At what amperage does this 180 Watt Powerhouse trip at? Also, what is the recommended fast acting glass fuse for this transformer to be used for a backup?
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
These are 10amp transformers, I can't tell you when it trips.
However, the breaker on the 180w brick may be the fastest one in the hobby and there is no need for a glass fuse
@RickO posted:These are 10amp transformers, I can't tell you when it trips.
However, the breaker on the 180w brick may be the fastest one in the hobby and there is no need for a glass fuse
RickO is correct as always. I would also add TVS diodes to protect the engine electronics. Many on the forum recommend 1.5KE36Ca diodes.
I'm not 100% sure of exactly what's in the "new" PH180 transformers, but the older ones actually had a dual-channel circuit breaker, so the "what current" does it trip at is not a simple question. The nominal trip value is 10 amps.
A sharp spike of high current will trip the breaker immediately, say in a derailment. However, a momentary slight overload or two for a short period of time will be tolerated for several seconds. If it's cumulative, then the breaker will trip. This accommodates the startup of a couple of dual Pulmore motored locomotives without tripping the breaker.
I've been using the PH180 for years, and it's by far the best breaker I know of on current transformers.
@gunrunnerjohn posted:I'm not 100% sure of exactly what's in the "new" PH180 transformers, but the older ones actually had a dual-channel circuit breaker, so the "what current" does it trip at is not a simple question. The nominal trip value is 10 amps.
A sharp spike of high current will trip the breaker immediately, say in a derailment. However, a momentary slight overload or two for a short period of time will be tolerated for several seconds. If it's cumulative, then the breaker will trip. This accommodates the startup of a couple of dual Pulmore motored locomotives without tripping the breaker.
I've been using the PH180 for years, and it's by far the best breaker I know of on current transformers.
Gunrunnerjohn,
I have seen comments by you that additional fuses isn't required due to the quick response of the PH180. If I just wanted a fast acting glass fuse as backup would you recommend a10amp? I differently will be adding a TVS at every connection point as highly recommended by you and many others on this forum.
Thank you for teaching me and other's about this great hobby!
For a fast blowing fuse, I'd lean to something more like 15 amps. It'll blow plenty fast. 
