Building New Layout

If you want truly remote switches for Fastrack, you need the Command Fastrack switches, those can be controlled with a TMCC or Legacy system directly from the remote.  "Remote" for Fastrack switches just means you can wire the switch controller to them and operate them "remotely".  "Command" for Fastrack switches means you can operate them from a TMCC or Legacy system from your handheld remote.

If you do not want to throw the switches manually you have two options that I am seeing. Option one make a console for the switch buttons or option two to use the hand held unit to throw switches  you would have to have the accessory module for the hand held unit to work. Either of those options you still have to run wires to the switches for power and ground...................Paul

I guess it would be possible to make and run a "switch console" from one spot. how long is the wiring for a remote switch and can I make it longer with a splice? Without a transformer, what actually "powers" the switch though? Sounds like my best bet is to find that Mopac engine that I want in TMCC or Legacy. Looks like a more expensive "Holiday Layout" than I originally planned....LOL

You can make the wiring for a remote switch as long as you need it, 100 feet isn't out of the question at all.

Thanks, but until I get either of the "command" systems, what actually powers the switch? One end of wire to switch and the other end to the switch button....is there a battery in the button or what is the actual power? I wish I had a good Train Store close!

Remote switches come with a control that you wire to the switch.  I guess I don't understand the question.  You power the switches with either track power or accessory power.

OK, like I said, I'm a TRUE Newbie. You would think a guy that spent 40 years throwing switches would understand a little more about Model RR. So I have to have some sort of transformer anyway (power or accessory) so I might as well go with a TMCC or Legacy MoPac engine and run everything. Thanks  

Well, you can certainly have remote switches with any control type, so that's not a requirement.  If you want wireless remote control of the switches, you'd be looking at the full Legacy or DCS systems to have walk-around switch capability.

Another cheap remote option for a couple of switches might be one of these, eBay item#: 181346872842

OK...Thanks, I'll check that out

That one would do two switches, there are other options with more channels.  I didn't do an extensive search as there are hundreds of similar products on eBay.

Thanks again, I will have a total of 6 switches (two Y's) I can see that as a cheaper option. I guess first thing I need to do is find my MoPac GP unit and see which Control Type it is and go from there. Or if I find the MoPac in a LionChief+, I will look into an accessory power plant.

You'll need power for anything you run.