Skip to main content

Reply to ""flip flopping" a switch"

4 channel relay module 12V set to LOW trigger trolley rev1

I think I might have a functionally identical 12V DC 4-relay module like the one you identify from Amazon.  I got mine on eBay for less than $3 shipped.  In any case, this shows how to perform the latching relay function using non-latching relays.  Note that only 3 of the 4 relays on the module are used.  This assumes your switch machine operates by momentarily applying the outer-rail voltage to the SwM A or SwM B terminals to fire the appropriate A or B solenoid coil.

dual%2520coil%2520latching%2520relay%2520method

I don't know what track system you have, but I wired up MTH Realtrax sections and a Realtrax turnout-switch.  The short sections of track with white-paint labeled IA, IB, IC in the photo below are isolated outer-rails.  You can't see it in the photo, but the outer rail was cut with a hacksaw to create the mini-island of outer rail for bench testing/simulation of insulated-rail triggering.

alternating trolley using DIY latching relay

And here it is in action!  

What I tried to show is the elegance of the latching relay.  That is, you can have "dirty" track with intermittent trigger contacts and resulting multiple triggers - the latching function cleans this all up.

Attachments

Images (3)
  • 4 channel relay module 12V set to LOW trigger trolley rev1
  • dual%2520coil%2520latching%2520relay%2520method
  • alternating trolley using DIY latching relay
Last edited by stan2004

OGR Publishing, Inc., 1310 Eastside Centre Ct, Suite 6, Mountain Home, AR 72653
800-980-OGRR (6477)
www.ogaugerr.com

×
×
×
×
×