I'm rewiring my control panel and wonder what I can use to protect against voltage spikes between the Z4000 transformer and the TIU to prevent the electronics from being damaged during derailments? I was using fuses but they don't seem to work very well ....
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Try using a TVS or transient voltage suppressor from Mouser Electronics, bi-directional 32 volt.
Fuses don't work on voltage spikes or peaks, you need instant protection and the TVS units will do that.
I am not sure but I thought that the TIU has some kind of TVS protection inside.
Lee F.
Get yourself a Lionel Direct Lockon for each circuit or loop of track on the layout and your problems will be over. They're faster then fast. Installed just behind the TIU they activate before other breakers get started and reset automatically after a short is corrected.
I use two Lionel 180 bricks into the two variable channels on the TIU. The lockons have performed flawless. And as a bonus I see track voltage displayed on the DCS remote where I raise or decrease track voltage. No need to hang around the transformer
If you're using a PW ZW, one on each circuit is the perfect upgrade
Joe
Call me "old school", but I use "QSI Powerguards" connected directly to my Z-4000 output terminals. I also use one of Scott's Odds and Ends Spike protectors on one layout.
The QSI units have a red spike light as well as horn and bell lights.
Kerrigan,
Invest your money elsewhere. The TIU has built-in TVS's on each channel.
This and a whole lot more is all in "The DCS O Gauge Companion 2nd Edition", now available for purchase as an eBook or a printed book from MTH's web store site! Click on the link below to go to MTH's web page for the book!
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