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8 replies

Using CAT 5e cable to power Tortoise switch machines

GlofkinatorGlofkinatorOGR Forum Member

Greetings all,

I'm currently planning my first permanent layout. I'm planning on using as separate DC transformer to power my Tortoise switch machines on my ross switches. I've been doing quite a bit of testing with a small rig that allowed me to try different wiring, control switch, and LED possibilities so that I would know what works the best for what I'm trying to accomplish (these are very versatile little machines!). For my small test rig, I ran power to the tortoise with a 3 foot length of CAT5e cable. It's perfect for testing because there are 8 insulated 24 gauge conductors in CAT 5e and 8 terminals on the switch machine. The switch machines have an incredibly low amperage draw, so I knew that I would have no problem on a small test setup, but can anyone see any reason why it would not work or be unwise to use this on a permanent layout? 

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RRDOCRRDOCOGR Forum Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

Cat 5 is more than adequate.   The Tortoise machines only draw 20ma when stalled.

Consider using a 12vAC power supply plus 2 diodes (1 amp diodes will handle 50 Tortoises).   The wiring is simpler, uses SPDT rather than DPDT switches, and you can easily add signal and/or panel LEDs without even using the contacts on the Tortoise.   The optional LEDs on the right are wired between the center of the SPDT and either lead 1 or 8 of the Tortoise.  If the Red/Green signals are wrong, just swap leads 1 and 8 of the Tortoise. 

Bob

GlofkinatorGlofkinatorOGR Forum Member
Sparky74 posted:

Have 13 tortoise machines wired with Cat5e off dual latching relays with zero issues.  

Rob, can you give me an idea of what you're controlling with the relays? Do you mean that you're using the switch in the machine (pins 2 - 7) or using a separate relay?

I'm just starting my plans and have looked at utilizing some relays and was looking for some examples if you have a moment.

If anyone else has any examples, I'd love to hear them.

Last edited by Glofkinator

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Tags: CAT5e, Tortoise, switch
Views: 720
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