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Reply to "Using an optocoupler to connect insulated rail to input pin of shift register"

Randy thank you for the detailed description on how you achieved your block detection. That is very interesting regarding your RS485 problem. I currently have a test setup with Raspberry Pi and Arduino using RS485. I'm using shields for both from Linksprite. The distance is very very short, but working very well. For points across my layout I plan on building my own Arduino Shields or breakout PCB's using the OSH PCB service. I may just buy more of the shields form Linksprite or just add my own chip to my shields/breakouts, but will use the schematic for their shield as a template. 

Okay, back to the topic at hand. So when doing block detection with DC. Would that screw with the TMCC signal? Also, how would you setup the actual block? Would you isolate both outside rails? Then just add both AC ground and DC ground to the outside rail? Would an RC circuit still be required for Opt Amp? 

Professor Chaos I'm no electrical expert, but how would one size all the components for the RC circuit if using an AC source for the block detection? The only problem I fear is if I ran conventional trains, would they not be detected in the block as JGL mentioned because of the variable AC voltage? I pretty much run in command 98% of the time, but may want to run some of my post war trains on the layout every once and awhile. Do you have any problem with the TMCC/Legacy Signal? I'm assuming that you are just isolating the outside rail for the block. 

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