DCS installation and creating blocks

To create blocks, use an insulated pin or connector, or have a gap, in the center rail.  For DCS, use only one power drop to center rail per block.  Be sure to have ground feeds to outside rail at frequent locations.  They need not be adjacent to the hot feeds

Any good quality SPST (single pole/single throw toggle switch will do.

For optimal operations of conventional, have a lot of blocks--the entire layout divided into blocks---, each with a toggle switch and maybe a normally closed push button.  This will give maximum control of conventional locos, especially if you want to run several at a time.

dan,

   One other reminder, make sure you always run the red from your transformer thru the red of the TIU, to the red on your terminal block, and then to the mid rail all the time, when setting up your DCS controlled layout.  If possible connect this drop in the mid section of each block rather than the end of the block, for uniform DCS signal.

PCRR/Dave

Thanks Dave! I just started running the wires to the TIU and I believe I have the red wires in line as you mentoned. I will take your adv with a dientfferice an hope to include blocks in the layout. Is there a specific way to block scaletrac? I know with tubular I can use the insulated pins, and I hope to figure out the real trac as I have three distinct levels each with a different type track. Thanks for your advice.  Headed to the train room!

Easy way to Block Realtrax:

Place a piece of electrical tape on the center rail connector and a small piece around the end of the rail itself before joining the tracks.

MTH sells a Block section if you want them. It's a 5" piece with the rail cut in the middle of the section.

Point on your switches: Make sure they can handle the Amperage, recommend 10 amp contacts OR a lesser switch controlling a relay with 10A contacts.

For DCS this is the best way, mount the relay right at the power distribution blocks or next to the track itself and you can have your switch anywhere without running the DCS signal across the layout to get to the switch and back.

In my opinion, and based on my experience, relays are an unnecessary expense unless you want to have some exotic signaling or control system.  If you have a large layout, wired for optimal conventional operation with many blocks, the cost will be enormous.  Do be sure to use adequate gauge wiring for both hot and ground.

Russell is correct that a switch should have 10-amp contacts.

My layout was built for conventional, and I just dropped DCS into it when DCS came out.  I don't have any of this star wiring or terminal blocks and I use common bus.  ALl TIU red outputs go to a control panel where are located toggle switches for the 70+ blocks.

It works fine!

Thanks RJR and Russell for your tips. The electrical tape on the realtrac will save the very fragile copper contact from breaking as well. Can the same electrical tape be used on the scaletrac?  For tubular I imagine I would use the insulated pins in the center rail of the tracks on either end of the block.  Thanks Again I am sure I will be on the forum again seeking more electrical advice which I am very greatful for.  Off again to the train room.