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BlasterBob

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    New iTrain Tutorial Series

    in Computer Control

    Posted

    19 hours ago, R.Langley said:

    I binged the first 7 videos during the week and then caught up with video 8 yesterday, fantastic.

     

    As Steve said, as good as the manual is, seeing practical demonstrations of how iTrain works really does help whet the appetite to get it and makes you think "this is for me", so thank you (and Iain) for putting these together.

     

    Looking forward to the rest of the videos!

     

    Richard

     

    Thank you, Richard. It's great to hear that the videos are proving useful. iTrain provides an exciting new dimension to the hobby.

    New iTrain Tutorial Series

    in Computer Control

    Posted

    On 05/07/2020 at 22:54, 55020 said:

    I've just watched all 7 videos, subscribed and :good:

     

    Thanks Bob (and Iain) for taking the time to put this series together.  The manual is good ( and extensive), but there's nothing better than watching someone take you through things step by step. 

     

     

     

    Steve

    Thanks Steve. Appreciated.

    New iTrain Tutorial Series

    in Computer Control

    Posted · Edited by BlasterBob

    With the assistance of Iain Morrison I have been working on a new series of iTrain tutorials.
    The first five videos have now been published on YouTube.
    Here are the links so far:
    Tutorial 01: https://youtu.be/5jjA2mwRS1U
    Installing iTrain
    00:30 - What do I need?
    01:37 - Downloading
    02:05 - Check if Java is installed
    03:08 - Download and Install Java
    05:09 - Download and Install iTrain
    06:48 - Opening iTrain
    08:06 - iTrain license overview
    09:10 - Applying for a trail license



    Tutorial 02: https://youtu.be/HkQIi3E6ra0
    iTrain Overview
    00:24 - Introduction
    00:59 – Fundamental windows at startup
    01:44 – Top toolbar
    03:28 – File - dropdown menus
    04:04 – Editor - dropdown menus
    04:12 – Settings
    04:26 – Preferences
    04:45 – Interfaces
    05:01 - Boosters
    05:15 – Feedbacks
    05:52 – Accessories
    06:17 – Track Routes
    07:02 – Actions
    07:32 – Locomotives, Wagons and Trains
    08:17 – Train Types
    08:80 – Train Routes
    09:44 – Blocks
    10:10 – Stations
    11:14 - Switchboard
    11:38 – Control – dropdown menu
    11:48 – View – dropdown menu
    11:59 – Diagnosis
    12:42 – Keyboard
    13:05 – Feedback Monitor
    13:32 – Speed measurements
    14:01 – Decoder Programming
    14:25 – Layout views plus extra switchboards



    Tutorial 03: https://youtu.be/mnJL5e2z5DA
    Connecting a Command Station
    00:46 - Saving a layout
    02:08 - Interface Editor
    04:06 - General Tab
    04:17 - Connection Tab
    06:18 - Specific Tab
    06:29 - Image Tab
    06:42 - Saving your Command Station
    07:25 – Connect to your layout



    Tutorial 04: https://youtu.be/Y-UnPm6fqqg
    Running Locos Manually
    00:31 – Fundamental Basics
    02:54 - Quick Speed Profile
    07:52 – Creating a new locomotive
    09:36 – Image Tab
    10:02 – Speed Tab – Step1 and Step 126 – Linear
    10:56 – Options Tab
    11:10 – Saving your new Locomotive
    11:42 – The difference between Locomotives & Trains
    13:34 – Making the train move manually – video insert
    14:35 – Creating a new Locomotive – Revision
    15:53 – Speed Tab – copy from existing locomotive
    16:49 – Saving the new Locomotive
    17:10 – Running the new Locomotives – video insert
    18:48 – Saving the layout



    Tutorial 05: https://youtu.be/Rp7fBxkFShM
    Switchboard - Manual Turnout Control
    00:30 – Start iTrain and open project
    01:11 – Creating a new switchboard whilst retaining Locomotives & Trains
    02:38 – Editing the Switchboard
    03:26 – Diagram of Test Track for Tutorials
    04:25 – Enlarging the grid space
    05:09 – Drawing the mainline track
    06:08 – Drawing the sidings
    06:42 – Drawing the left-hand turnouts
    07:32 – Drawing the right-hand turnouts
    08:12 – Drawing the curves
    08:52 – Drawing the buffers
    09:39 – Naming and addressing the turnouts
    12:50 – Applying / Saving the Switchboard
    14:17 – Testing the turnout addressing and function on the layout – video insert
    15:04 – Testing by moving trains over turnouts – video insert



    Tutorial 06: https://youtu.be/ZkI_zQTVEXo
    Laying Track, and Track Layers
    00:03 – Overview
    01:05 – Using the Keyboard to lay track in the switchboard
    02:24 – Creating the sidings using keystrokes only
    04:32 – Entering buffers using Shift + B
    05:25 – Rotating elements using Shift + R
    05:48 – Inserting Feedbacks using the F key
    06:01 – Inserting Blocks using the B key
    06:11 – Inserting Direction Arrows using the P key
    06:23 – Using the Copy and Paste method
    06:59 – Moving elements using Shift + Ctrl + Cursor Keys
    07:17 – CAUTION when copying items
    09:00 – Copying onto a new Tab
    09:35 - Understanding Layers
    10:17 – Creating a layer
    10:46 – Editing elements on or below a layer
    12:05 – CAUTION - Inadvertently creating layers
    13:23 – Non-switchable elements above switchable elements
    13:57 – CAUTION – you cannot have two switchable elements on top of each other
    14:19 – IMPORTANT - leave at least two squares either side when creating Block elements.
    14:35 – IMPORTANT – leave at least one square adjacent to ends of tracks.
    15:06 – IMPORTANT – Direction Arrows pointing in the direction of the Block element dots.
    16:18 – Undo Command – Ctrl + Z



    Tutorial 07: https://youtu.be/K6ZOtIIk3uI
    Track Routes
    00:00 – Introduction
    01:17 – Adding text elements using Shift + E
    04:05 – Adding a section of track in the switchboard using keystrokes
    05:03 – Apply changes and save
    05:19 – Creating Track Routes
    06:10 – Placing Track Route elements away from the track.
    06:43 – Entering the details of the Track Routes – naming and sequences
    10:01 – Setting the delay in the Switch Order Tab
    12:12 - Setting a Global delay in the Options Tab
    13:44 - Set Always tick-box
    14:21 – Reset Initial State tick-box
    15:13 – Entering Track Route Details – Revision
    18:00 – Apply changes and save
    18:21 – Checking the operation of the saved Track Routes
    18:50 – Lock symbols at turnouts
    19:19 – IMPORTANT – deselect Track Route when finished.
    20:08 – Automatic Track Route Control – Overview
    22:14 - Homework suggestion



    Tutorial 08: https://youtu.be/nhKXUSAgei0
    Blocks, Feedbacks and Groups
    00:13 – Introduction
    00:52 – Blocks – graphic depicting real-world railway blocks
    01:22 – Blocks in iTrain
    01:43 – The three aspects of Blocks
    02:49 – Block Properties Editor
    03:22 – Block Terms Graphic – Physical Block, Block Element, Block Control Object
    03:31 – Block Rules 1&2 - Graphic
    04:02 – Block Rules 1 & 2 – Examples & Explanation
    05:50 – Block Rules – Cross tracks
    07:24 – Block Rules – Sidings and long track sections
    08:06 – Block Rule 3 - Graphic – Block requirements
    08:40 – Block Rule 3 – Examples & Explanation
    10:37 - Preferred Direction of Travel definition – Previous to Next
    11:40 – Block Element dots explanation
    12:12 – Block Rule 5 – Graphic – Length of Blocks
    12:26 – Block Rule 5 – Examples & Explanation
    13:27 – Block Rule 6 – Graphic – Grouping
    13:40 – Block Rule 6 – Using the Assign Group button or G Key
    15:21 – Placing the required elements to create a Block

    Tutorial 09: https://youtu.be/ymrhTb56qOA
    Defining Feedbacks
    00:00 – Introduction & Recap
    00:59 – Running the Diagnosis – Ctrl D
    01:45 – Correcting errors – inputting length of turnouts
    03:34 – Opening the Switchboard, checking for black track elements and correcting errors
    05:57 – Defining Feedbacks – Feedback Properties
    08:38 – Defining Feedbacks by using the Template function for multiple Feedbacks
    10:24 – Assigning control objects to Feedback elements – drag and drop
    11:06 - Revision of defining Feedbacks
    11:45 – Using Board Item to define a Feedback



    Tutorial 10: https://youtu.be/8ndTcstd0Kw
    Defining Blocks
    00:00 – Introduction and Recap
    01:00 – Opening Switchboard and selecting Block properties
    01:44 - Naming and Describing the Block
    01:56 – Selecting the type of Block
    02:13 – Defining the length of the Block and the use of Autofill
    02:46 – Options Tab
    03:33 – Feedbacks Tab
    04:24 – Feedbacks Tab with two feedback sensors
    05:55 – IMPORTANT – Order of feedbacks – Previous to Next
    06:19 – Feedbacks using light sensors or reed switches
    07:15 – Direction Previous Tab – Use Positions checkbox
    08:14 – Direction Previous Tab – Entering a STOP position – positive or negative distances
    09:44 – Direction Previous Tab – Block
    10:15 – Direction Next Tab
    11:50 – IMPORTANT – Critical check box - avoiding deadlocks
    14:12 - Results of defining a Block
    14:56 - Defining Blocks by using the Template function for multiple Blocks
    15:42 - Assigning control objects to Block elements – drag and drop
    16:00 – Using the Autofill function
    16:51 – Revision of entering the STOP position and Block properties
    17:45 – Revision of defining Blocks
    19:45 – Using the Board Item Tab
    21:04 – Using the Text Direction drop-down menu in the Board Item Tab
    21:45 – IMPORTANT – Using the Connect button
    22:16 – Saving the Layout and running the Diagnosis – Ctrl D



    Tutorial 11: https://youtu.be/ZwuzZX6RaHs
    Instant Route Basics
    0:45 - "Wide" layout and how to select it
    0:54 - Recall of "Track Routes" and their limitations
    3:37 - Putting/Removing trains in blocks in the Switchboard
    5:09 - Synching physical orientation of the train in the switchboard
    8:40 - Creation of an "Instant Route" and Route vs Shunt selection
    10:25 - Information in the switchboard about the route and the train
    12:20 - How iTrain knows where the train is?
    12:29 - Example of movement simulation with iTrain offline, not connected, by double clicking in the feedbacks. (simulation mode)
    13:37 - Shunt example
    14:19 - Erasing a route error message



    Tutorial 12: https://youtu.be/INdIf2rB44o
    Multiple Instant Routes
    Auto Reverse using Instant Route
    Splitting and reattaching a Loco
    00:00 – Introduction and Recap
    01:13 – Placing a Train on the Switchboard and checking the orientation of the Train
    03:06 - Shift + Click on Direction Arrow to change the iTrain orientation to match reality
    03:16 – Checking the orientation – Select forward – note the direction of the arrow and compare
    04:09 – Creating an Instant Route with simple drag & drop
    04:40 – Creating a simultaneous Instant Routes with drag & drop
    06:11 – Creating more simultaneous Instant Routes including moving into an occupied siding
    11:10 – Auto Reversing
    12:02 – Splitting a Train - Left-click and Hold (note: the "Split Train" option will not appear until the train has previously been routed somewhere. So it is not available when the train is first placed onto the layout)
    14:09 – Reattaching a Locomotive to Wagons by shunting
    14:41 – “Allow shunt in occupied Block” setting change in Block Properties
    15:20 - Reattaching a Locomotive to Wagons by shunting – Left-Click and Hold to join


    Tutorial 13: https://youtu.be/a63agS5XwY4
    Semi-Automatic and Manual Instant Routes
    Block Position
    00:00 – Introduction
    00:50 – Checking Train Properties
    01:39 – Instant Route Recap – Drag & Drop – Route or Shunt
    02:22 – New feature iTrain 5.0.5 and above – Pop-Up option to run the route in 3 ways
    03:02 – Explanation of difference in route options – Automatic, Semi-Automatic, Manual
    04:08 – Semi-Automatic Mode – Example
    05:47 – Positional information in the Block
    07:18 – Starting a Semi-Automatic route – Apply throttle or you get an error
    07:49 – Resetting the Route
    08:18 – Applying throttle in offline mode and simulating the movement of the train
    08:37 – QUESTION? – Why is iTrain reporting 3cm when the train first enters the block?
    09:21 – Monitoring the position of the train in the control Block.
    12:14 – QUESTION? Why is iTrain only releasing after the train has moved 65cm into the Block and not 58,5cm
    12:51 – A closer look at Block Properties and interpretation of positions
    14:21 – IMPORTANT - Iain Morrison’s iTrain Forum post explaining Block Position
    17:29 – Reporting Position dependent on the direction of Direction Arrow
    18:07 – QUESTION? Reversing a Train into a Block – what position will iTrain report?


    Tutorial 14: https://youtu.be/ed9W-Uoxw44
    Answers to the questions from video 13.
    00:00 – Introduction
    00:10 – ANSWER - Why is iTrain reporting 3cm when the train first enters the block?
    01:47 – ANSWER - Why is iTrain only releasing after the train has moved 65cm into the Block and not 58,5cm
    03:05 – IMPORTANT – Explanation and Table regarding Margins
    04:38 – ANSWER - Reversing a Train into a Block – what position will iTrain report?
    05:38 – IMPORTANT – Occupancy sensors triggered by current conducting/pickup wheels


    Tutorial 15: https://youtu.be/Qg0xjJl14Y0
    Deadlocks and Critical Blocks
    00:00 – Introduction of the new layout
    01:38 – Setting up three Instant Routes
    02:14 – Starting the Instant Routes and moving the trains along the routes.
    02:59 – Example and Explanation of a classic Deadlock
    03:34 – How to prevent a Deadlock and identify a Critical Block
    04:42 - How to make a Critical Block in Direction Next
    06:28 – Definition of a Critical Block
    07:17 – Checking the operation with Critical Block selected – Deadlock avoided
    09:03 – More complex example of a Deadlock – Critical Block in Direction Previous
    16:18 - Checking the operation with Critical Block selected – Deadlock avoided



    Tutorial 16: https://youtu.be/80K2VIXVO1I
    Preparing a Locomotive for iTrain (part 1)
    02:30 - Five step summary
    05:15 - Creating a CV Table
    09:13 - Setting CV3 Acceleration, CV4 Deceleration
    10:50 - Measuring and setting CV5 Max Speed
    13:30 - Measuring and setting CV2 Min Speed
    14:38 - Creating a Speed Profile
    20:00 - Inertia Simulation - Acceleration - Deceleration - Step Delay - Step Size - Feedback Offset


    Tutorial 17: https://youtu.be/uBldmYVxkK4
    Preparing a Locomotive for iTrain (part 2) - Reaction Delay

     

     

    Tutorial 18:   https://youtu.be/Y1H-bYn2e28
    Preparing a Locomotive for iTrain (part 3) - Reaction Delay Shuttle Train Route


    Don't forget to subscribe to the YouTube channel, it's completely free, and also press the bell icon so that you receive a notification when a new video has been posted.

     

    I hope you find them useful.
    Bob

    • Like 6
    • Thanks 4

    iTrain good or not so good?

    in Computer Control

    Posted

    With the assistance of Iain Morrison I have been working on a new series of iTrain tutorials.
    The first four videos have now been published on YouTube.
    Here are the links:

    Using iTrain Tutorial Series - Video 01: Installing iTrain https://youtu.be/5jjA2mwRS1U

    Using iTrain Tutorial Series - Video 02 Overview https://youtu.be/HkQIi3E6ra0

    Using iTrain Tutorial Series - Video 03 Connecting a Command Station https://youtu.be/mnJL5e2z5DA

    Using iTrain Tutorial Series - Video 04 v2: Running Locos Manually https://youtu.be/Y-UnPm6fqqg

    Using iTrain Tutorial Series - Video 05: Switchboard - Manual Turnout Control https://youtu.be/Rp7fBxkFShM

    I hope you find then useful.
    Bob

    • Like 1
    • Informative/Useful 1

    Welcome to St Aldhelm

    in Layout topics

    Posted

    Thanks for the kind words, Ian! The clean slate has been a god send...if a long time coming...and I'm determined to make the very best of it.

     

    I'm glad someone got the St Aldhelm's Head reference! I used to go on holiday on Purbeck as a kid. Our campsite being just up the hill from Harman's Cross - the end of the line back then - a trip on the Swanage Railway was always a highlight. I've been back a few times and still think it's one of the best heritage lines in the country.

     

    I'm hoping I'll have room for a Banks Arms beer garden overlooking Talbothays station with plenty of people enjoying the summer sunshine and watching the trains go by :)

     

    Being more of a kettle fan, I have very few diesels at the moment, but more will be added to the roster eventually, no doubt, so a gala might have to feature!

     

    Hi Mike. Just found your posts and have begun reading through them. Loving your write ups! Have you got your pre-order in for the class 33/1  33111 that Heljan are about to release? it's a must have for your layout. Heljan 3459.

    • Like 2

    Warrington Bank Quay - The Northern Approach - OO DCC

    in Layout topics

    Posted

    Another quick update today, I have finally put pen to paper with the baseboard construction design. The renders of the current plan are illustrated below. The design of the two most northern boards (North & North Mid) are identical other than the presence of the back-scene on the north board. These are constructed out of 18 x 69 mm section, topped with 12mm MDF. The frames include an extra longitudinal batten mounted centrally and have leg pockets at the northern end (to accept 44 x 44 mm legs).

    attachicon.gifWBQ007a.png

    The South Mid board retains the 69mm depth for most of the board, with the southern most transverse beam being 94mm deep instead to match the drop section (with a further 12mm added to the bottom to match the lower scenic board depth). The longitudinal beam is now mounted 160mm from the front of the board. 

     

    The South board is far more complicated, with all the main timbers being 94mm not 69mm again with a further 12mm added. This board has 4 leg pockets and further (near) transverse beams to allow the Low Level Line to be represented. The lower section will be built up to the correct height before the scenic work is started.

     

    The back-scenes are 6mm MDF and finish 1ft above the baseboard surface (this may be changed at a later point though).

    attachicon.gifWBQ007b.png

    attachicon.gifWBQ007c.png

     

    These plans aren't set in stone, but unless I spot anything majorly wrong with these, construction to approximately this design can now begin.

     

    Wild Boar Fell

    Can I ask what software program you used to produce the baseboard drawings?

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