Question on Wiring Type

[Tom Bryant_MR]

I found that I have some 50 ft or so of the wiring used for those low voltage outdoor Malibu lights. Package says 16 guage 2 wire 12 volt. It's stranded.

I am planning a 19 x 15 ft layout in garage.

Could I use this for my main DCC run ?

Thanks

[Big_Boy_4005]

16 gauge stranded should be just fine, given current loads in model railroading.

I'm not sure if DCC enters into the picture on this issue, but I don't think so. So, yes it should be OK.

[dgwinup]

16 gauge wire should be okay. 12- or 14 gauge wire would be better for the DCC power buss as there is less voltage drop. 16 gauge is great for track feeders, wiring turnouts, building lighting, and almost any other wiring need on a layout. You will always have a use for it.

Darrell, quiet...for now

[cacole]

16 Gauge should be more than sufficient even for DCC bus wiring. The Sams Handbook of Electronics Tables and Formulas indicates that 16 Gauge wire has a current capacity of 13 Amps for electronic equipment and chassis wiring, and you will have nowhere near that from a DC throttle or DCC power booster.

[Janafam]

16 guage is adequate for the buss. Be careful with stranded wire when adding feeder wires. Look around for an attaching device called a suitcase connector. This clamps onto the buss wire biting through the insulation for contact. It beats trying to strip the wire to solder on a feeder.

[Tom Bryant_MR]

Thanks everyone.

I also found a couple of small spools of 22 guage wire that I could use for the feeder drops. Amazing what you find when you clean out the 'ole garage.

Thanks again.