I assume that you're going to run your complete layout with the ECoS, so you need a digital solution.
Of course, you can't just connect the track, as it will cause a short.
The solution is to create a separate section for the loop (fully isolated), and switch polarity when your train is completely in that section. Switching polarity does not influence the direction the train is running in, but it is needed to avoid a short when your engine moves from one section into the other. Simply said: as long as all the wheels of your train are on track with the same polarity, you're safe, even with trains having interior lighting and such.
As far as I know, there are two solutions:
- A circuit that detects the short when the train goes from one section into the other and swaps polarity within a few milliseconds. This is by far the easiest solution and also works for more complicated track plans (like mine), where trains run around in both directions. For this, you can use the Lenz LK100 or Uhlenbrock Power 3 (I've used the latter for years, and it works perfectly. Don't know if it's compatible with the ECoS).
- Creating sections and train detection, and switch the polarities upon detection of the train. There is a perfect solution for this that you can build yourself and costs around 40 euros (60 dollars). Problem is that the description is in Dutch
:
http://www.funkyrail.nl/fr-zelfbouw-keerlus2.htmHope this helps!
David.
