Building a Detection System

Detection systems are an important part of building a model railroad because they determine whether or not a section of the line is occupied or not.

In this segment, Allen Keller sits down with Soo Line signal maintainer, Bill Pistello to discuss the process of building a detection system as well their passion for model railroading.

You’ll learn about the overhead detection system of an N Scale layout that features infrared light emitting dials in the bottom of the benchwork. The light travels up and is collected by an infrared photo transistor which will signal and tell the operator if the block is occupied or not.