ground wire and toggle switch with DCS

Jeff,

quote:

In Barry's book, it says to only run the hot thru the toggle switch

There's no reason to switch the Common as regards DCS, however, it's perfectly fine to do so if you have a special need.

Thanks Barry-

So, just so I understand before I start running wires, when I want to tap a LED indicator off a toggle, I should run the common thru the toggle then to the track, correct?

Jeff

If your layout is larger I recommend switching loads with relays. With DCS the relay could be mounted near the siding or block being switched. Only a #22 wire need be run from the control panel to the relay. With a DPDT relay you could break the common if you want but I do not see the need. No need to run heavy twisted paired wires in and out of a control panel. You guys make it hard on yourselves. Shown here.

http://www.jcstudiosinc.com/Bl...d=635&categoryId=426

Dale H

Jeff,

quote:

So, just so I understand before I start running wires, when I want to tap a LED indicator off a toggle, I should run the common thru the toggle then to the track, correct?

I can't comment either way regarding your application.

quote:

Originally posted by jcovert:
Hi-

I am running a few of the hot and ground wires from my terminal blocks to sidings controlled with toggle switches. In Barry's book, it says to only run the hot thru the toggle switch. If I am to tap LEDs off the toggle switch as indicator lights, how should I wire the ground back to the toggle switch so that the indicator lights will work?

Note I am just beginning to run my wire, so I can run them whatever way people suggest is best for this (I am using star wiring with 2 TIU)

Thanks,

Jeff

Jeff,
I try as best as i can to make this a simple answer,
With lighted switches or lights for switches the commons or grounds all tie together .You don't need to switch them.

You'll notice that switches with a light have 3 prongs one of prongs is common or ground for the light to burn ONLY . The other 2 are to switch the hot wire to the track or accessory you want to turn off.

Now if you want a pilot(Light as an indicator beside a switch)

Tie all the commons together like before and run the hot wire for the light to the load side of the switch so when the switch is on the light is too.
Hope this helped

David

Thanks all -

Very helpful!