Test Track Using DCC-EX EX_RAIL For Automation
WHAT IS EX_RAIL
Explanation from the DCC-EX web site:
EX‑RAIL is an “EXtended Railroad Automation Instruction Language” that can easily be used to describe sequential command ‘sequences’ to automatically take place on your model layout. These sequences are defined programmatically in a simple command script file, and uploaded to the Command Station once to configure it. EX-Rail will then run automatically on EX-CommandStation startup or if trigger manually or on occurrence of the specified events.
My Plans
I’m building a separate Test Track in my family room to experiment with the features of EX-Rail, what they have available now, and what is to come in future releases. The current release is V 4.1.6. Hopefully I will be able to show you what the Dev Team is working on in a few sneak peaks before the new release.
Recently the Dev Team at DCC-EX offered a new motor shield that they developed with the help of an enthusiast that will allow the user to have both DCC & DC operate through the EX-Command Station! I now have this new motor shield and will be testing it shortly.
Where To Buy & Product Links
Amazon Storefront
Most products such as the Elegoo Mega, Arduino Motor Shield, Sunfounder LCD Screen, PCA9685, IR Sensors, Servos, and Misc. Hardware can be found on my Amazon Storefront
Makerfabs Wifi Shield
DFRobot Products
Mega Sensor Shield
Mega Shield Wiki
Buck Converters
Gravity I2C Hub
E-Bay
90wUniversal Power Supply
Home Depot
Lexan Sheet
Cost of all items in this project including misc hardware $126.00
Building The EX-RAIL Command Station
The video of me building the EX-RAIL Command Station for my Test Track. This is Part 1 for the Command Station. The software installation & the myAutomation.h sequence of events will be covered in a second video coming out shortly.
More videos will be coming in the future when more features are available that I will be playing with!
ENJOY!
DFRobot is a great place to purchase electronic devices for your Arduino projects. I have been using their products for several years like the DFPlayer Mini, DFPlayer Pro, Sensor Shield, Push Buttons, I/O Shields and more. Sign up at there web site through this affiliate link to see the products available which help me with a very small commission.
DFRobot Store
Thanks for your support!
