Indicating Turnout Position on Operators Console

[Anonymous]

Hi, I'm now wiring a layout I'm building with my 12 year old son..his Christmas gift. It'sa modified version of the Great Eastern Trunk layout plan published by Atlas (HO layout #25 if interested). The layout has a number of #6 switches that form cross-overs from one mainline to the another. To make the layout a little more realistic, I'm using Atlas under-the-table switch machines as well as sodering common and block wires.

What options do I have, other than Atlas SNAP Relays, to power turnout position indicator lamps to an operators console?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions....Carl

[michaelstevens]

[8D]

I've got over 100 Atlas remote turnouts on my layout -- most of which I can't even see -- and my system (for turn-out position indication) is

(i) to label my #56 switch controls (self adhesive labels in package), then

(ii) to simply color (e.g. red) one side of the light blue button on the #56 switch control, so that I can quickly see when that turnout is set to the diverging route.

[:)]

An important tip for using the Atlas components is to only wire two switch motors to one #56 switch control (i.e. both of your cross-over switches) -- exceeding this (e.g. adding a snap relay) risks frequent burn-outs of the #56 control.

Enjoy your new layout !!

[:D]

[Anonymous]

So, what about red/green lights? Sounds like your saying no?

[Big_Boy_4005]

The snap relay may be the easiest method. In addition to the machine that physically throws the switch, you will need a set of contacts to change the light colors. The contacts will need to be moved when the switch is thrown, and finding and installing compatable contacts is not an easy task. The snap relay performs both functions with a minimum of effort and wiring.

[michaelstevens]

Yes Carl -- I'm recommending that you keep it simple -- oh and minimize the load on your #56 switch controls.
If you really must have control indicator lights; you would want to look for other electronic equipment, than the basic Atlas stuff.
Now if you're thinking about setting up color light signals (for the trains) -- that would be a whole different project !!

[Anonymous]

I found this link http://www.awrr.com/indicator.html which is exactly what I was asking.

However, since this is a simple layout for my son I think I'm going to keep it simple and either use a few SNAP Relays or none at all. However, I do think there are some pretty cool ideas here for those of you thay may be interested in delving into micro electronics....Carl