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GIRR diode matrix

The Geologically Improbable Railroad

Diode Matrix

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diode matrix board The other part of the interlocking turnout control system is a diode matrix. This simple circuit determines which turnouts should be thrown in which direction to set up a route through the trackwork.

The 5474 converter circuits energize a pair of rows, one positive and one negative. Diodes are connected between the rows and columns. Each turnout motor is connected to one column. The presence of a diode at a junction will cause turnout to be thrown when its row is energized.



© 1997 George Schreyer
Last Updated Nov 4, 1999