Phasing a PWZW & PH180

Connect the ZW "U" to the Command Base "U".

Turn on the track power to 18 volts. Turn up the ZW "A" lever to 18-20 volts(full).

With a VOM, Check the voltage from the track center rail to the ZW "A" post.

If it's 0-2 volts, you are in phase with the PowerHouse.

If it's 36-38 volts, t's out of phase. Turn the ZW wall plug around in it's socket and check again.

Thanks Rob, I've had the command set up for years and haven't got the full use of the TPC for running conventional yet. My son wants to run some older conventional engines but I want to power the switches with aux power first.

I've been using a PH180 on two loops 10x20 and eight switches with ease however I want to add another loop and a half a dozen more switches. I though about just getting another PH180 but I still want the switches on aux power. Since my PWZW is just sitting there I figured I'd put it to good use. In the searching I've done it looks like I better put in a TVS and in line fuse. Am I correct on that?

I've been putting off this task for a while. I always relied on my dad for electrical needs and he's not readily available nor is the meter. So I guess it's my time to learn and go buy a meter. Do you have a recommendation on a VOM? You help is appreciated. 

Bryan

For this purpose, something like THIS will work just fine.

A 4-5 amp breaker in series with the switch power should do, as well as a bi-directional 36 volt TVS in parallel(from "U" to switch power) will protect that circuit.

you can get one of those free with a coupon and purchase of anyother store item. If you don't have a coupon, download one, or pick up a circular in the store and clip the coupon. That is of course if there is a Harbor Freight store nearby. 

Don

Hi Rob

Quick question, the breaker and the TVS are in Parallel OK?.  Where in the power flow

(grid)  would this circuit be located? 

bmac,

Do you have any more pictures of your layout?  I also use fastrack and like to see other peoples track plans and layouts for ideas.  I like how you have the switch coming off of the corner to what looks like a siding.

A 4-5 amp breaker in series with the switch power(at the ZW terminal - A-B-C or D), and a bi-directional 36 volt TVS in parallel(from "U" to switch power ZW terminal - A-B-C or D) will protect the switch circuit.

Thanks Rob

I see now!!! 

Tommy

Bryan,

   If you are planning to run DCS, which I highly recommend you do, the TIU has built in TVS, use a set of Scott type 10 Amp breakers between your transformer & your TIU,

then run your Legacy on the opposite outside rail.  Everything will then run perfectly.

In reality if you set up in blocks, using the 12 track join discipline, you can use track power to operate all your FasTrack CC switches, I operate the FT CC switches with my Cab2 from track power.  When set up properly you can run 99 low voltage FT CC switches from track power, once you reach 100 switches then operate them from a separate power supply. 

PCRR/Dave

Thanks Rob I’m going to try and pick up the meter, breaker and TVS today.

Thanks Don on the HF coupon idea.

Miken thanks, I too like seeing what others are doing with FT.  I’ll take some more photos sometime soon and share them with you. I had the plan in SCRAM but my home PC failed and it was lost. Right know I only have access to a tablet at home. The other end of the layout has the same switches connecting. It’s two loops that are connecting and a long siding for passing. I plan on expanding with a reversing loop on the inside and then a line up to another level with a reversing loop.

Dave I’m not sure if I’ll get DCS or Legacy. Right now I’m just running older TMCC with a cab1 and my switches aren’t command control. Thanks for the advice for future.

I’ll keep you posted.

Bryan