If I have a TVS placed as show on a block where the power comes in from the transformer, is there some protection for the trains that are on the track supplied by feeder wires coming from the other parts of that block?
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Sure!
As I understand TVS protection, it depends on where a voltage spike originates and where your train is positioned at the time. And given that the electric current is moving around (taking the shortest route to your engine), you can't be 100% sure of when your train is protected. That's why having the TVS inside the engine, just before the delicate electronics is the best place for them.
However, it's better to have them setup as you show them in your photos than not as this will protect your trains with some percentage of probability.
I purchased a bunch of them, and I am putting them at each track connection for the star wired layout. There are also a couple of them along the power wires from the transformer. Cheap insurance.
Is there any merit in putting a TVS in the locomotive between the roller and the frame ground?
@Danr posted:Is there any merit in putting a TVS in the locomotive between the roller and the frame ground?
You bet, for maximum protection, that's the best place for them to be.
@Danr posted:Is there any merit in putting a TVS in the locomotive between the roller and the frame ground?
I'd love to see a picture of this if anyone has done it.
TVS installed in an MTH PS3 SW1500:
Takes a few seconds to do once the hood has been removed:
GRJ took me to task for not insulating the diode leads but I can't see how they could touch any metal. On of these days I'll get lazy and pop the hood and slip a couple pieces of shrink tubing on those leads.
@geysergazer posted:GRJ took me to task for not insulating the diode leads but I can't see how they could touch any metal. On of these days I'll get lazy and pop the hood and slip a couple pieces of shrink tubing on those leads.
Don't worry, one day you'll understand and get well acquainted with Murphy! 
@MikeH posted:I'd love to see a picture of this if anyone has done it.
I didn't take any pictures of it and, since it is working, I don't want to temp fate and open it up. The locomotive is an MTH Railking steamer. In this locomotive the ground and roller have screws to hold the leads to the electronics. I trimmed the TVS leads to fit and curled them around the screws. All insulated, GRJ, so that Murphy doesn't come to visit.
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
