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Inspired by the 00LS-Club 'Live-Drive' equipment I have made a different approach and decided to modify and upgrade one of my Hornby Controllers X5040.

The upgrade package contains the following basic features: - Traditional speed regulator handle now operating in 'Live-Drive' mode. - Speed regulator operational even if heater power is switched off, thus supporting loco

test runs with compressed air. - Low material cost.

The following optional features can be added: - Extra switch for reduction of heater power by more than 40%, thus providing extended

running time due to less steam blow-off as well as lower heat load for various loco

components. - Connector for cable remote control unit or other auxiliary equipment.

Compared to the 'Live-Drive' box solution there are the following additional advantages: - All in one casing, no need for extra box and cabling. - Direction indicator LEDs always active even if remote control unit is used. - Constant DC-control voltage for servo motor independent from selected heater level. - Voltmeter shows correct track voltage during long control pulses. - Support of direction indicator LEDs installed in remote control unit.

Compared to the 'Live-Drive' box solution there are the following disadvantages: - Need for opening and modifying the Controller. - No switching between 'standard' and 'Live-Drive' operation.

The upgrade package consists of: - Relay board (incl. option AUX-connector), size 121 x 30.5 mm. - R8-Replacement, size 121 x 24 mm. - Main board modification and some mechanical work. - Option Low power switch.

There is a 19 pages PDF (3 Mbyte) available including detailed information and upgrade instructions. Due to the fact you have to open and modify the Controller I think the interest will be limited.

Advice from admin whether and how to publish the PDF is appreciated.