multi-color searchlight. The heads may be on separate single
masts, dual masts, or gantries. Each mast has its own signal driver.
In practice, each set of signal masts usually corresponds to the
track controlled by a single security element.
The SE8C
signal decoder and occupancy detector are connected to LocoNet
so that all security elements on the layout can communicate with
each other as the occupancy of each detection section of track
changes. Since the Digitrax Signal System communicates through
LocoNet, it does not need DCC to work. The SE8C signal decoders
and BDL16 Series occupancy detectors can communicate directly
with other LocoNet devices on the layout, they do not need a command
station for this communication. This means that they can be used
on non LocoNet DCC systems and DC systems where LocoNet is added
to support signaling.
The SE8C
lets you control signals manually from your Digitrax throttles
or automatically through LocoNet compatible computer software
such as Railroad & Company, WinLok and others.
For
more information on the SE8C and accessories please click here
to visit the Digitrax web site.
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