More Information - Pi-SPROG 3 Plus
Pi-SPROG 3 Plus
Pi-SPROG 3 Plus is a DCC interface that connect directly to a Raspberry Pi computer.
Pi-SPROG 3 Plus is a DCC interface with dual integrated 2.5Amp boosters (depending on the power supply) that will drive a wide range of layouts.
The two booster outputs may be used as:
- Main track and dedicated programming track (isolated from the layout)
- Main track and layout connected programming track (allowing trains to be driven from the layout onto the programmin track)
- Main track and secondary main power district with auto-reverse
Using a Raspberry Pi 4 model B (recommended, but earlier version can be used) with built-in WiFi you can easily build a fully featured DCC system with wireless throttles using Apple iPhones/iPods with the WiThrottle app or Android phones with the Engine Driver app. Free versions of both apps are available from the respective app stores. Paid for version of the apps are also available with greater functionality.
Pi-SPROG 3 Plus benefits from our 17+ years experience in designing, selling and supporting the original SPROG family, with 1000s sold around the world.
Please note: No documentation included - please download the SPROG 3 Plus Family User Guide.
Availability
Pi-SPROG 3 Plus is available as an individual modules for those users who already own a suitable Raspberry Pi and are happy to configure their own system. Full instructions to create a suitable Linux image are available as downloads from our website.
Software
The Pi-SPROG 3 Plus is supported by the popular
DecoderPro software for decoder programming and layout control. JMRI version
4.24, or later, is required.
We have created instructions for configuring the Raspberry Pi Operating system
Power Supplies
The Pi-SPROG 3 Plus requires a regulated DC power supply of 12 - 25V. A current capacity of at least 4.3 Amp is recommended. Use of a lower capacity supply (e.g. for a low power dedicated programming setup) will require manual configuration of the Pi-SPROG 3 Plus's current limit. A small amount of power is taken from the Raspberry Pi's 3.3V supply, through the GPIO connector. Using separate power supplies in this way guarantees that a problem with the DCC booster supply will not affect the normal operation of the Raspberry Pi.
Example Systems
Wireless DCC Command Station
Use the WiThrottle or EngineDriver App on your mobile 'phone or tablet to drive your trains. The Raspberry Pi 4 model B includes the WiFi adapter. A separate USB WiFi adapter is required with a Raspberry Pi 2 model B.
Add a touchscreen, HDMI monitor, mouse and keyboard to use on-screen panels to control the layout (with suitable hardware) or add extra on-screen throttles.
Alternatively, connect through the Raspberry Pi's wired network connection to a PC or laptop.
Standalone DCC Programmer
Use a Raspberry Pi with a touchscreen or HDMI monitor, mouse and keyboard to create a standalone programming track, based on DecoderPro, capable of programming virtually any DCC decoder.
Use the wired or wireless network connection to use a PC or laptop in place of the touchscreen or monitor.