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Hello,
I am wiring a 30'x12' layout that is Legacy-only (constant 18V). I am using ross track w dz25000 switches. Ultimately the layout will have 40 some odd switches. I am powering the track with 5 180 watt powerhouses each serving their own block but sharing a common ground buss. I will use separate power supplies for switch motors and accessories.

Here is my question...should I power the switches in the same manner as the track, with 5 different transformers serving the switches in the blocks defined by track power blocks, or can I use one switch motor power source? I read a post by Patrick H (that I have searched for but been unable to find) and I recall that if one dz2500 has a problem it will interfere with power to other switches...I think.

I just want to be able to source any electrical problems as easily as possible.

thanks for any advice
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There are far more knowledgable people than me on this but,\

FWIW,

This is what i did with good success 44 switches so far.

Plain and simple.
Run 1 blue ,1 Red ,1Black wire all the way around the layout 14 gauge wire to underneath where the switches will go.Keep the three together in the same hole so you know never to connect anything but the 2500s to them.(I do have 2 switch towers connected just to know the switches are powered up)

Use the same transformer for Data driver and Switch power.

The data driver and the 2500s Ground wire hooked to common.(MUST share same common ground)

Data driver hot hooked to 14 volt(same transformer)
2500s hot hooked to 18 volt (same transformer)

Connect Data driver white wire to Blue 14 gauge wire.

When hooking your 2500s from underneath put them in groups of 5 before running them to buss , keep blue wire(data) direct.
As with any seperate circuit -Do not use same transformer that the ground has TMCC running through it.Keep it isolated or the signal will be traveling everywhere theres a ground wire. (My experience may causes TMCC Ground plane issues)
Patrick I assume you aren't using the non-derailing wiring on your layout as the dz-2500's common must be tied to the track common. I have essentially the same system but my layout is smaller (Around the room 16 x 27). I used a cat3 telephone wire buss around the layout starting at the bridge and ending at the bridge with the data driver tied to the middle of the buss so that the data feeds both ways to the end. I have a 12 volt outdoor lighting transformer feeding the buss at one end fused at 3 amps for the cat3 wire. The system works fine but I'm considering breaking the buss at every 5 switches with a dpst switch for any future troubleshooting. I think the cat3 wire might help with data on the buss as it is twisted wire.
Ron
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