Joe Hohmann wrote:Seems odd they didn't call it a "CW40". PowerMax seems like something that should have 300+ watts....
Seems odd they didn't call it a "CW40". PowerMax seems like something that should have 300+ watts....
Or a CW-30 - it's rated output is 30 watts, less than half due to the lack of a fan to dissipate heat off the 1 triac(as opposed to the fan cooled two triacs in the CW-80).
Rob
Seems odd they didn't call it a "CW40". PowerMax seems like something that should have 300+ watts. It's a shame so many CW80's had problems. I was lucky...the first 2 I bought were problem free, and they are still in use powering 2 loops of TMCC operation on my small layout. Bought 3 more since then, for $35-$40. each ( for my 2 Christmas layouts and Grandson's carpet layout), and they, also, are working fine.
They DO need a lighted car on the track for a conventional reversing unit to work, and some people don't like the "power ramp-up" feature (although it may save some traction tires from flying off due to jack-rabbit starts). I like the handle control better than the ones on my KW. But, to each, their own. Joe
About half the power of CW-80 and no fan.Less Assesory posts. Basic starter set transformer IMO. I had one fail out of the box and was replaced by Lionel with a CW-80
The Powermax seems to be a stripped-down CW80. In particular, it lacks the accessory output, thus sidestepping the common-terminal problem of the CW80. Do I recall correctly that it also lacks the fan?
Here is a forum topic about it:
http://www.trains.com/trccs/forums/967868/ShowPost.aspx
Bob Nelson
In the discussions about transformers, I'm a little confused. Can't find a powermax xformer on Lionel's site, but a manual I found of one online looks exactly like a CW-80. Are they the same thing or am I missing something? Some clarity appreciated.
Dan
Our community is FREE to join. To participate you must either login or register for an account.
Get the Classic Toy Trains newsletter delivered to your inbox twice a month