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RC-Link
4. Operating mode of the RC-Link
Transferring RailCom messages to the PC
The RC-Link transfers the feedback signals from a maximum of 24 local
RailCom detectors (e.g. RCD-1, RCD-2 or RCD-8) to the PC. These
RailCom messages refer clearly to a particular detector (or track
section) as the detectors are identified by addresses.
Most PC programs for model railroading support feedback by RailCom.
Depending on the features the PC software is providing the incoming
messages are displayed on the PC monitor or are used as a basis for
the automatic control of operating schedules, for example.
Transferring busy signals to the PC
Many RailCom detectors are designed to detect loads in the supervised
rail section not sending a RailCom signal, as well. The RC-Link also
transfers these pure busy signals to the PC.
Performance at a breakdown of the track voltage
When a breakdown of the track voltage occurs (e.g. after an automatic
cut-off of the track voltage after a short circuit), the detectors cannot
read out and transfer RailCom messages or busy signals to the RC-Link.
If the RC-Link would transfer the message "track section is disengaged"
to the PC in this case, failures in operational procedures and accidents
could occur.
In order to meet with this problem, the RC-Link checks via a port for
the connection to the rails if a track voltage is applied. Only when a
track voltage is applied, current disengaged reports are transferred to
the PC. In case the track voltage breaks down, the (in most cases) false
disengaged reports are suppressed and the RailCom messages last
received before the voltage breakdown are saved.
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