SS1 Simple DC Model Railway Shuttle Controller

About the Product

The BLOCKsignalling SS1 is a DC model railway shuttle controller that automatically runs a train backwards and forwards with adjustable 1-second to 10-minute timing. It provides an easy way to add automatic train movement to a model railway layout while keeping installation and operation straightforward.

At each end of the shuttle line, an insulated rail gap stops the train by cutting power to the locomotive. After the selected delay, the SS1 automatically reverses the polarity of the track supply, allowing the train to depart in the opposite direction. No external stopping diodes are normally required, as these are already built into the module.

The time between each change of direction can be adjusted from approximately 1 second up to 10 minutes using the on-board TIME control. This allows the running and waiting time to be adjusted to suit anything from a short model railway shuttle to a longer automatic back-and-forth section.

The SS1 is designed to work with a separate DC speed controller, allowing you to use your existing controller to set the locomotive speed. When the SS1 is switched off, the track connection passes through the module so the line can still be operated manually.

Key Features

• Automatically operates a DC model train backwards and forwards along a single section of track.
• Adjustable timing from approximately 1 second to 10 minutes.
• Simple on-board screwdriver adjustment.
• Works with your existing DC speed controller or throttle.
• Built-in stopping diodes – external diodes are not normally required.
• Forward and reverse LEDs indicate the intended direction of travel.
• Output LEDs indicate the polarity being supplied to the track.
• Microprocessor controlled for accurate and consistent timing.
• Simple wiring and straightforward operation.
• Pass-through operation when unpowered allows the line to be controlled manually.
• Can be used with compatible three-rail DC track.
• Points and sidings can be incorporated within the central shuttle section.
• Suitable for OO, HO and smaller gauges.
  

Adjustable Shuttle Timing

The SS1's TIME control determines the interval between each change of direction and is adjusted using a small screwdriver.

The first half of the adjustment provides fine control between approximately 1 and 90 seconds. The adjustment then becomes progressively coarser up to a maximum setting of approximately 10 minutes.

The module reads the TIME setting when first powered and each time the direction changes, so minor adjustments can also be made while the shuttle is operating.

Automatic End-of-Line Operation

A small insulated break is required in the appropriate rail at each end of the shuttle line. This can be created using an insulating rail joiner or by cutting a small gap in the rail.

When the locomotive passes the gap, traction current is prevented from reaching it and the train stops. When the SS1 changes the polarity of the track supply, power is restored to the locomotive and it travels back in the opposite direction.

The stopping diodes are already incorporated into the SS1, so separate external diodes are not normally required.

Use with Your Existing DC Controller

Unlike a model railway shuttle controller with a built-in throttle, the SS1 is designed to work with a separate DC speed controller. The DC controller supplies the track power and determines the locomotive's running speed, while the SS1 automatically controls the direction changes.

When power to the SS1 is switched off, the track connection passes directly through the module. This means trains can still be operated manually on the shuttle section using your DC controller without having to remove the SS1 from the layout.

LED Indication

The SS1 includes LED indicators to make operation and troubleshooting straightforward.

The FWD and REV LEDs indicate the direction in which the module intends to send the train, while the output LEDs indicate the actual polarity of the output being supplied to the track.

This makes it easy to confirm that the automatic shuttle controller is changing direction correctly and can also help identify a track, wiring or locomotive problem.

Layout Options

Although designed primarily for a simple single-track model railway shuttle, the SS1 can also accommodate additional track arrangements.

A set of points and siding can be incorporated into the central section of the shuttle, provided the appropriate insulated track gap is installed to stop the locomotive on the siding.

A loop can also be incorporated into the central section, provided it does not bypass either of the end track gaps.

The SS1 can also be used with three-rail DC track by placing the required insulated gaps in the centre rail.

Electrical Requirements

• Power Supply: 12V DC
• Maximum Module Current Consumption: Approximately 50mA
• Train Controller: Separate DC speed controller/throttle required
• Maximum Recommended Track Current: 1A
• Gauge Compatibility: OO, HO and smaller gauges
• Power Input Protection: Reverse-polarity protected

Wiring Diagram

The wiring diagram shows the standard SS1 installation, with the SS1 connected between your DC speed controller and the shuttle track and insulated rail gaps used to stop the locomotive at each end.

Time Delay Adjustment

Use the on-board TIME control to adjust the interval between direction changes from approximately 1 second to 10 minutes, with finer adjustment available between approximately 1 and 90 seconds.

Documentation & Support

For full installation instructions, wiring information and troubleshooting guidance, please download the latest SS1 instruction manual:

Product Instruction Manual