DCC Lift decoder (THT version for Arduino Mega and Nano)

Decoder to control an elevator (lift) for model trains. This board should be assembled yourself (DIY); if you prefer a board that has already been assembled, see: https://oshwlab.com/aikopras/support-lift-controller.

After assembly, an Arduino MEGA, Arduino NANO, a RS485 communication module, as well as a 5V power module should still be mounted. The RS485 and 5V power module can be bought from AliExpress. For the RS485 module search for MAX485 module RS485 TTL. For the 5V module search for "LM 2596 Step-Down module " or "5v buck down mini". See for details: https://github.com/aikopras/Lift_Vitrine

The Arduino NANO is used to control one or two stepper motor drivers (X and Y = left and right). GRBL should be flashed on the NANO. The board has two (opto-decoupled) connectors for Limit switches.

The Arduino MEGA is the main processor that:

• Sends commands to the GRBL NANO
• Receives DCC commands from a DCC master station
• Sends feedback messages via the RS-Bus to the master station
• Has 14 digital inputs for buttons and/or IR Sensors
• Has 14 digital outputs for LEDs and/or IR Sensors
• Communicates via RS485 to other lift decoder boards

To offload the main lift decoder board, IR-Sensors as well as Buttons are controlled by separate boards.

Software and installation instructions can be found on GitHub: https://github.com/aikopras/Lift_Vitrine.

Some videos can be found on Youtube:

• Intro to the Loklift
• Loklift and Traincontroller

Discussions at some model train fora:

• Stummiforum (German)
• Beneluxspoor (Dutch)