Do you want to do a Carrera slot car digital conversion? First, you should know that digital slot car racing is a relatively new addition to the hobby.
If you have been in the world of slot car racing for quite a while, you might be considering making that digital shift. Fortunately, converting your analog slot car system into a digital one is fairly straightforward if you know the steps.
Carrera Digital Conversion
What does digital slot car racing offer that the older analog one doesn’t? It all boils down to two words: expanded options.
With digital racing, more than 1 car can be placed in a lane but each vehicle is still individually controlled by its racer. A basic digital set can have 6 cars per lane but advanced ones can allow up to 20 per time.
Aside from more vehicles per race, digital races allow for advanced programming which makes races more authentic. Where analog slot car racing is simply about getting the best time in one lane, digital racing is more like real-world racing where cars can shift lanes and overtake one another to get to the finish line first.
The process of a Carrera digital conversion from an analog system to a digital one will be time-consuming. However, it is possible if you have the right tools.
Step 1: Chipping
In order to do a Carrera digital conversion, you have to give them a “brain” of sorts by way of a chip. To do this, you will have to strip the car down to its most basic of components. While you are at it, you must remove the lugs that keep these components together to make the chip fit.
As for the chip, it’s best to use ones like the C7006 but you would have to remove the white plug and the wires with a hobby knife. This part is the thickest component in the chip and makes it hard to fit in some slot cars, especially Ferrari types.
You also have the option to replace the four wires on the chip with thinner ones. However, if you are using a chip made by Scalextric, you should refer to the wire assignments below:
B – Yellow
R – Green
G – Red
- Black
Note: This wiring scheme is exclusive to Scalextric-produced chips. With other manufacturers, the blue wire goes to slot B while the red wire goes to slot R and so on.
Once the wires are in their respective holes, all that is left to do is to seal them with a soldering gun. Then, you must place the completed chip between the front axle and the tub.
Step 2: Sensor Installation
An IR sensor has to be installed in your slot car to make it respond to control inputs from the racer. To do this, you must drill a hole with a 1mm drill bit and then widen it using a 3mm bit.
We recommend that you use a pin vise to drill the holes. A standard hand drill is just too powerful and you would break something inside the car if you use it.
Once the hole is complete, all that is left to do is to mount the sensor in it. You may also want to apply a bit of glue at the bottom of the sensor too for added security.
Step 3: Wiring
First, the most daunting challenge now is to make everything fit inside the car. Next, have the green wire go to the left side of the guide while the yellow wire goes to the right.
As for the black wire, it should go to the pad furthest from the motor and the red will go to the pad nearest to it.
This is where a lot of trial and error will come into play as you’d have to make sure that the wires, sensor, and motor are properly connected to one another. As such, it is best that you keep the car open as you conduct the tests.
Once you are satisfied with the results, you can start reassembling the slot car. Then, give it a test run.
Carrera Slot Car Digital Conversion
If you have done right, you will have a slot car that runs at its optimum speeds. In addition, it will do so without the restrictions on the rules of analog racing. Of course, this is just one vehicle out of many.
For the optimum digital racing experience, you should also have other cars converted. Also, you should optimize the race course for digital slot racing as well.
How Do Digital Slot Cars Change Lanes?
Digital slot cars have the ability to change lanes thanks to a system of magnets and sensors that are located on the track. These work together to tell the car which lane it is supposed to be in.
The process starts with the car going over a magnet that is embedded in the track. This sends a signal to the sensor that tells the car which lane it is supposed to be in. The car then uses this information to adjust its position on the track.
This system is not perfect, however, and there are times when the car will mistakenly think that it is in the wrong lane. When this happens, the car will usually correct itself after a few moments.
The biggest advantage of this system is that it allows for a much more realistic racing experience. It also eliminates the need for drivers to constantly switch lanes during a race.
What Are the Disadvantages of Digital Slot Cars?
The biggest disadvantage of digital slot cars is the cost. They are generally more expensive than their analog counterparts. In addition, they require a special track that can be expensive to purchase or build.
Another disadvantage is that digital slot cars can be more difficult to control than analog cars. This is because the driver has to constantly be aware of the car’s position on the track. If the driver is not paying attention, the car may end up in the wrong lane.
Finally, digital slot cars can be less durable than analog cars. This is because they have more delicate electronic components that can be damaged if the car is crashed.
Should I Buy An Analog Or Digital Slot Car?
The type of slot car you buy should be based on your budget and the type of racing you want to do. If you are just starting out, then an analog car is a good choice. They are less expensive and easier to control.
If you are more experienced, or if you want to race competitively, then a digital car is a better choice. They are more expensive, but they offer a more realistic racing experience.
Whatever you choose, make sure you have fun!
Are Their Disadvantages of Analog Slot Cars?
Analog slot cars are less expensive and easier to control; however, they don’t offer the same realistic racing experience as digital slot cars. In addition, they may be less durable than digital cars because they have more delicate electronic components.
For some, analog slot cars may be the preferred choice because digital cars can be more difficult to control and require a special track. In addition, digital cars are typically more expensive.
Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide which type of car is best for them. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider all factors before making a decision.
Can You Still Buy Slot Cars?
Yes, you can still buy slot cars. However, they are not as popular as they once were.
The decline in popularity is due to the rise of video games and other electronic entertainment options. In addition, slot cars require a special track that can be expensive to purchase or build.
For those who still enjoy racing slot cars, there are a number of companies that still produce them. These companies include Scalextric, Carrera, and Ninco.
What Are the Best Slot Cars?
The best slot cars are the ones that best suit your needs and budget. If you are just starting out, then an analog car is a good choice. They are less expensive and easier to control.
If you are more experienced, or if you want to race competitively, then a digital car is a better choice. They are more expensive, but they offer a more realistic racing experience.
Final Thoughts
Slot cars are a fun way to race your friends or family members. They come in both analog and digital varieties, so you can choose the type that best suits your needs.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start racing!
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