Model Train Journal

All:

I have the need to connect multiple (3 to be exact) DZ-2001L's (shown below) to a TMCC Command Base.



The problem is the female stand-offs on the right (either side of the DB9 connector). In the past, I have removed them and the housing and just pushed it onto the Command Base. This time, I'm looking for a more secure way to attach them to the Command Base and to each other.

I've already tried reversing the stand-off. It didn't work. Can anyone suggest a solution or identify the type of screw or nut I might need?

Thanks,

George

One solution would be to contact the mfgr/importer/creator* of the DZ-xxxx
device and learn how he would interface his devices with those of other mfgrs.

At one time cables were made/available/( and sometimes necessary) to interface with other
devices using D-subminature connectors (in the toy train world).

I've already tried reversing the stand-off. It didn't work. Can anyone suggest a solution
or identify the type of screw or nut I might need?

The "screw or nut" that you are looking for (sometimes) can be found on the opposite
'gender' of a compatible mating plug.
Best source = new, used, salvage, discarded, obsolete, computer, 'meeces', 'Game-Boy', , ,
controllers/devices/cables.

(You get to do the 'thumb-mashing', (I'm double jointed and cannot be more presise...))


*mfgr=Z-Stuff/Dennis Zander.
I believe he is an advertisor on another forum that you cross-post to.

4-40 screws. You may have better luck trying to adapt computer hardware or making your own "brackets" using sheet metal and drill/tap for 4-40 threads.

MYmoo wrote:One solution would be to contact the mfgr/importer/creator* of the DZ-xxxx
device and learn how he would interface his devices with those of other mfgrs.

At one time cables were made/available/( and sometimes necessary) to interface with other
devices using D-subminature connectors (in the toy train world).

I've already tried reversing the stand-off. It didn't work. Can anyone suggest a solution
or identify the type of screw or nut I might need?

The "screw or nut" that you are looking for (sometimes) can be found on the opposite
'gender' of a compatible mating plug.
Best source = new, used, salvage, discarded, obsolete, computer, 'meeces', 'Game-Boy', , ,
controllers/devices/cables.

(You get to do the 'thumb-mashing', (I'm double jointed and cannot be more presise...))


*mfgr=Z-Stuff/Dennis Zander.
I believe he is an advertisor on another forum that you cross-post to.

I did contact Dennis and he responded. His said that removing the housing and pressure fitting the two together was his suggestion as well. I bought some 3x8 metric screws and tried them. The thread is a bit too fine.

George

chuck wrote:4-40 screws. You may have better luck trying to adapt computer hardware or making your own "brackets" using sheet metal and drill/tap for 4-40 threads.

Thanks Chuck. I went through my stash of computer screws looking for something. Then I bought 3x8M screws but they didn't work. Someone on the other forum suggested using removing all standoffs and using twist ties to hold them together.

Right now, that's looking like the solution.

I also intend to support these 3 DZ-2001s with a small shelf.

George