Hey guys. Just started to build my new railroad after my last attempt 12 years ago. Quick question though... I'm in the process of buying the track for the Atlas Super Pretzel layout. I purchased the DigiTrax DCS 51 throttle control and it leaves me wondering if I need multiple terminal tracks on my layout anymore since this set up is digital. I only plan on running one loco on this track (budget restrictions at this time). Will one terminal provide enough power? According to the directions (which are for an analog set up I believe), 11 separate terminal tracks are required.
Espcieally with sectional track with lots of joints, you do need more than just one set of feeders to the track. Joiners work loose and stop being good conductors, leadign to dead sections and stalls. A simple test oval would get away with one pair of feeders, but a more complex layout should have more. What you should do is eliminate the insulated joiners (unless there is a reverse loop, that will need to be isolated - but with DCC you can use an autoreverse so all you need to rememebr is to throw the turnout as the train rolls through). Instead of the Atlas common rail wiring, connect wires to both connection on the terminal tracks (or use terminal joiners - NOT the atlas ones, solder wires to joienrs yourself for a fraction of the price). Use short lengths of #18-#20 wire, and attach these to some heavier wire, #16 or #14 is fine for that layout, and then connect that heavy bus wire to your Zephyr. This will be much more reliable in the long run that just connection one pair of wires to the track.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
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