Ground Wiring: AC V. DC Grounds

Thanks Dale

Thanks ago Dale. 

Understood about AC/DC wiring induction separation.

I am thinking about running 14 AWG as the main ground bus for track AC power and separate DC ground bus for other lighting and accessories. Will that work? Or can I get away with one 14 AWG ground bus with 18-24 AWG ground feeders.

Thanks Again

I too have used this technique, on a portable layout, with great success. It makes it possible to do some spectacular train control.

I will also be using it on my permanent layout for train detection, but without relays. The occupancy information will be fed into a computer via C/MRI. (Computer/Model Railroad Interface) The DC ground is a must for the system to work.

Dale, I wish I knew exactly how the C/MRI system worked. I understand the concept just fine, but the specifics at the electronic level tend to boggle my mind.

I've owned the system for over 20 years. I used it when I had enterTRAINment at Mall of America. It has been in storage ever since. Back then other people set it up for me, so I never learned how. I'm going to need to find someone new to help me with the new installation. I have someone in mind, if he's still working on layouts.

The system consists of input and output cards, placed on a motherboard and controlled by a serial connection to the computer. Each card has 24 ports. I'll be using inputs for detection, and outputs for signals and switches.