This is the system still controlling the 5" / 3½" and 7¼" / 10¼" gauge live steam tracks at Chichester and District Society of Model Engineers . It replaced a relay based system originally done by my Grandfather. It was all built in June 1991.
I did the specification, designed and built the controller box. Nick diverted from sailing round the world (thanks Pip) to do the software and then Peter supported it. The track work was done by my Grandfather and Tony. Since then many at the club now maintain it.
This shows the complete control system. It fits in an old style keyboard case, just, if you ignore the fact it needs inch stand offs for the panel. The PSU along side powers the control system, and the signal lamps and motors out on the track.
It contains a 6303R processor with the software written in machine code.
Ever had one of those nightmares that just bring you out in cold sweat!? If there is time later I'll tell you some of those nightmares.
This mimic shows the ground level track as the outer loop. With the raised track inside. In the middle is a large button that when pressed sets everything at red and puts the barriers down for emergencies.
Steve Brown © 2001-2015. All rights reserved