More Information - Pi SPROG 3

Introduction

Pi-SPROG 3 is a low cost DCC interface that connect directly to a Raspberry Pi computer. Using a Raspberry Pi 2 model B with a WiFi adapter, a Raspberry Pi 3 model B, or a Pi 4 model B (recommended) 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 benefits from our 15+ years experience in designing, selling and supporting the original SPROG family, with 1000s sold around the world.

Pi-SPROG 3

Pi-SPROG 3 is a DCC interface with an integrated 2.5Amp booster that will drive a wide range of layouts, depending on the total current requirements of the loco fleet and accessories. In this respect it is similar in operation to the SPROG II and SPROG 3.

Availability

Pi-SPROG 3 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.

We also supply fully configured and tested systems that will work "out of the box" for those users who do not have a Raspberry Pi or do not feel so confident in the setup process.

Software

The Pi-SPROG 3 is currently supported by the popular DecoderPro software for decoder programming and layout control.

We have created instructions for configuring the Raspberry Pi Operating system

Instructions to create a Raspbian Buster Linux image for Raspberry Pi 4 model B configured as wireless access point.

To help users in setting up their system we also sell pre-configured Raspbian images, including all of the software required, on an SD Card

Power Supplies

The Pi-SPROG 3 requires a regulated DC power supply of 12 - 18V. A current capacity of at least 2.5 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'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.