Inc LocoNet Cable Maker Kit - Manual

4. The two outside wires (pins 1 & 6) carry opposite phase copies of the

master system rail packets, this is called RailSync. RailSync allows

LocoNet boosters and other LocoNet devices to be connected any-

where along a cable run. This works even with cable runs of thou-

sands of feet and in the presence of noise and interference.

5. The balanced nature of the cable and the way the signal currents

propagate in this “RF Quad” conguration generate the lowest possi-

ble RFI radiation and EMC susceptibility or inward interference pick-

up. This is a good thing. This is part of the reason Digitrax LocoNet

handily passes the FCC Class B radiation Certication requirements.

6. LocoNet’s philosophy and architecture allow “free-form” wiring with

no termination or “linear-bus” restrictions. You can star, tee, branch,

or expand LocoNet in any conguration. LocoNet can be used in any

conguration except for a ring. You should NEVER connect LocoNet

back on itself, because pins 1 and 6 should not be connected.

LocoNet Wiring: The Specics

1. LocoNet supports a total cable length of up to about 2000 feet de-

pending on actual wire type used and its capacitance.

2. No two devices should be connected by more than 1000 feet of cable.

3. LocoNet can be split & branched in any free form style.

4. The only network current pull up termination needed is provided by

the Command Station. There should be only one Command Station

the layout.

5. Do not loop LocoNet back on itself. Looping LocoNet back on itself

causes RailSync (pins 1 and 6) to be shorted together and to be out of

phase. This causes it to look like an overload to the driver circuit.

6. LocoNet works best when the network cables are 22AWG to 28AWG.

The recommended 6 wire at telephone type ribbon cable is 26AWG.

7. Plug and play design using 6 wire telephone type cables and RJ12

jacks makes setting up LocoNet quick and easy.

8. Plug in your LocoNet Cables in the same pin orientation around the

layout for best results.