RCI

Oak Tree Systems' Railroad Control Interface is a set of electronic products which make up a complete system for operation of model railroads from a Personal Computer. Utilizing a standard serial interface (COM port), the RCI components can receive instructions and return status information to the PC. Up to 255 components can be connected to a single COM port, using a low cost converter and standard telephone cables.

Each RCI component features a high performance microprocessor on the card, which allows it to carry out a wide variety of operations independently of the PC. The PC never needs to be involved in the timing of any device outputs, greatly simplifying the PC software requirements, reducing the load on the network, and allowing a larger number of devices to be supported.

The command messages supported by the RCI are optimized for support of specific model railroad devices, as opposed to a simple "turn point on, turn point off" interface. Wherever possible, the power of the microcontroller is used to provide functionality that would otherwise have to be implemented on the PC. For example, such functions as controlling throttles, operating a crossing flasher, sensing block occupancy, timing pulses to switch machines, and driving searchlight signals (including variable yellow mixing), are done directly on the RCI cards.

The wide variety of input and output interfaces and plug in options available means that nearly any type of signal, accessory, turnout motor, or locomotive can be controlled by the RCI. Each RCI interface card can be independent - there is no need for a "motherboard", so each card can be located where it is most convenient to tie in the necessary wiring.

Key Features of the RCI

	A complete family of control products for model railroads, or anywhere a small, simple, control system is needed.
	Will perform all commonly used model RR functions.
	Highly integrated cards combine a variety of input functions with more than a dozen different output functions to control searchlight signals, crossing flashers, motors, turnouts, throttles, and much more.
	Low-cost throttle cards make Computer Block Control (one throttle per block) feasible. CBC eliminates dozens of cab relays and allows more trains to be run simultaneously. And, our CBC-8 combines both detection and throttle control into one compact card.
	Can work in conjunction with DCC systems to provide block detection, signaling, or turnout control without impacting DCC locomotive performance.
	Distributed Architecture - The RCI cards perform all critical timing functions. The PC software can be simplified by eliminating time critical elements.
	Input Scanning - an exclusive feature of our IO-48 card, allows up to 512 (!) inputs to be connected to a single card.
	Easy-to-use message formats simplify programming for those developing their own software.
	No Motherboards required - Place RCI cards wherever you need them. An IO-24 card is perfect for controlling a small-sized section of your layout. For larger requirements, choose the IO-48 or O-48 cards.
	High-level software support available from Railroad & Co. Our own Railroad Operator software will be available by early 2005.
	Simple network wiring using standard phone cables.
	Easy-to-build kits feature minimized parts count for quick assembly - or purchase your cards fully assembled and tested.
	All components can be powered by low-cost, readily available, 13.8 volt power supplies, or any other supply which provides 9 to 16 volts DC at the required current. Throttle cards, and Relay Plug-ins require 12 volt minimum supply.

Select the individual products from the previous page to get more detailed information about each RCI component.