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This is my first layout, it isn't very large, approximately 9-1/2 foot x 12 foot 'U' shape, but I was hoping to minimize Fastrack connectivity issues with frequent power drops to an under Base power Buss, with a new drop every time I cross a Fastrack switch (with a dedicated 14v power supply).

In working on my first two drops, testing each drop individually works well (using Cab1L/Base1L and the larger Power Master with a PW-ZW that has a 10amp external fuse), testing shows consistent voltage across the two drops. When I connect both '+' and both common to my temporary power leads, the red light on the Power Master comes on, blinking then solid, I get no voltage reading. If I connect both '+' and use only one common I get the same results.

I understood I could run an under Base Buss and tap into it where ever I wanted. Do I need to create Block sections?

The photo 1 shows the two 036 turns I was try to have each have their own power drop, there's an 036 switch on the left side of the photo and a wye above the bridges on the right side.  Photo 2 shows the wiring drops under the Base.

I have run the mockup layout with only one power connection. I've also now connected each section with a soldered wire on the center rail, except at the switches. Am I overthinking this?  Should I use on the one power supply for a layout this size?

Thank you in advance, you experience is appreciated. - Tony

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Images (2)
  • 24_09-28 Wiring Issue 1
  • 24_09-28 Wiring Issue 2
Original Post

I can think of a few possibilities for the short you're describing.

1) Maybe blacks and reds are not consistently hooked up to outer rails and middle rail.

2) Or If I understand correctly, you have a 14v power supply connected to the Aux in on the switches and presumably removed the jumpers.  To do this successfully, both power sources [(ZW/Powermaseter) & 14V Supply] need to be phased with each other.  The "GND" is common to the Terminal labeled GND and the outside rails of the switch.

3) Also, you may have one or more switches with Power Terminals that were internally mis-wired at the factory.  This was fairly common with some O36 switches in recent years.

First question is do you have a multi-meter?

Last edited by SteveH

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