MeddieMakes - Unnamed T-Trak Modular Layout

Quick update on the T-Trak DCC-EX power module build: it’s now fully completed and up and running 🎉

Really happy with how this turned out overall. The enclosure went together nicely, all the panel cut-outs lined up properly, and the wiring behaved itself enough to avoid becoming a bowl of electronic spaghetti. The display, USB access, and track outputs are all working exactly as intended, and it now has that proper “mini control console” feel sitting on the layout.

Only one small tweak left on the to-do list: the Track A/B indicator LEDs are a little brighter than expected at full power. Nothing major, but I’ll likely increase the resistor values slightly to tone them down a bit and make the indicators a little easier on the eyes during operation.

Apart from that, the project has gone smoothly from start to finish and I’m really pleased with the final result 👍

Features:

Front Panel

• Track A (Red Line - Front Track) - DCC-EX Output 1

• Track B (Yellow Line - Rear Track) - DCC-EX Output 2

• Power Indicator (Blue LED) for DCC-EX System

• Track Polarity Indicator for Track A / B (Green - DC Forward, Red - DC Backwards, Yellow - DCC)

• USB Type B for updating DCC-EX or to plug into a PC for JMRI or EX‑WebThrottle

Rear Panel

• Isolation Power Switch on Back Panel to disable DCC-EX Command station, Allows module to be added to a layout as a standard single module

• 12V (Limited to 5A) Accessory Output to power other modules (Including Kato point motors) example coming soon

• Track A / B outputs (Phono Connector) for interconnecting additional power feeds to other modules

Now to try all the different DCC-EX phone apps to see which I prefer and I may also look into custom physical DCC-EX mini throttle for that more tactile controller in the future.

If you have used DCC-EX, Please let me know in the comments, would be great to hear about your experience and what controller you use.

Thought I’d share a quick build log of the DCC-EX power module I’ve just started putting together for my T-Trak setup.

First Look

I have designed a power module with a separate white MDF facia panel based on my laser-cut MDF single module. Everything is tab-and-slot, so it’s basically a very satisfying 3D jigsaw. The facia panel is currently temporarily secured with masking tape, as I currently review different methods to secure the facia to the module frame.

Considered using submerged magnets or screws to allow the fascia to be removed for maintenance but this might be overkill as there is plenty of room under the module to access the back of the components. Front panel is already engraved and labelled, giving the facia a great professional look, which is a big win:

• Screen cut-out (2.4” LCD Screen)

• LEDs for DCC-EX power + Track A/B (Bicolor LED for polarity indicator)

• USB port access for updating DCC-EX So no guessing what goes where, which is always appreciated.

Dry Fit

I always like to test-fit before committing to glue, and this went together really nicely. The tolerances are tight but not “force it and regret it” tight.

Here’s where I’m at so far:

• Base + sides slotted together cleanly

• Front panel lined up perfectly with all cut-outs

• Back panel sits upright and gives it a nice solid shape

Layout Planning

Before gluing it up, I’m taking a minute to think about internals:

• Where the DCC-EX board will sit

• Cable routing for Track A / Track B

• Making sure the USB port lines up properly and doesn’t interfere with the adjustable legs

• Leaving enough room so wiring doesn’t turn into spaghetti Next Steps Next job will be installing the front panel components:

• Wire up the display behind the cut-out

• Fit LEDs into their positions

• Line up the USB port After that, I’ll glue the enclosure together and start wiring everything up.

Thoughts So Far

I really liked the progress so far. Everything lines up the way I'd hoped, and it already looks like it’s going to be a neat little control unit when finished. Kind of has that “tiny command centre” vibe going on. I’ll update once I’ve got the electronics in and powered up 👍