Hi Tony's, I recently saw a Larry Puckett YouTube video using some DCC Concepts block detection sensors, and IPDigital switch motor, and an older PSX-AR in reverse loop to automatically throw the turnout. I was unsuccessful.

I was looking at the PSXX-AR and PSXX combination. I see in the manual that the PSXX-AR states “Automates Reverse Loop Turnouts”. Are there any diagrams that illustrates this?

I’m using the newer Peco Unifrog turnout with a DCC Concepts Cobalt Ip Digital switch motor. I do have Circuitron Tortoise motors at my disposal if preferred.

Thanks, Donald P.

Both the PSXX-AR and PSXX-ARSC feature auto throw, no detection hardware is required:

  • The AR automatically lines up switch machines when the track phase/polarity is reversed.
  1. When the loco crosses the isolated gaps exiting the loop, a short circuit occurs
  2. The AR detects the short and reverses track phase [resolving the short circuit]
    • If there is a short within the AR reverse track zone, the AR acts as a circuit breaker, cutting power to the reverse track zone
  3. At the same time, the AR reverses polarity to the Tortoise machine, aligning the turnout automatically for the oncoming train
  4. Cut your gaps a distance far enough from the turnout to allow the Tortoise to throw before the train occupies the turnout

The Tortoise switch machine can also be controlled with standard DCC Accessory Commands, push button, & SPDT toggle switch:


Manual Toggle Control For Tortoise Turnout

Manual Toggle Control For Kato Turnout
Manual Toggle Control For Atlas Solenoid

Manual Toggle Control For Peco Solenoid