I'm in the final stages of my layout planning and now need to figure out the quantity of items to buy. In each power block, how many power drops should I put? My thoughts are one in the middle or one at each end for two in the power block. Which would be better or what has others done? Thanks.
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Would help to have more info. Is this a Command layout? Conventional? If you ever plan to use DCS, it requires a different setup.
How about a graphic of the layout and some info on how large the power districts are?
On the layout I am currently building I soldered jumpers across every rail joint. Then I have one set of wires coming to the bus bars that run under the layout. I don't have a large layout, 4'x12'. As I start to develop sidings, I will continue the practice of jumpers at each rail joint, so if I want isolated sidings, only one power lead will be required to each siding.
I learned, the hard way, in my garden railway when I used to have track power, to use the jumper method. A lot of bending over on my knees, but it was worth it.
You haven't given enough information for a detailed answer. However, as a general rule, you should only have 4 to 5 track joints between each power drop.
Dennis
Here is another thread with track diagram where I asked a different question, but this one has come up. Thanks.
Lets keep this information with the original thread so it is easier for others to refer to when needed....see Sinclair's link above.
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