Wiring For Two Transformers

Hi Vandey,

I run 2 trains on my layout using Atlas selectors.  It's simple to set up and works very well.

Hope this helps.

Thanks Jon I will look into getting one.

You're welcome.  Instructions should be on the packaging.. As mentioned, the wiring is pretty simple.

Let us know how it goes.

Do I need two of these?

My layouts are set-up to simultaneously run Conventionally and LC.  I use the Atlas #215 switches for independent control of multiple block sections.  The #215s have inputs for two different power sources (A and B) but will also work with just one.  Each #215 has 4 switches, each of which can connect power from either power source to any connected track sections (blocks) or disconnect them.  These switches can also be repeatedly ganged (connected together one beside another) to power more than four blocks.  If you want to use two different transformers, make sure they are properly phased.  More info about phasing transformers has been covered in many previous posts.

Hi Vandey,

It depends on how many tracks you want to wire separately.  Each selector has 4 integrated 2 pole 2 throw switches and are designed to work with 2 separate transformers.  For example:  you can power your main line with one selector switch and 3 yard tracks each connected to a selector switch.

Here's what I got:

Not the best pic, but hopefully this can give you an idea. It's shows wiring for 2 rail, but works with 3 rail too.  This was taken from the back of the Atlas selector packaging.  Hope this helps.  Please keep us posted.

Ben,

Based on your comment on another topic, it sounds like your question was answered here.  What switching option did you go with?

I ended up using the atlas 215. My plan in the future is to be able to change between conventional and command control and hopefully this will allow me to do so. It is working great right now with the two transformers.

I don't have or have seen Atlas track but I don't understand why 'devices' are needed.  Can't he just phase the 2 trannies and that's all that he has to do short of isolating the yard from the mainline???

- walt

Phasing your transformers is a simple solution that doesn't require any Atlas #215 switches. Lionel has a video on phasing transformers. When you get to adding command-control, all you will need to run both conventional and command engines at the same time is a Legacy Powermaster and PM Adapter Cable to connect your transformers to the LPM (if you don't use Powerhouse Bricks). I use an LPM on my own layout, and I run both Legacy and Conventional locos.

Also, with the transformers in phase, all you need to get a conventional train from your mainline to the yard (or vice versa) is to set both transformers to the same voltage. Since the ground is the same on both transformers, the train will run perfectly between the sections of track. It's the same for command-control, except that the transformers are set at 18V.

I think that just having the selectors makes it easier to  r able to change trains from the loop to the yard. Another thing that I like about the selector is that you can choose which wire controls which track and not just to its respective block. Again this is just my opinion.

Phasing the transformers is always recommended, and was here. The switches may not be needed, but having them in place allows one to power down certain blocks, which has lots of advantages (covered at length in other forum Topics).  The Atlas#215 Controller has 4 independent SPDT switches that in addition to the off position, allow either of two transformers to independently control any of the 4 connected track blocks.  I would post the easy to follow wiring instructions on the back of the #215 package, but there may be copyright issues, and it's really simple to connect once you isolate the track blocks.

At less than $15 each, they are economical, reliable, easy to connect and operate.  If you'd rather control everything with Legacy, that's up to you and your budget.

Even though I hope to have a Legacy system in the future, I'll still want the piece of mind knowing that my parked conventional and $$$ Legacy Locomotives are disconnected from the track power busses with hardwired switches and not just a zero in an active microprocessor.