This FAQ covers the full Trixbrix automation line - cables and power, controllers, servo motors, and detection and signalling.
You can chain up to 6 × 90 cm extension cables between a controller and a Trixbrix switch, or 4 × 90 cm between a controller and an original Lego switch. Lego switches need more torque, so they tolerate less voltage drop.
Up to 3 switches can share a single output via splitter cables. Outputs are switched one after another (not simultaneously), so the full amperage is always drawn from a single output at a time.
Up to 3 controllers can be powered from one supply, depending on how loaded each controller is. If every controller is fully populated with 4 servos, avoid switching points on multiple controllers at once. If you draw too much power, a controller simply resets - that's your signal to add another supply.
You can use our power supply or a regular micro-USB adapter rated around 2 A. Each servo draws about 0.5 A while switching and essentially nothing when idle, so the limit is almost entirely about simultaneous switching.
No. When two switches are connected to a single controller, they always change state together — pressing the button on the controller toggles both. Truly independent control requires two separate controllers.
We don't offer custom-length cables - we source them ready-made. If you want to go DIY, our extension cables are standard 3-wire 26 AWG finished with JR-type male/female servo connectors. Both the wire and the connectors are widely available. A crimping tool is strongly recommended - attaching JR connectors by hand is painful.
Yes. Our automation works with external I/O boards such as Arduino Uno. Useful specs if you're wiring your own setup:
Wiring diagram for the Train Signal Mast with LEDs
Wiring diagram for the Boom Barrier Servo Motor
Wiring diagram for the Servo Motor for Original Lego Switches
Wiring diagram for the Left Switch Servo Motor
Wiring diagram for the Right Switch Servo Motor
The train detector works over a very short distance - around 2 cm. If you need to trigger an action on two parallel tracks, you can connect multiple detectors through a splitter cable and place one at each track.
In boom barrier mode the LEDs blink alternately. In switch mode, one of the two lights is on; when the controller's state changes, the opposite light comes on (no blinking).
No. We don't plan to produce train signals with more LEDs.
We plan to release a series of short videos explaining how each automation product works.
