Detailed track plans for automated layouts illustrate how the TBC is used for block control and can help with automated layout design. Layouts from a simple loop, powered with one train transformer, to a folded crossover loop with a passing loop are shown.

Each automated layout is described with a track diagram, summary of Train Block Controllers and configurations employed, train power needed, and a complete, detailed wiring list for implementing the automated layout.

The layouts can be implemented with any track system. See Track Systems . Track blocks must be "coasting distance," or longer. See Block Control .

A track diagram identifies each block, shows block boundaries, and train direction.

Blocks are identified with the number in the ellipse. "Leading" track block numbers start with an "L." "Trailing" track block numbers start with a "T." Block identifiers are referenced for center-rail and outside-rail connections to Train Block Controllers.

Block boundaries are indicated with the small circle. A block boundary means isolation of the center-rail and the control outside-rail.

Train direction is shown with the train and arrow.

Train Block Controllers are identified and each configuration assigned. Each track block is assigned a TBC. TBC identifiers are used for wiring connections. Train power sources are selected and assigned to track blocks.

Detailed wiring does not show board power, outside-rail common, or interconnect common connections. These are shown in the Train Block Controller Operator Manual.

Wiring is shown with wire list tables. Multiple tables show the wiring for each class: for example, "Block Outside-Rails to TBC Controller Outside-Rail Inputs. Text explains the general wiring for each table. Each entry in a table shows one wire connection.

The automated layout track plans will open in a separate, full screen window. Click bars at the bottom of each screen can be used to display the next layout in the same window. Use the "Close" box to close the window and return to this screen.

The Six Block Loop is the simplest practical automated train layout. It will run two trains.

This automated layout extends the simple Six Block Loop with multiple transformer circuits for train power.

The Two Crossover Loops automated track plan shows a long track loop "folded" into a smaller layout space using a track crossover.

The Two Crossover Loops with Passing Loop automated track plan adds two track switches and a "passing" loop to the Two Crossover Loops layout. The passing loop allows the order of trains to change, providing more variety of action.

Three-Rail Innovations' "Train Block Controller" implements a block control system for your three-rail train layout.