I know that this has been discussed many times before, but I would just like a link to a fast acting circuit breaker to put in line with a ZW to protect modern electronics.
Thanks
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Search the forum for TVS (Transient Voltage Suppressor), that's what you need. There's oodles of info.
A circuit breaker mainly protects the layout wiring and the transformer.
Pete
DCC specalties makes what you want and they are avalable thru Tony's trains. I have two of them and they work great. they have ajustable amperage ratings. not cheap but well worth it.
Good advice from Texas Pete regarding the TVS.
You want a Mouser electronics # 1.5KE36A TVS . Its bi-directional, you can't hook it up backwards. Send me your snail mail address and I will mail you half a dozen. I bought a bunch several years ago and don't need all.
You connect the TVS across the line like a short [on your pw ZW, wire between the "U" and "A" or "U" and "D"] if operating two railpower districts. Also install one "downstream" at your track connections. The ideal protection is to install in the engine between a hot wire and ground [engine frame]. But few tackle that. Remember you are wiring between hot and ground like a short.
A TVS is for arresting a voltage spike which won't trip a breaker as does an overcurrent surge.
Here is some info on the TVS's you need - PTC and TVS - Some Commonly Used Sizes and Part Numbers (from other threads) including part numbers and a supplier.
And here is some info on the PSX-AC breakers - Here is a link to the PSX-AC information - which also have surge protection built in. (The devices that Rick Rubino mentioned above.)
Adding a few TVS' here and there is still not a bad idea, just for a little protection. They are cheap and offer good protection.
