Upgrading A Christmas Train with Python and Raspberry Pi -- Episode 478

Good point - the first, initial, not production, one step removed from a breadboard prototype...

There is so much in this project to love: trains, Raspberry Pi, retrofitting toys with superfluous electronics, and--most of all--that PlayStation Christmas jumper!

Also, remember the mantra: "It's okay; it's only a prototype." Yes, there's always room for improvement, but you gotta start somewhere and this was most excellent!

Tally-ho, dude!

A note on sockets. I just ordered some PCB motor controller boards. My first choice was sold out so I had to look at an alternate. I couldn't figure out for the life of me, why I hadn't gone with this board. It was cheaper and more compact. When I received the order I discovered why. The board chip was not in a socket! It was SMD. I try and not use these boards when I am prototyping just in case I have to replace the IC.

I enjoyed the project. It is something I would think of myself.

That's a very good point about using a socket. For some reason - at no point did it ocur to me as an option. You're quite right though, I had the clearance, so should have used one.

At the end, I had the "motor test script" running. I was also using a shortened track that didn't have the magnet on it (the whole track doesn't fit on the table). That's just the nature of trying to record video with unpredicatable sound and motion happening, it's even worse at betraing continuity, showing where I make misakes and need to cut the video together.

Great project, I enjoyed the video.

I would go with a socket for the IC install. Less risk of smoking something on the chip during installation.

When the train ran at the end of the video I didn't hear or see your sequence. I was expecting some sound and the train to stop for the 20sec and then resume. Did it do that and I just miss it.

I confess I was multitasking at some points.

Thanks DAB

Good question, I'd not thought of that. I am quite interested to get hold of a "digital" Scalectrix set, and see how they work too (both cars can race indipendently on the same track).

There is definately scope for a much smaller controller, I'm just way more comfortable with Pi. I think a soft start with a delay is easily the best addition behind volume control!

Great project to put new life into an old train.

DAB

Very nice upgrade .  I had an HO set when I was a kid.  Your video got me wondering if those sets have now been upgraded with electronics.  A quick look at the Lionel store shows some basic features controlled by either by a dedicated Bluetooth remote or Bluetooth app.