I want to make a control panel for my new Std Gauge portable and would like it to retain an old school fee to it. I want to use my Z transformer.
I know the breakers are an often discussed subject, but the search yields so much I will never get through it.
1; What model breaker would I need to put in line to protect the trains and TIU?
2; Any other major issues I need to be aware of?
thanks
Steve
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Steve,
There's more than enough information under,"TVS". I don't know if it's an over-kill or not. I installed a TVS at the transformer before my TIU. I also installed a TVS on each MTH Lockon. (I have eight). I only own one Std Gauge PS2.0. No problems yet.
If someone has more information, I'm sure that they will chime in.
Might want to be careful of the voltage itself.
Can't a Z put out nearly 25 volts? Probably not good for TIU.
-Dave
Here's a recent thread about the very same thing. It's short and offers a few suggestions for different breakers. I think for the most part we are all over the place on what's best for breakers. All are pretty much in agreement on the use of the TVS.
Looking for fuse/breaker suggestions
The TIU has a built in TVS, but installing more here and there like at power connections to the track couldn't hurt a thing and they are very easy and inexpensive. If you select USPS first class shipping, Digi-Key has very reasonable shipping rates and fast too. It is the 1.5KE36CA that seems to be the most popular here.
Digi-Key - Micro Commercial TVS
Then there is always the nice shiny new ZW-L that was specifically designed to run our modern electronic trains. I'd love to have one, but those are a bit over my budget for railroad power.
Thanks for the info. The TVS was the item I remember reading about, but not for the life of me remember the name. Breakers and TVS's have been ordered.
Steve
Steve,
I had to check my newer Std Gauge layout last evening. I wanted to be sure that I did not forget anything, sure enough I did. Make certain that you're able to preset your track voltage. I used two inexpensive digital testers from Harbor Freight for a long time one on each loop. This past year I finally replaced the testers with actual analog voltage gauges. I moved the test meters over to my two accessory circuits. My DCS loop is preset at, 12.5V. The other loop is reserved for a few of my vintage Lionel pieces. Which as you know are voltage, "hogs". Please keep us up to date with photos of your progress.
Steve,
Which breakers did you decide to get?
Bob
Steve,
Which breakers did you decide to get?
Bob
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