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Automatic polarity switching. Short-circuit-free operation. – The DiMAX Reverse Loop Module
Imagine your train leaving the station, making its way through the garden and returning a little later from the opposite direction – without having to run the locomotive around the train or reverse. A reverse loop makes precisely this possible and opens up new possibilities for your track layout: as a turning loop at the end of a branch line, for example, or hidden behind planting. To turn this idea into effortless operating enjoyment, the DiMAX Reverse Loop Module automatically takes care of the necessary polarity switching.
Reverse loops add variety to garden railway operations: a train travels through the loop and returns in the opposite direction. Electrically, however, this creates a particular challenge: the two rails meet with opposite polarities at the transition. Without appropriate isolation and polarity switching, a short circuit would result.
The 8157001 DiMAX Reverse Loop Module switches the polarity automatically – and enables short-circuit-free operation when used with sensor tracks. This allows you to concentrate on running your trains while the module ensures the correct polarity.
Switching before a short circuit occurs
With conventional short-circuit detection, polarity switching is triggered by a brief short circuit as the train crosses the insulated gap. By contrast, the DiMAX Reverse Loop Module can use sensor tracks to detect whether the polarity needs to be adjusted and switch it before a short circuit occurs.
This reduces stress on the digital command station and the electronics in your locomotives and rolling stock. It also prevents the arcing damage to wheels and rails caused by short circuits – helping ensure reliable operation and preserve your rolling stock over the long term.
A true 8-amp continuous current rating for your garden railway
The DiMAX Reverse Loop Module is designed to handle a true 8 amps continuously. This rating represents its continuous current switching capacity, rather than just a brief peak load. This makes the module ideally suited to powerful garden railway locomotives with multiple motors, as well as trains hauled by multiple locomotives. Power is supplied by the connected digital command station or booster.
For digital operation, the module can be used with NMRA/DCC-compatible digital systems. An integrated soft-start function also assists when powering up the digital layout: if a train is standing across an insulated gap, the module can establish the correct polarity and energize the isolated section after a short delay.
Flexible operating modes for different layouts
In addition to short-circuit-free operation with sensor tracks, the module also supports triggering via track contacts. Alternatively, conventional operation with short-circuit detection is possible. Both methods can also be combined: if a sensor contact is not detected due to dirt, for example, the additionally enabled short-circuit detection can trigger the polarity change.
To operate trains through several reverse loops simultaneously, use sensor operation with short-circuit detection disabled and a separate module for each reverse loop. This opens up further possibilities for varied operation with multiple trains.
Also suitable for wye junctions and analog layouts
The module is not limited to conventional reverse loops. At wye junctions, it also handles the necessary polarity switching within an appropriately isolated track section.
It can also be used on analog layouts, which requires an additional power supply. In analog operation, the polarity of the main track is reversed, and the reverse loop is always traversed in the same direction. The relevant wiring examples and requirements are described in the instruction manual.
Sensor track kit included
A kit for four sensor tracks is included, providing the components needed for detection at the transitions.
When planning your layout, make sure the isolated section is long enough: a train with vehicles that pick up track power or have conductive metal wheels must fit entirely within this section without bridging both ends simultaneously. For garden railway use, the module should also be installed in a dry, sheltered location.
Whether you have a compact reverse loop or an extensive garden railway layout, the DiMAX Reverse Loop Module 8157001 combines automatic polarity switching, a true 8-amp continuous current rating and flexible applications – for greater enjoyment when running your trains.
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