Emergency power cutoff switches

Bob AndersonOGR Forum Member

This is a simple idea, but it just occurred to me after years of model railroading. I used to wire 3-way electrical switches to provide two separate power cutoffs around the layout. But I don't need true 3-way capability. For my current layout, I run power to a mounted power strip with a cutoff switch, and from there to another one, ... , to my transformer. By creating a serial line of power strips, each plugged into the previous one, mounted in strategic locations, hitting the "off" switch on any one kills power to the layout. Simple, inexpensive, and effective. And with all the switches in an "on" position, any one of them can be used as a master power on-off for the layout. I'm embarrassed that I didn't think of this about 10 years ago.

3/31/2111:46 AM

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gunrunnerjohnOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

Mine emergency cutoff is simple. I have four of these remotes and five remote controlled outlets. The top four are for each of the PH180 transformers, this allows me to reset them remotely and not have to push the button on the transformer. The bottom switch, as you can see from my crude graphics, is my master off, that kills all the power to the layout. I usually put one in my pocket when running so I have access from anywhere, even out of the room.

This is the set I bought, I bought two sets so I have more remotes.

DEWENWILS Remote Control Outlet, Upgraded Version Wireless Remote Light Switch for Lamp, Household Appliances, 15A/1875W, 100 FT Long Range, ETL Listed, White (2 Remotes + 5 Outlets Set)

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3/31/2111:57 AM

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ADCX RobOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

@Bob Anderson posted:
ThI used to wire 3-way electrical switches to provide two separate power cutoffs around the layout...

Oh you were so close with your first scheme. You can add as many DPST "4-way" switches as needed between your 2 "3-way" switches for layout power, and only one needs to be thrown anywhere to power up or down regardless of the positions of all other switches. The voltage losses would be less too eliminating all of those little rocker switches and plug connections as well.

3/31/2112:58 PM

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Bob AndersonOGR Forum Member

Thanks for the replies. I didn’t know of either of those alternatives.

3/31/211:06 PM

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gunrunnerjohnOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

The attraction of my remote control job was it took zero installation time and just about $60 in materials. I plugged all the transformers into four of the remotes and the wall connection has the master controller. These are rated for 15 amps and they come from a dedicated circuit. I don't conceive of my layout ever needing close to 15 amps total, so I'm pretty safe here as far as capacity.