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    Make a model train scale-speed monitor

    Jan 23, 2023 5 minutes

    YOU’LL NEED THIS

    • Raspberry Pi 3 B+

    • 16GB SD card

    • Raspberry Pi OS Lite (used: 4 April 2022)

    • GPIO Zero 1.6.2

    • IR sensors

    Have you ever seen something and thought, “I can do that”? This writer’s inspiration came after using a commercial device to determine the speed of a model train. The speed limit posted for a real train entering a siding is 16kph.

    So let’s use a Raspberry Pi, with some external infrared (IR) sensors mounted to a block of wood of known dimensions, to establish the scale speed of a model train entering the siding on a model railway layout.

    Typical full-size trains run at up to around 100kph, depending on limiting factors. The class or track quality determines the maximum running speed and the ability to carry passengers. Other factors,

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