I'm in a long slow process of building a control panel for our layout. I first thought I would want a voltmeter and an ammeter for each ZW output, but then I realized I probably wouldn't have much of a load on any single output. I have 10 amp magnetic circuit breakers on each output.
The ZW outputs handle the following:
A: Lower level track
B: 022 switches (12)
C: Accessories
D: Upper level track
Is it worth it to see the ammeter reading bouncing around 2-3 amps on each output? Or should I only use one ammeter for the entire layout (commonly wired as ZW is only power source) to monitor total power draw of the ZW? What is really important here?
Granted the meters are more for fun and visual effect than truly monitoring the voltage and amp draw, but I think it would be interesting to see how much the switches are drawing, and comparing that to a heavy train pulling up the grade. I'm leaning towards 1 ammeter for each output, but if it is better to monitor / consider total draw of the transformer, then I'll think about adjusting my approach.
Control Panel:
Meter cluster:
If wiring ammeters into each individual output:
If wiring 1 ammeter for total ZW amp draw: