Use of the intelligent train number display and a single contact per block

[AlfK]

Hello,

I am trying to compare this software with another (not named for obvious reasons) and thus I am comparing each programme for performance before deciding which one to go with.This might be a stupid question but after reading the lengthy WDP manual I have come across the route section and using the 'Intelligent train number display' option, and am hoping it can be setup as in the other software, thus,

I am using the Ecos CS with Lifftinski s88 feedback modules - One contact assigned to each block, and in the other software it is possible to stop a train in a block that has only one occupancy feedback connected to it using some offset of braking and stopping points, which then uses the programmes arithmetic to brake a train at a certain defined point in the block, and stop it at a fixed point (at a station or signal).

Could anyone help me setup my system to get WDP to achieve this similar level of stopping accuracy that the other program seems to be able to achieve (but I am finding it is still rather hit and miss so hence trying WDP).

Thanks in advance if anyone should offer me any help.

Alf

[Stefan Lersch]

Hello Alf,

yes, with the intelligent train number display it is possible to use only one contact in a block. WDP does the same as the other software and calculates the stop point.

However we do not recommend the use of only one contact per block. Because you will soon find out that not all of the locos will stop exactly where they should. This is not a subject of the software but of the hardware: your locos. The problem is that the locos are not precisely enough to stop at all times exactly at the same place. That starts with the temperature of the motor as only one example. Here the other softwares behave the same because we are talking about physics.

We recommend at least two contacts. WDP calculates the stop point when the first contact of the intelligent train number display is reached. If there is another or even more contacts WDP will recalculate at any new contact. If it finds out that the loco slows down too slowly or too fast WDP will interact and correct this. This is what some of the other softwares don't do.

[AlfK]

Hello Stephan,

Thank you for taking time to help me with advice re. whether I can setup my WDP test loop for single feedback contact operation - at least I now know it is possible (although, as you say not recommended). I completely understand what you say about differences in individual train performance differences, but that aside I would like to pursue it further so as to have a direct comparison with which to make my final decision.

To that end would it be possible, as I am struggling with the manual on this topic, for you be able to assist me in setting up the distances for the intelligent train number display based on my simple 4 block test loop I have managed to setup? How about if I attached my WDP file (if that is possible as am not sure where the file(s) are(is) kept on my PC)?

Regards,
Alf

[Stefan Lersch]

Helle Alf,

sure I can help you there. Doing it the first time is not so easy. But it's not that complicated. To append your backup close the WDP main program and start the WDP maintenance. Make a backup but without the pictures and without the symbols. Chose the zip format and than you can attach it here.

But first there are some basics that need to be done. First you need to draw your layout and insert the  regular train number displays. Each train number display should be followed by a signal. Then you need to make routes from one TND to the signal behind the next TND.

With this done you can let your first trains let run half autmatically. Now you can change a TND into a intelligent (i)TND. Here I can help you.

[AlfK]

Hello Stefan,

I have already drawn and setup my test loop within WDP (apart from as you say, "Then you need to make routes from one TND to the signal behind the next TND"), as this is the bit I am having difficulty doing.

Also when I first tried to use the WDP maintenance option I saw others on this forum mention, I posted to ask why I hadn't this option listed as installed, and was told (quite bruskly at the time I thought for my first posting) it was because I had installed the Demo version (as my profile message below my posting now says I am using). So how do I zip up the right files for you please?

PS. I am an IT professional by 'day job' so only need pointing to the location on my PC where WDP keeps its layout files.

[Stefan Lersch]

Hello Alf,

let's do one step after the other. The first very useful thing I need is simply a screenshot of your layout. Please go to the layout editor and make a screenshot there so I can see the numbers of the feedback contacts. I'd like to make sure it is correct.  Also I need it to show you how to make a route. After that we care about the iTND.


 In the meantime I try to find out which files need to be zipped.

[AlfK]

Here is a screencapture of my test loop with the feedbacks I have assigned being shown.

Thanks for the continued help Stefan.

[Stefan Lersch]

Hello Alf,

you should change two things:
1) Switch the green signals to red. This is just a matter of view and not functional. But the default of the signals is red.
2) Delete all arrows and place a regular track there. Of cause you can put arrows there but then you can't use the automatic recording of the routes. WDP wouldn't find a route automatically and you either have to create the routes manually or use jump marks. As for the first steps into WDP I recommend to omit the arrows. You can change that later easily.

Open the route editor and start the assistant. Follow the instructions. The start point of the route should be at least one field before the FND. The end point should be the signal behind the next FND. Let's make a route in your example from 11 to 12. There is a mistake between the FND 11 and the following signal. That piece of track has to have 11, too.

So click on the track left to the FND 11 to mark the start of the route. Then click on the signal left of the FND to mark the end of the route. Do not use the track between the signal and the turnout!

Save the route and try it! The loco should start at 11 and stop rather immediatly, just when it reaches 12. For there are no other contacts between 11 and 12 and we don't have an iTND yet this behavior is correct.

Of cause we can tell WDP to stop later but this we can do later. Just make this route and try it.

If the loco behaves as I have written we can take the second step.

[AlfK]

Thanks Stefean,

Before I set too with your suggestions can I clarify following:

1. How do I startup the Route Assistant?

2. What does FND stand for?

Regards, Alf.

[Stefan Lersch]

Hello Alf,

FND is a mistake. It should be a TND, a train number display. Don't ask me why I typed the wrong abbreviation.

You will find the route assistant in the route editor. Currently I don't have WDP within reach so if you don't find it let me have a look tonight where exactly it is.