LocoIO
LocoIO is another DIY project that is documented on this Web site. LocoIO is a hardware device that is a building block for people wanting to utilize the Loconet. LocoIO is the motherboard, it requires additional circuitry to do productive work. It uses the same basic design as LocoBuffer. It is configurable by setting values into SV registers in the PIC processor. There are 16 real ports that can be configured and in the future there will also be virtual ports and more functionality (including turntable control). Basically what this device does is converts a 0 or +5 volt signal to a Loconet message and/or converts a Loconet message to a 0 or +5 volt signal. One use for this is to allow you to build a remote CTC panel. LocoIO requires a connection to the Loconet. You will need a cable to connect the LocoIO to the Loconet. This cable will have 6 pin RJ12 connectors on each end. You will also need a power supply for the LocoIO. Normally people use a “wallwart”. This is a small black transformer that plugs into the wall outlet and has 2 wires coming out of it. Specifications for this are in the documentation. They can be purchased at most electronics and computer stores. The last piece is the CTC panel that you build. It can be as simple as a panel that has a few LED’s and/or switches. The LED’s will light or shut off when they see a message on the Loconet telling them to change state. This message would come from a device on the Loconet like a block detector. The switches can be configured to throw turnouts (assuming you have devices on the layout to do this – like a DS54). To configure LocoIO you would use a program like RRCntl or DecoderPro. Another use for LocoIO is to build a traffic light. For instructions on building a traffic light go here.
To read more about LocoIO go here.
To see a picture of LocoIO click here.
Kits are available. If you need an assembled unit, please read the Kits page.
If you have a PIC programmer, download the latest PIC hex code here.
If you don’t have a PIC programmer, download the latest PIC hex code here.
To read a tutorial on configuring the SV’s in LocoIO click here.
To get a sample SV chart click here.
Eagle 4.03 schematic and board layout.
For a Power Supply Regulation Modification for LocoIO “A” go here.
http://www.locobuffer.com/LocoIO/
