Manual

tams elektronik
Power-Splitter tams elektronik
2.1. Background information
Watchdog
The watchdog is used in PC-controlled systems to check whether the digital signals are
transmitted in a booster circuit. For this purpose, the central unit (controlled by the PC
software) sends a DCC turnout setting command to a turnout address assigned to the Power-
Splitter at intervals of max. 5 seconds. As soon as the Power-Splitter no longer receives these
commands, it automatically switches off the booster sections.
For test purposes, the watchdog function can be activated and deactivated by manually
sending a turnout setting command to the assigned turnout address.
Inrush time
The sum of the charging currents of buffer capacitors on vehicle decoders (especially sound
decoders) and additional external backup capacitors can become so high when the system is
switched on that the short circuit shutdown of the booster reacts immediately. This makes it
difficult to start up the system when the short circuit cut-off is active.
After switching on, the Power-Splitter can accept an increased current of 5 A per booster
section for a short time (adjustable up to max. 500 ms) and tolerates the brief collapse of the
voltage. This time is sufficient to charge buffer capacitors and support electrolytic capacitors.
Only if the current does not drop again after the set time and the voltage does not rise again,
the short circuit disconnection of the Power-Splitter reacts (because then a "real" short circuit
can be assumed).
For further information on inrush current, see RailCommunity standard RCN 530 (at:
www.railcommunity.de).
8 | Your Power-Splitter