Subject: Controlling MTH RealTrax Turnouts w/DCC - Can't Be Done ??
QUESTION: Has anyone ever controlled these RealTrax turnouts using DCC ??
Problem: I've tentatively concluded that we can NOT use DCC to control MTH RealTrax turnouts ??
I'm hoping someone can prove me WRONG on this point.
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1. The Details:
- Often DCC will operate devices designed for AC (lights, Z-Stuff block detectors & relays) -- since DCC is "somewhat" similar to AC.
- But I've tentatively concluded that we CANNOT control RealTrax turnouts with DCC.
- WHAT I DID:
I tried hooking up a RealTrax turnout using DCC track power -- using an NCE PowerCab and Tam Valley Booster -- with the Booster's 5 Amp. power supply set at it's maximum of 24 volts -- see enclosed photo below. - When I try to activate the turnout by pushing the control arm on the turnout controller -- all I "get" is a very faint buzzing sound from the turnout -- but no motion.
- If I operate that same turnout using 16 volts AC instead of DCC, it "throws" left and right just fine -- just like it should.
- And the self-aligning "non-derail" feature on the diverging ends (when the 2 outer rails are connected together) works just like it's supposed to.
.
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2. The Conclusion:
- The MTH (and Lionel) turnout motors are electrically "tied into" the track -- for the self-aligning feature -- and you cannot (as far as I can tell) electrically "isolate" the turnout motor from the track power.
- NCE Corp. makes the Switch-Kat (for Kato & LGB), Switch-It (for Tortoise), and Snap-It (for American Flyer & S Helper) for controlling various types of turnout motors.
- But I don't think any of these would work properly where the turnout motor is electrically "non-isolated" from the track -- such as is the Realtrax (or Lionel).
.
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3. The Solution ??:
- To operate O-Gauge turnouts using DCC, I think we would need to use Ross Custom turnouts -- or some other brand where the turnout motor is electrically "isolated" from the track ??
