EKR Adams 415 DCC Sound on Custom Rolling Road Programmer and Test Stand

After the success of the SPROGii DCC programmer/throttle set up, I set about to make a nice test and running arrangement. I purchased a rolling road test stand/track, and cut the guide bars down to accommodate the largest of the models I have (and will likely ever get based on my interests): the LMS Garratt.

I then turned my attention to the SPROGii hardware itself. The design has inputs on both sides of the box with the track leads coming from one of these sides, which makes for an awkward setup for how I am using it. I fit a DC plug style connector between the power cord and the unit, which would allow me to move the power input to the same side as the computer cable attachment.

Finally, I made a custom oak "table" to mount everything to. I wanted it to be slightly raised so I could sling the SPROGii under it as a completely self-contained unit and to lift the model off the table, and to be heavy enough to help dampen vibration and extraneous vibration sounds. Using foam weather stripping tape, I also isolated the SPROGii unit and rolling road from the oak table, further reducing vibration and noise.

The setup works very well, and is nice and solid. The rolling road sits on the oak table held in orientation by a set of domed dowel pins I made, making it possible to remove or alter the system (every component is installed so it could be easily removed without tools).


This video shows a test of the EKR Adams 415 Class "Radial" tank on the test stand, operated by JMRI Decoder Pro. Please pardon my fingers, and the extra squeaks from my desk chair!!