I'm installing TMCC on a 36' by 16' layout that has just one main line but with several by-passes, a turntable, and a passenger yard; its divided into four blocks powered by 2 TPC 400s, each with 2-135 Powerhouses. I plan to use 1 TPC 400 with 2-135 Powerhouses to power 2 blocks.
Reading the instructions, its not clear to me what added features using a TMCC Block Power Controller gives the operator. Does anyone have experience using block power controllers in similar situation?
Thanks, Chad
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Chad,
The BPC is best for conventional layouts where you want to control one track block from two separate transformers. The BPC allows you to control up to four blocks between two transformers.
If you just want to turn on/off power to the blocks, it is more efficient to use the Accessory Switch Controller. It will control up to eight blocks, but from only one transformer.
Both the BPC and ASC have a maximum rating of 15 amps (I think, maybe 20). So you need to be careful on how many tracks you have powered at the same time.
Ron
You can also use the SC-2, six totally independent relays that you can switch six blocks, each with 10 or more amps of capacity. Note that you have to do the small mod on channel 0 if you want to use that channel to switch power.
The BPC also allows you to switch your blocks from conventional to TMCC operation. Set one TPC to conventional and one to TMCC and you can run it either way on any block.
John, or anybody,
Does the SC-2 switch the hot as opposed to the SC-1 which I understand switches the ground?
Chad
The SC-2 can switch anything. Other than the first channel, the relay contacts are totally isolated. With a simple mod, the first channel can be totally isolated as well.
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