"PistonBroke" a Computer Controlled Layout

[OBJack]

Jack: my rule is one train per brain.

Many decades ago, our local importer came back from a show where Hornby were showing off their new Zero-One system.  He reported on the number of crashes that their experienced demonstrator had in a few minutes.

Yep David, and even then I get flustered if the route is a little complex,  ie: not in a straight line. 

Obviously if we run our DCC layout by computer we will need software, there are a few different ones floating around now, but I decided on one called  "Train Controller"
So I bought, downloaded and installed it on my computer.
Fairly straightforward, as any install, just follow instructions. 
The software works with nearly all types of DCC system controllers, even if you have different system protocols on the same layout. ie: XPressNet system which includes Lenz products etc, or Loconet system that includes say Digitrax products.
Upshot is no matter what brand name you use to control your DCC trains, this software will accommodate it. And all systems have the required modules to to make this happen. 

Ok, if we are to control our trains with software we need to be able to make things happen with a switch, that is signals, turnouts, lights etc. Anything you want to control will need to work with by an electrical switch, and the software needs to be able to see where each train is one the layout. That's it!!

For the software to see where each train is (occupancy detection) all that you have to do is isolate your layout into sections or blocks with insulated joiners. I made most of my blocks a bit longer than my longest  train. Then the drop down wire that powers the block is run through an occupancy detection module before going back to your DCC Command Station. Each of the off the shelf modules I use, can electrically detect occupancy of up to 16 different blocks, and that happens when current is being drawn from a block by an engine.

Simple wiring of the modules into the Layout. They can be added in series to monitor up to 250 blocks. (any more is another story for another time)
   

For the turnouts I used Tortoise turnout motors and Peco electro frog turnouts. They are also electrically connected to the bus with wabbit decoders.
As seen here, with the wabbits on the left.
   

Signals also go through a switch module. 
   

And layout lights, same module different setup is all
   

Everything goes back to the Bus and so to the controller. (I don't think mine is in production any more) 
   

Then the controller is connected to the computer with a USB to complete the loop.

Simply the end result is:
We have any DCC layout
We use insulated joiners to divide layout into blocks
Each block is connected to an occupancy detecting module.
Every turnout is switched by an electric motor (Tortoise) controlled by a module (Wabbit)
All signals are controlled by a simple switch module.
All other special layout effects  eg: building lighting, is run through the same simple on/off switch module.
 Now you are done!!

A Free testing of the software can be downloaded here.  (I think.   ) There are restrictions but it may give you a bit of an idea of the possibilities

Next we will set-up to run the layout from the computer.

Jack