022 switches

There is no limit to the number of switches, except that imposed by the lamps, since only one or two will be operated at any time.  But the incandescent bulbs are a killer; figure 5 watts each, according to the old Lionel handbook.

You can power all of the switches from either the KW or ZW with plenty of power to spare. The only constant load on the transformers is the lights in the switches and controllers. The power needed to throw the switch is only momentary, therefore the load on the transformer is not constant.

LED bulbs may be expensive, but the decrease in power consumption (in the form of heat) allows more power to other switches/accessories. It's a tradeoff.

Larry

Eddie,

   The 1st thing you want to due is replace all the bulbs in those 022 Switches & Switch Controllers with LED's, it will cut your voltage draw per switch way down to about 1/3 the normal rate, after that use one channel of the ZW for the Switches daisy chained together.   If you are using DCS, build in the proper Block method with the 12 track discipline, and you will be fine.

PCRR/Dave

What about using LED's in place of the bulbs?

Well thanks everyone. I guess I will spring for LED's and still split the switches between two transformers.  On my home layout I have 30 switches all with LED's and split between two ZW's and I KW. I guess I knew the answer but I was hoping for a better one.

As usual, the Forum crowd came through,

Ed 

What about identifying an actual p/n; vendor; etc. when an LED alternative is suggested?

This vendor supplies LEDs to fit most older equipment that are drop-in replacements. They also supply regular incandescent bulbs.

Larry