DC-01 is a DCC-cutting device. It can dis/connect low-power DCC signal. DC-01 is connected to a PC via USB. Its purpose is to serve as a safety device – PC application monitors railroad control software running on the PC. When software malfunctions (no data are received from the SW for some time), DC-01 cuts DCC so all the trains operated by the malfunctioning SW are immediately stopped.
This project contains both PCB manufacturing data and firmware for PCB's MCU.
- DC-01 connects to PC via CDC USB-C. Communication goes over standard serial
port. It is possible to automatically detect which serial interface is DC-01 in
Linux & Windows, see software in
swsubfolder. - DC-01 contains 2 2-pole relays. DCC is connected in active relays state (disconnected when powered off). Each relay disconnects both DCC wires, relays are serially coupled. In case of malfunction, disconnection of just one of 4 contacts is enough for DCC cut.
- DC-01 contains self-testing equipment. Selftests are programmed in the firmware of DC-01, their result is reported to PC.
- Relays are controlled via monostable multivibrators. MCU on DC-01 must generate dynamic signal to keep relays on. When processor freezes or malfunctions, relays are safely disconnected.
- There are PTCs on DCC wires.
- STM32F103 MCU, USB-C connector, RJ-12 as well as screw terminal blocks for DCC connection, galvanically isolated output report signals, report LEDs, manual on/off buttons, ESD protection on USB, powered only from USB.
PC console application in Python is provided. This application connects to DC-01 & hJOP, it monitors hJOP. When hJOP dies or requests DCC disconnect DCC is disconnected via DC-01.
See README in aco-warn subfolder.
Functionality of DC-01 is described in this article (czech language only).
DC-01 was created by a member of Model Railroaders Club Brno, Jan Horáček.
See README in subfolders for licenses regarding pcb design and software.