Installing a site with diverging routes can serve many purposes.

Cost savings. Basically 2 AEI sites for the cost of one (+ the additional axle acquisition hardware)
Track trains on each route such as main/spur or RR-ABC interchange with RR-XYZ.
Use Route Inhibit parameter to suppress reporting on specified route/direction (e.g. N1 [inhibit reporting trains Northbound on route 1])
Session setup for each route (e.g. Session1, site 1234 inhibit N1, S1 – Session 2, site 4321, inhibit N0, S0)

The following details installation and optimization of the TDA205s to utilize Frauscher RSR110-001, dual segment wheel detectors to the APU-102 for recording trains on diverging routes.

Note:

If upgrading from Tiefenbachs and TDA105s, the Frauscher and TDA205s are direct hardware replacements (color codes, connectors, etc.). NO HARDWARE OR SOFTWARE CHANGES ARE REQUIRED ON THE APU102, except for parameters detailed at the end of this document.

Detailed instructions for new installations follow. Adjust procedure as necessary for upgrade installations.

Conventions:

Detector, sensor and transducer are interchangeable terms referring to the Frauscher RSR110-001
“A” segment referenced is typically the left segment of sensor when viewed from antenna 0, “B” segment is typically the right segment.

Tools Required:

Misc. small hand tools.

- Small flat blade screwdriver
- Wire cutters
- Wire stripperd

Documents Required:

Frauscher Wheel Detector Installation and Optimization
Drawing 571-0029-00, 2 Frauscher Transducers w/ TDA205s for Route Indication.

Installation of the TDA205

Install the Frauscher wheel detectors on the rail. It is recommended that both wheel detectors are installed on the rail closest to antenna 0. With standard wiring, a train moving from left to right will go from “A” to “B”. If necessary to mount one of the detectors on the rail away from antenna 0, the lead-in pairs from it must be reversed to maintain a left to right move is “A” to “B” for both sensors. The reversal can be anywhere ahead of the TDA205, but is recommended at the trackside junction box. Refer to the first and second sections of the Frauscher Wheel Detector Installation and Optimization article, 376-0047-00. Ignore the statement about requiring TDA204 and minimum software. Using the external TDA205s negates this need.

Refer to Drawing 571-0029-00 as needed when following the steps below. Note that color codes shown are typical and may vary. Substitute accordingly.

Mount the TDA205s on the wall near the APU-102.
When wiring the TDA205 to the sensor, keep the following points in mind:

Required!

Reliable connections at splice box and protection panel are IMPERATIVE for correct operation of wheel detectors.

Refer to your particular site drawing when checking hut wiring as there may be a change in color designation.
If the wheel detector splice is in an underground splice box, the splice must be soldered and waterproofed. If ring terminals are used in a weatherproof junction box, verify crimps are secure and proper terminals are being used with sensor lead and shielded pair cable to surge protection panel.

If connected, disconnect the DC power cables from the TDA205s. DO NOT reconnect until fully wired. Connect the DC power cables to the hut DC distribution point. Input voltage range from +9 to +36 VDC.
Connect the wheel detector wiring from the surge protection panel to the TDA205 Sensor Inputs as shown in drawing 571-0029-00.
Connect the TDA205 Sensor Outputs to the wheel detector inputs of the APU-102 as shown in drawing 571-0029-00.

Figure 1: TDA205

Frauscher Wheel Detector Optimization

This chapter provides instructions on optimizing the axle acquisition side of the system with the Frauscher wheel detector and the TDA205 wheel detector interface. Refer to Figure 1 for TDA205 user controls.

Frauscher Wheel Detector Calibration

Before connecting power to the TDA205 voltages, check the DC voltage supplied to the TDA205’s power cable. Input voltage can range from +9 to +36 VDC, but is typically either +12 or +24 VDC. Verify polarity is correct.

Connect the DC power to the TDA205.
On the TDA205, press and hold the “NULL” button. With the “NULL” potentiometer above each sensor’s 2-color LED, adjust until the LED is extinguished. The following table indicates which direction to turn the null potentiometer:

	To Turn LED Off
Sensor A or B Red LED is lit	Counterclockwise
Sensor A or B Green LED is lit	Clockwise

NOTE: The NULL adjustment may not be successful until the calibration is run.

Release the “NULL’ button.
Press and release the “SENSOR CALIBRATE” button. The Sensor LEDs may light and the CALIBRATE LED will blink during the calibration process. When calibration is done, the Calibrate LED will light solid.
Repeat the null process in step 3.
Repeat all steps for the second wheel detector/TDA205.

Configuring the APU-102

The use of TDA205s is similar to using the TDA105. The APU-102 does not require any hardware or software changes. It can operate with the TDA104 or the TDA204 set to compatibility mode and any version of mainline software.

Parameters

Set the following parameters for the Frauscher.

Acquisition.Operating.WheelDetectorSeparation=50

Acquisition.Operating.WheelDetectorGain=99

Acquisition.Operating.WheelDetectorThreshold=30

Acquisition.Operating.WheelDetCsegMode=2

Set the following parameters if your software version has these.

Acquisition.Operating.DifferentialIOInputMask=54147

Acquisition.ACQProcess.Enabled=1

Acquisition.ACQProcess.MaxACQs=200

Optional Virtual I/O Configuration File (VIO.CFG)

Some customers do not use the routing information, and some do. The routing inputs are included in the wiring diagram. They will have no effect if not connected or enabled, but would be useful for future maintenance and diagnostics. The APU-102 has numerous opto-isolated inputs available for custom uses. They are enabled using the Virtual I/O Configuration file (VIO.CFG). The inputs use and actions are specified in this file. Skilled users can download, modify the file, and upload back to the APU-102. Contact Comet Electronics support if you need assistance with this file.

Connect to the APU and verify the WDC and WDD inputs are not being used for another purpose. Look at the I/O screen. In the left side “LABEL” column, under “WDA” and “WDB”, you will see “WDC” and “WDD” if not in use. If you see “Cntr 00000” and “Cntr 00001”, it is already setup for routing. If anything else shows, alternate inputs will need to be used. Contact Comet Electronics for assistance.
If necessary to edit, download the existing VIO.CFG file with ZSEND.
Edit the file with a text editor (e.g. Notepad)
Add the following line to the file:

COUNTS#2, i3,m10,d1,t2, i0,m80,d1,t2

Save the file.
Upload to the APU with ZREC.

NOTE: If the VIO.CFG file does not exist, download the file VIOWCWD.CFG. Rename to VIO.CFG and send back.

Reboot the APU-102

Reboot the APU-102 to load the parameter and VIO.CFG changes. Fast reboot OK.

Wheel Detector Testing

Before testing the wheel detector, make sure you have performed the adjustments phase of this procedure on both wheel detectors/TDA205s and parameter/VIO changes have been completed.

Note:

In case non-standard mounting was required, the “A” segment will be the left most on both detectors as viewed from antenna 0.

Sensor Voltages (Sensor Input)

Voltage across either sensor segment should be approximately 8.75VDC ± 0.25 V with no wheel or metal over the sensor. “A” segment voltage may be measured at Sensor Input pin 1 (+) and pin 2 (-). “B” segment voltage is measured at Sensor Input pin 5 (+) and pin 6 (-). The segments are 2 separate circuits within the sensor and the voltages will not match between “A” and “B” but should be close. Placing a piece of metal over a sensor segment causes the corresponding segment input voltage to rise to approximately 10 VDC ± 0.5 VDC on the TDA205 connected to the detector being tested. (This voltage varies depending on the size and placement of metal over sensor segment.)

TDA205 Output Voltages

TDA205 voltages may be measured at the TDA205 Sensor Output connector or the APU-102’s wheel detector inputs. For procedure clarity, voltages at the TDA205 will be listed; however, it is recommended that the voltages also be checked at the APU-102’s wheel detector inputs to verify proper wiring.

Confirm no metal is present over the sensor. Check the analog voltage of the “A” sensor at Sensor Output pin 1 (+) and Sensor Output pin 2 (-), then check the “B” sensor voltage at Sensor Output pin 6 (+), Sensor Output pin 7 (-). Voltage should measure 0.0 VDC ±0.1 VDC. Check the TTL output for segment being used. Typically, the “B” segment is used, but older installations may use the “A” segment. “B” is on Sensor Output pin 9 (+) and Sensor Output pin 10 (-). “A” is on Sensor Output pin 4 (+) and Sensor Output pin 5 (-).Voltage should measure about 11.5 to 12 VDC.
Place a piece of metal over each sensor segment, check voltage of the “A” sensor at Sensor Output pin 1 (+) and Sensor Output pin 2 (-), then check the “B” sensor voltage at Sensor Output pin 6 (+), Sensor Output pin 7 (-). Voltage across each segment should rise significantly. The actual voltage level will depend on front end loading of the APU-102’s input circuitry. Check the TTL output for segment being used. It will be less than one volts when active.

Indicator Test Method

With the Frauscher wheel detectors and TDA205s connected as in drawing 571-0029-00, confirm proper adjustment using the following steps:

Before testing the wheel detector, make sure you have performed the adjustments phase of this procedure.
Log into the APU and use the “I” command to display the I/O screen. Refer to Figure 2. Verify WDA, WDB, are 0 (zero) and CNTR00000 and CNTR00001 are 1 (one).
Lay a piece of metal on the “A” segment. The A LED on the TDA205 should light GREEN and the WDA of the APU-102 should light. WDA on the I/O screen will show 1 (one).
Remove the metal from the “A” segment. The A LED on the TDA205 and WDA of the APU-102 should go off. WDA on the I/O screen should go back to 0. Wait for the APU-102 to timeout before proceeding.
Lay a piece of metal on the “B” segment. The B LED on the TDA205 should light GREEN and the WDB of the APU-102 should light. WDB on the I/O screen will show 1 (one).
Remove the metal from the “B” segment. The B LED on the TDA205 and WDB of the APU-102 should go off. WDB on the I/O screen should go back to 0. Wait for the APU-102 to timeout before proceeding.
Lay a piece of metal on the wheel detector covering BOTH segments. On the I/O screen, verify EITHER CTR00000 or CNTR00001 change to 0 (zero). Remove the metal from the wheel detector and wait for the APU-102 to timeout before proceeding.
Repeat steps 1-6 for the second wheel detector/TDA205.
Lay a piece of metal on the wheel detector covering BOTH segments. On the I/O screen, verify the opposite CNTR than indicated in step 7 changes to 0 (zero). Remove the metal from the wheel detector and wait for the APU-102 to timeout before proceeding.

  Block #     Label   I/O State
----- --  --------- --- ------ +  ----- --  --------- --- ------
Main   7  PresIn     I  Clear  |  Main   9  PresOut    O  Clear
Main  15  DTrkPres   I  Clear  |  Main  16  DTrkPres   O  Clear
----  --  WDA        I  0      |  Aux1   7  ClkSync    O  Clear
----  --  WDB        I  0      |  Aux1   9  WatchDog   O  1
Aux1   5  Cntr 00000 I  1      |  Aux2   9  SensorPwr  O  On
Aux2   1  Cntr 00001 I  1      |  Aux2  11  SpareOut   O  1
----  --  VTP R0,A0  I  Off    |  ----  --  RFOn R0,A0 O  Off
----  --  VTP R0,A1  I  Off    |  ----  --  RFOn R0,A1 O  Off
----  --  VTP R1,A0  I  Off    |  ----  --  RFOn R1,A0 O  Off
----  --  VTP R1,A1  I  Off    |  ----  --  RFOn R1,A1 O  Off
Aux2   7  VTP R2,A0  I  Off    |  Aux2  15  RFOn R2,A0 O  On
Aux2   5  VTP R2,A1  I  Off    |  Aux2  13  RFOn R2,A1 O  On
Main  11  24VAC      I  Ok     |  ----  --  Sys LED    O  On
Aux1   3  Progrmble  I  Clear  |  ----  --  Sys Button I  Out
----  --  RsrvdSens  I  1      |  ----  --  SW3 Button I  Out
Aux2   3  Temp Probe I  0      |  ----  --  SW2 Button I  Out
----  --  Phone Sel  O  Line 1 |  ----  --  SW1 Button I  Out

                    <Press any key to exit>

Figure 2: APU-102 I/O Screen

The site is now ready for evaluation of axle information using actual trains.

The “RT” column in the train directory list will show 0 or 1 for the route.

If “RT” displays “U”, it means no route indication was received.

If “RT” displays “M”, it means multiple/both route indicators received input.

APU102 MAIN STREET MP: 0000.7 Station 00700 Reader 1 SEQ DATE TIME RPT LEAD ENG DIR RT MPH AXLES CARS TAGS LEN(FT) 2775 03-21-19 11:21 Y COMT 3830 E 1 010 0032 0008 0008 00669 2774 03-21-19 04:12 Y COMT 3935 W 1 009 0184 0046 0046 02897 2773 03-21-19 02:54 Y COMT 1213 W 1 009 0012 0003 0003 00200 2772 03-21-19 02:00 Y COMT 1213 E 1 007 0012 0003 0003 00212 2771 03-21-19 00:08 Y COMT 3931 E 1 010 0180 0045 0045 02952 2770 03-20-19 19:48 Y COMT 3852 W 0 010 0104 0026 0026 01586 2769 03-20-19 17:37 Y COMT 3935 W 1 009 0100 0025 0025 01500 2768 03-20-19 16:15 Y COMT 3931 E 1 010 0012 0003 0003 00179 2767 03-20-19 15:51 Y COMT 3852 E 0 009 0080 0020 0020 01241 2766 03-20-19 15:38 Y COMT 3935 W 1 009 0012 0003 0003 00167 2765 03-20-19 12:18 Y COMT 3931 E 1 010 0268 0067 0067 04753 2764 03-20-19 05:54 Y COMT 1205 W 1 009 0028 0007 0007 00425 2763 03-20-19 03:49 Y COMT 3935 W 1 010 0088 0022 0021 01283 2762 03-20-19 03:34 Y COMT 1205 E 1 010 0020 0005 0005 00324 2761 03-20-19 00:17 Y COMT 3931 E 1 011 0192 0048 0048 03227

Figure 3: Train Directory

Housekeeping

If VIO.CFG or parameters were changed, perform the parameter backup (BP) and update the mirror image (IBACKUP)

Correct any site deficiencies (presence, RFID, communications, etc.)