September 15, 2014

Build you own Arduino-based model train controller

After long periods of hard use or storage, model train controllers can often become unreliable or simply no longer work at all. Although changing to digital control is becoming popular - this can become expensive very quickly and unnecessary for simple layouts. Enthusiast John Spencer was faced with the same dilemma when upgrading a family member's layout and thus turned to the world of Arduino to build a new controller.

With the use of our Eleven Arduino-compatible board and the HBRIDGE dual DC motor control shield, the foundation of a smooth DC train controller can be build. John went further and built the system into a great enclosure, added LED level meters for output level display and used an upgraded power supply to keep the trains running well - which you can watch in the following video:

Another great example of how the Arduino platform can be used in other hobbies. For more information, check out John's project page. And for more, we're on facebook, twitter and Google+, so follow us for news and product updates as well.

 If you're looking into starting with Arduino and motor control  - check out our new HBRIDGE: DC/stepper motor shield. Based around the powerful Allegro A4954 H-bridge driver IC you can control two DC motors with complete ease, or one bipolar stepper motor. With connections for external power management, a complete beginners' guide and documentation - motor control couldn't be any easier. For more information and to order, visit the HBRIDGE: page.

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