I have a Z1000 power brick that I knocked off the layout onto the concrete floor. There is no perceived damage to the case but I am wondering if I should open it up before I plug it back in. I don’t want to risk damage to any engines or a possible fire. I have a replacement If necessary. Thanks in advance for any suggestions
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Transformers are pretty tough. If the case survived, I'd expect that you're OK. The transformer has laminated plates and insulated copper windings. The only fragile parts would be the case and the breaker.
The safest way to test it would be to take it outside and prepare for the worst. Put it on a sidewalk or driveway away from other flammable materials. Plug it in and see what you've got. An internal short will trip the breaker in the panel. In the highly unlikely event of a fire, unplug it. If you have one, keep a fire extinguisher handy.
Assuming it powers up OK, measure your output voltage. Without a load it will likely be 20+. Prove to yourself that it is in working order. My thought is you should be just fine.
Thanks Gilly, I will take your advice.
Takes a licking!
But you'd better go step by step, in case.
(stop that; don't lick that brick again Gilly...No more about Uncle Fester either young man )......
I suspect the transformer is fine. If the case didn't break, it's hard for me to imagine the Z1000 brick being damaged internally. The case is by far the most fragile part.
I've dropped my brick, on carpet, and mine is fine. If that helps you.
- walt
Thanks for the help everyone, the OGR forum is the most important tool I have access to. I have learned so much from everyone here and it has saved countless hours when working on the layout. The knowledge base here and the willingness to share that information has made this forum an incredible resource, and without it my projects wouldn’t come close to what they are. Thanks again