How do I wire analog volt and amp meters to each of my 4 loops on my Lionel tubular track?
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Rich is right on track. He shows one. This drawing shows three, connected in the same way as he presented, each to a different track. The 4th one (not shown) would work in this way as well.
Mike
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To put this in electrical terms…
- The AMP meter is wired in SERIES with the load
- The VOLT meter is wired in PARALLEL with the load
Any recommendations for the type or brand of meters?
Thank you Rich
I’m interested in doing this as well. If using a MTH TIU, does it matter if the ammeter goes before or after the TIU? Basically wondering if it will somehow disturb the DCS signal if used on the output side. I’m well versed on shunt type ammeters for DC but not so much for AC. Thanks.
You can put the ammeter between the transformer and the TIU. (Before the TIU.)
Thank you. I plan on putting one before each of the 4 channels.
Do the Amp Meters require a separate shunt?
Most 10 amp meters are likely to have the shunt inside them. The current being measured goes directly through the meter itself. My diagram above illustrates the connections that correspond to this situation.
Most 100 amp (and above) meters would likely connect to an external shunt resistor. In this case the current being measured would flow through the shunt, instead of the meter, and the meter would monitor the shunt in order to display the measured current value. My diagram above doesn't illustrate this situation.
For currents in between these two it could go either way.
Mike
Does anyone know if there are any digital meters for mounting the same way?
It is difficult to find digital AC voltmeters that read accurately at our low voltages.
@Patrick1544 posted:Do the Amp Meters require a separate shunt?
No.
@trainczar
I used round panel meters on my homemade control cart. The only thing they are missing is lighting. They are under $10 each on the bay so I ordered an extra one to see if I could put LEDs in the housing... but that is a rainy-day project.
Search for AC 0-10A Round Analog Panel Meter Ammeter & AC 0-20V Round Analog Panel Voltage Meter
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