Infrared Detectors
The NightScope™ Infrared Detector reliably senses trains in all lighting conditions. Just 3 inches long and less than 3/8 inches in diameter, the Detector mounts below your track with two small holes in the ballast between the rails. When a train is present, the Detector activates its two opposite-polarity outputs, "Detect High" and "Detect Low". These outputs are designed to drive a wide variety of popular model railroad electronics.
Reliable & easy infrared train detection for model railroads, for all scales
- Independent of layout lighting: bright, dim, or no light
- No false triggering from other light sources (including infrared)
- No changes to track wiring, locomotives, rolling Production — no gaps to cut, no resistor wheel sets, no reflectors!
- Perfect for night operations
Unlimited model railroad applications
- Two outputs of opposite polarity deliver 200 mA each when activated — enough to directly drive relays, switch motors, or dozens of LEDs
- Directly drives inputs to model railroad electronics from Digitrax, C/MRI, Logic Rail Technologies, ITT Sound Modules, and others
- Delayed Response Detector holds outputs 2 seconds after train departs
- Great for computer control applications
Simple installation
- Self-aligning component installs in the roadbed between the rails
- Powered directly from other electronics or a filtered 5-16 VDC supply
- 18 inch wires for extra reach
- Onboard LED lights when train is detected — easy to verify installation
- Nothing to adjust
Instant Response Detector Model No. NS-350
Out of Production.
The Instant Response Detector reacts to train arrivals and departures by immediately changing its outputs. This is the Detector for fast acting electronics that expect and can handle brief changes in detection, such as between railcars.
Delayed Response Detector Model No. NS-352
Out of Production.
The red-jacketed Delayed Response Detector activates its outputs instantly when a train is detected. It will hold its outputs active for 2 seconds after the train departs. This prevents outputs from "bouncing" between active and inactive during gaps between railcars. The onboard LED still responds instantly, aiding installation and testing.
Customer Comments
"The NightScope IR detectors are working flawlessly controlling my grade crossings. No problems at all.
"Great products, keep up the good work. I can't wait for your future product releases!"
— John Parker, Fall River Division, BNSF Ry
"I completed the installation of your 6 IR detectors to control a Custom Signals Highway-Rail Grade Crossing controller. Works great and no special interface circuits needed.
"Thanks for having a great product."
— Eric Peterson, Chessie System Railroads
"Just wanted to say hello and let you know we really like these units.
"The NightScopes are currently supporting two reversing loops. We plan to mount NightScopes at the entrances of our Helix so we can signal traffic at the remote end."
— Gilbert Model Railroad Club, Gilbert, AZ
"Your sensor is the best and most versatile I have seen. I will most likely buy more as I think thru applications for these capabilities."
— David Parks, Western Maryland Ry and Baltimore & Ohio RR
"Your detectors are a rail enthusiast's dream -- just connect them up, switch on and they work. PERFECT!
"Thank you so much for helping me to solve the problem of reliable infra-red detection and congratulations on such a splendid product!"
— Chris Howarth, Wellington Valley Rail Road, Australia
How It Works
NightScope™ Infrared Detector mounts between the rails and beneath the roadbed, as in this view of HO track on cork roadbed.
With no rail car present, infrared pulses are not reflected back to the sensor.
Passing rail cars reflect infrared pulses back to the sensor, triggering the Detectors outputs.