9v Power Functions Overlay Problems

[SD100]

For my LUG layouts, I've been trying to integrate the Power Functions IR Receiver so that we can stop the train from wherever instead of having someone constantly manning the 9v controller... I'm trying to follow the setup listed in:

But I'm running into some problems. Using a Power Functions train motor wired to a 9v train motor, only the PF motor works... And if I wire an earlier RC motor (8866) instead to the 9v motor, they both function, but only at half speed. I can't figure out what I'm missing here...

I suspect maybe the IR receiver? It does not say V2 on it so it may be V1 but they were all ordered around the time PF was discontinued, and the same IR Receivers have been running 2 PF train motors fine.

I'd appreciate any insight, thanks.

SD

[JopieK]

I suspect or the overcurrent/heat protection kicks in or the receiver is faultive. It can be a combination of both of course.

Philippe has the most extensive information about the electronics: https://philohome.com/pfrec/pfrec.htm

This might also be of use: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ql2Eu88BrVA

[Toastie]

5 hours ago, SD100 said:

Using a Power Functions train motor wired to a 9v train motor, only the PF motor works...

It would be good to see a diagram/photograph of how you wired the different configurations.

When they are in parallel, both motors should run, at least without load ...

Best,
Thorsten

[1963maniac]

Here is a topic I found very helpful. Especially pay attention to "Ultraviolet" where he shows the special wire for the IR controller to be used with 9volt and correct polarity. There is excellent information here!!

[Toastie]

1 hour ago, 1963maniac said:

Here is a topic I found very helpful. Especially pay attention to "Ultraviolet" where he shows the special wire for the IR controller to be used with 9volt and correct polarity. There is excellent information here!!

@1963maniac - there seems to be a missing link in your post?

Best,
Thorsten

[1963maniac]

OOps! Sorry, here is the link: 

 

[dr_spock]

Do you have a picture or two of your wiring setup?  Which types of wires are you using?

[zephyr1934]

On 8/4/2023 at 1:10 AM, SD100 said:

For my LUG layouts, I've been trying to integrate the Power Functions IR Receiver so that we can stop the train from wherever instead of having someone constantly manning the 9v controller... I'm trying to follow the setup listed in:

Why not simply build a powered up motor to turn the dial on the 9v controller? (grin, both joking and seriously).

 

If your primary goal is only to be able to stop all trains in an emergency,  a much cheaper solution would be to buy a wireless power switch. Plug the 9v controller into it (or the power strip with all of the controllers) and plug that into the wall. You can then carry the wireless switch to cut power in case of emergency. I did this back in the days when my club put on large 9v layouts in case a rambunctious kid got to the tracks.

[SD100]

I have everything wired exactly as listed in the topic I posted, I am using all Lego PF wires, except when I use the 9v wires to run a RC motor, and the only change there is the 9v wire running from the 9v motor to the RC motor. So the problem does seem to be my IR reciever if I look at all the available information. I would like to find a Lego solution but perhaps zephyr's suggestion is best currently

 

[1963maniac]

Philo's home page on IR receivers: https://www.philohome.com/pfrec/pfrec.htm#:~:text=V2 receiver can deliver almost,allow me to reach it. 

[dr_spock]

A LEGO solution could be using LEGO Mindstorms to turn the controller knob or press the powerbar switch with its servo motors upon receiving a command through wifi or bluetooth or IR.