What would be the best way to protect the onboard DCS electronics from damage due to a shorting / sparking derailment?
Thank you, tt
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Tom,
The best thing to do is ensure that you have fast-acting circuit breaker or fuse protection for each TIU channel.
If you have a transformer, such as an MTH Z4000 or a Lionel 180 watt brick, you're probably good to go. Otherwise, insert a 10 amp fast-blow fuse or equivalent circuit breaker in the Hot wire between each TIU input channel red terminal and it's transformer.
The TIU already has TVS protection on each of its output channels.
This and a whole lot more is all in MTH’s “The DCS O Gauge Companion 2nd Edition", available for purchase as an eBook or a printed book at MTH's web store!
I can understand wanting to protect these things. I have seen them damaged.
None of my engines have ever failed from a derailment on two rail. I haven't had very many though.
I use the Lionel 180w brick and it is equipped with a fast tripping breaker. I still add a fuse between each brick and the Tiu. I got a Z4000, but haven't wired it in yet.
I would add a fuse/link inside each engine like I used to do with DCC installs, if I were worried. I believe the TIU helps a little with spikes. If you run with passive Tiu wiring, it won't help.
Bridging districts with big consists is where I worry the most. I ran a train thru a switch that was thrown the wrong way, into my engine yard that was turned off and everything fired up. It scared the $$$$ out of me!! Nothing happened as I hit the E stop. That also doesn't work with passive wiring.
correction per GJ!
Actually, since the TVS protection for the TIU is on the output side, passive mode should benefit from them as well.
There are also the PSX-AC's. Very fast electronic breakers with a bunch of additional features. Might be worth a look. Got mine from Tony's Train Exchange, but Charles Ro now carries them also, others may as well..
