Remote points....????

[paul]

Hi ,I was just wondering if anyone has any tips on setting up remote points for my track layout.Is there a specific motor,battery box etc available that I need to use or has anyone on here made their own and could give me some 'point'ers ...cheers,sorry if I dont reply soon as i will be away until next thursday.

[UniqueBuilder]

Remote points? Can you express a little more what you mean? 8-|

[Freddie]

I think he means points/switches operated by remotely controlled servo-mechanisms.

There are many kinds. People essentially build the kind that fits them and/or have parts for. I'm guessing the most popular kind is the one with the motors. This uses a variation of gears and levers to connect to the point and operate it. Some of these are simple mechanisms with the internals exposed, and there are variations that are disguised as sheds or other track-side buildings. With the exception of the micro-motor (without painfully high reduction, if that is even usable), all motors can be used.

There are also pneumatic variants, with a compressor (most likely electric) and the valves located centrally, and plenty of tubing. A single cylinder at each point provides the necessary motion for switching tracks. These are also very strong, and need plenty of support to not break loose when moving. The upside to these is the mechanic simplicity, as pressure is generated centrally by the compressor, which it provides to centrally placed valves. The downside is the sheer amount of tubes necessary for bringing all this air to the cylinders.

Both has its ups and downs, pneumatic controls allows for a compact control-panel, with the associated and very cool-sounding hisses as valves are opened and closed. Electric allows computer-controll, such as the RCX, and can automatically directs trains into an empty track if the means for such is implemented. Electric also allows control from a command-center (an old technic device for controlling electric motors) or through the use of polarity switches.

Also, pneumatic has the advantage that it stops at automatically when the cylinder reaches full lock. Motors on the other hand will not stop until power is cut; and as such also need clutchgears to prevent damage.

[Hobbes]

There's also this way with 12V controls which I like a lot. But it's obviously only for people who have some of those controls left (which I happen to have :-)), unless you don't mind buying them off ebay and hook them up to some 12V power source...