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5 replies

MTH Z-1000 / Z-controller output voltage question

B bajinnovaOGR Forum Member

I just bought a used MTH Z-1000 that looks to be in great condition.  I don't have a layout yet so I can't test it with a train, but I fired it up and checked it with my multimeter.  I measure these AC voltages:

Brick 14V accessory output: 14V

Brick cable output that goes to Z-controller: 19.6V

Z-controller output with throttle set to full, no buttons pressed: 16.8V

Z-controller output with throttle set to full, pressing a horn/bell/whistle button: ~18V

Now, my multimeter is not the "true RMS" type, so I don't expect it to be accurate with a chopped sine wave and I have no idea how it handles the DC offset when buttons are pressed.  But I was a little surprised that the max measurement without sound buttons was less than 17V (nominal voltage is 18V).  On the other hand I have never tested the output voltage of another transformer and I have nothing to compare it to.  Do my measurements seem reasonable for a healthy Z-1000?

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B bajinnovaOGR Forum Member
Moonman posted:

I too concur, but the controller output may reach the brick output with a load on it. Be careful and check the track voltage from the controller if you are running Lionel modern equipment. 18 volts maximum for that. Legacy, TMCC, LC, LC+, etc.

Thanks, I'm only planning conventional equipment (assuming a late-90's Liontech e-unit and diesel horn don't count as "modern equipment").  But that's interesting -- I wouldn't have expected voltage to increase with load.

M MoonmanOGR Forum Member

It has been a while since I performed the same measurements. I had three units on a museum layout and I have two home for miscellaneous use. I seem to recall that the voltage through the controller was the same as the direct brick on the units that I tested. 

Anyway, your transformer is putting out good numbers. If you short it, you have to unplug the brick to reset the breaker. Have fun!

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