Reed switches in Model Train Tracks
Today modelers create model railway layouts as a hobby, recreating real locations and periods throughout history. Railway modeling has become quite realistic concerning the details of the models and very authentic when it comes to the locations being recreated.
Reed Switches are used in several areas to ensure the authenticity of the real world trains are met with regards to the changing of tracks, changing of lights, and to ensure level crossings are opened only after a train has passed. Reed Switches are placed under the tracks of model trains and each of the trains engines and last bogeys are fitted with one magnet. The signaling of the red and green lights or the opening of level crossings can now be controlled after a train has passed the signaling point and this almost certainly makes causes pleasing response from those viewing the model trains in action. These outputs which control the lights can also be given to reed relays to actually cut off power to a train when a red light is on. Latching sensors are also used at junctions to remember whether a train has passed or not.
Application Classification
Applications are classified as Position Sensing, Pulse Counting, Electromagnetic or Relay, Temperature Sensing or Magnet Biasing types. This application is classified as follows and the link gives more information on best practices to help select the most suitable AT band and matching magnet.
Magnet Biasing Type
 | Magnet Biasing type Vane application Some special field applications, for the sake of circuit logic, security concerns, or a power Continue reading Nov 30, 2020 |
Recommended Products
The Reed Switches and Sensors used in such applications need to be robust, durable and efficient in meeting a high life expectancy. Our engineers work hard in life testing our products under various conditions, and our intention is to ensure end product durability and life. Although we wouldn’t want to restrict any of our products for use in only certain applications, the recommended products for use in this application are listed below.
MS-324 Miniature Flat Pack Reed Sensor with Actuator
 | Drawing of MS-324 Magnet Sensor starFeatures10W Contact Rating. Normally Open contact. Three sensitivity bands. Sputtered Ruthenium Continue reading Oct 30, 2020 |
MM-1018 Micro Miniature Reed Switch
 | This 10.0 mm long, Form A type Micro Miniature reed switch is designed for moderate power, low load applications. The fast operate Continue reading Nov 8, 2022 |
MS-104 Ultra Miniature PCB Mountable Reed Sensor
 | Drawing of MS-104Drawing of MS-104 Pad Layout starFeatures5W Contact Rating. 10.1 mm PCB Pitch. Normally Open contact. Two Continue reading Oct 30, 2020 |
MS-105 Miniature PCB Mountable Reed Sensor
 | Drawing of MS-105 Reed SensorDrawing of MS-105 PCB Pad Layout starFeatures10W Contact Rating. 12.7 mm PCB Pitch. Normally Open Continue reading Oct 30, 2020 |