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I finally got to tinker around with one of the menu-driven NEMA controllers at OSM this year and while I've started to get the hang of it, there's still a LOT for me to learn. However that being said, my dad continues to gripe about the noise the EF-20 makes despite the changeover to a DC coil and I'd like some more timing flexibility so once I get my funding set aside, I'll be jumping aboard the NEMA ship for my indoor display while preserving the EF-20 for a future 4-way acquisition.

I know Nick has the M50 which utilizes a menu-driven interface and I suppose for a complete noob, this would make far more sense as a jumping-off point than the old code-driven interfaces seen on the 170s. For the time being, I'm going to stick with a fixed cycle setup like my current EF-20 runs but would like the option to expand in the future to include detection, left turn phasing, overlaps and the like. Also I know discussing cost here is somewhat of a as it's only worth what somebody is willing to pay but I'd really like a ballpark figure to see what I'm getting myself into. Also a list of must-haves would be appreciated, too.

Much obliged.

Get ahold of your neighbor TacomaJoe for one of his awesome prewired backpanels. That will give you a huge head start.

The M50 is only one of many NEMA oriented machines that have a menu-driven interface. 170 units do not work in NEMA cabinets. Those are 2070 units...but thats for another day.

To start, you need to focus on NEMA TS-1 units for your basic run-of-the-mill NEMA system. Don't start with TS-2, its a whole different animal, especially TS-2, Type 1. Common models include the EPAC 300, Econolite ASC-8000, ASC/2, Traconex 390, TCT LMD8000(?), etc. I am most familiar with EPAC programming but there are people here that are well versed in Econolite, TCT, and other major brands. So the choice for the controller itself lies in what you are interested in.

There are several routes you can go for a NEMA setup...

The most cost prohibitive, but most fun option in my opinion is to get a full cabinet. I know traffic light wizard was stocking 2 and 4 phase Econolite cabinets with everything but the controller included. They will run you a little more in the pocket book, but they were brand new and ready for hookup..no modifications needed other than to get a controller and punch in some programming.

Another route, like Ian says, is to see if Tacoma Joe has a backpanel that he has modified to run without a monitor, and all self-contained. Joe's been quite generous in the past with his work, but this all depends on what he has available. He may have a controller too, but thats something you need to ask him about. But still, you should still get a cheap cabinet maybe from home depot to keep the electronics closed up.

You can also decide on doing a custom set-up. This one can turn out to be the cheapest route, but it also requires the most knowledge of the interworkings of the cabinet. Buy a controller and load switches separately and hardwire in what you need for a custom setup. Another option is to build your own backpanel for what you need and leave what you don't need disconnected. I have pinouts for the load switches and cables but you will need to feel comfortable tracing wires and knowing what you need, and what you can leave off for a home display.

So basically, it what you would want in the long run. Again my opinion is save the money and get a working full cabinet. I'd give traffic light wizard an email and see if they have any in stock, and if so check pricing, sizes, and phase capabilities for the cabinets. Factor in if you want a basic NEMA to do 2 phases, or if you want a larger cabinet to be able to expand over time

Hope this helps!