Overview bogobit signal braking modules (DC technology)

Brake modules are electronic circuits that let locos with digital decoder brake smoothly on a section of track.

There are different technological principles, on which brake modules can work. For more background information read our page on brake module technological basics. The brake modules described hereafter are based on the working principle "brake on DC". This term "brake on DC" is established among DCC users, while märklin users simply know it as the "märklin brake module" technology. The brake module generates a brake voltage, which is basically just negative DC, and feeds it to the track. The loco decoder detects this and then smoothly brakes the loco. "Brake on DC" works with all modern märklin decoders, and most compatible decoders. It also works with many DCC decoders, most of which need a certain configuration to enable it. Some DCC decoders differentiate between the voltage polarities, which allows direction dependent braking.

Also märklin users need not live without direction dependent braking. The Bremsmodul Oneway is designed to do this. The brake voltage is

This working principle is known to märklin users and to DCC users as "brake on dc".

bogobit Bremsmodul Classic

• direction independent brake module for märklin digital
• DCC brake module for decoders with "Brake on DC", possibly direction dependent
• Very easy track work, only one insulated track section necessary
• No trouble with short circuits at track insulation points
• free contact, e. g. usable for a daylight signal or switching of a stop track section

The bogobit Bremsmodul Classic is characterised by its very easy track work, because it only needs one insulated track section. This is possible thanks to the integrated current limit protection to avoid critical short circuits. It does not need a transition or stop track as usual with many other brake modules. This simplifies track construction work and allows an easy upgrade from an already built, conventionally controlled layout to a digitally controlled layout. The length of the insulated section must be as long as the locos' longest braking distance.

Continue with details on the bogobit Bremsmodul Classic

bogobit Bremsmodul Oneway

• Prototypical, direction dependent brake module for märklin digital
• Suitable for DCC decoders with "Brake on DC" functionality
• No trouble with short circuits at track insulation points

With the prototype, a signal applies only in one direction. Locos in opposite direction just keep on driving. For your model railway this can be done with the bogobit Bremsmodul Oneway. To detect the driving direction, the track must be insulated into two sections. Current sensors in each section detect the loco and the brake module can take appropriate action.

Operational mode 1 e. g. on free track: The brake module is used at one signal with braking in one direction.

• Simple track work, only two track sections necessary
• Locos brake only in one direction, they keep on driving in opposite direction

Operational mode 2 track in a station: The brake module is used at two signals with braking in either direction.

• Two or three track sections necessary
• A train pulls into the station and stops at the end of the track, only if the corresponding signal shows red.
• Note that this mode is not suited for DCC (two rail) operation

Continue with details on the bogobit Bremsmodul Oneway

It is simple, is is common - the Standard-Bremsmodul

• Budget price brake module
• For center-stud track
• Direction independent
• Common track installation requiring transition, brake, and stop section

The Standard-Bremsmodul is a low-prices brake module. The required track installation, with its three track sections, is well known among märklin users, like a de facto standard.

Continue with details on the Standard-Bremsmodul