Just received the PTB-100 programming track booster. I want to install it, as the instructions suggest between my Command Station (Digitrax DCS 200) and the progamming track. It is a relatively small ckt bd with small mounting holes. I think I want to use 1/8 inch nylon spacers between it and the mounting surface. I would be interested in hearing from anyone regarding the best method of mounting the booster. I presume that the shrink wrap should be removed (?) Also, the leads are about 8 inches long......what is the best way to splice wires to them to reach the various devices, i.e., command station, progamming track, etc.?
Thanks.
I just used a small strip of double stick foam tape to mount mine and small wire nuts to extend the leads to the programming track. The other four wires were long enough to get to my power source and the DCS 200.
Not too fancy but I remember when I installed it that this was only temporary... 7 or 8 years ago. I did remove the shrink wrap but in hindsight I would have left it on if I were to do it again.
This is one of those set-it-forget-it devices. Other than glancing at the LEDs every once in a while, it runs in the background and I never give it another thought.
Flawless performance... Ed
I left the shrink wrap on and just laying flat on the shelf. Like Ed, I used small plastic wire connector nuts.
Rich
Alton Junction
DON'T remove the shrink wrap unless you are going to permenently mount the PTB in a location where no components will ever touch anything else in the general area. The shrink wrap serves as a layer of insulation to prevent electrical shorts.
Installed the PTB permanently between the DCS100 and the programming track. Installed and forgotten. Works every time. Every now and then I glance over at the flashing lights to see if it's doing anything. More a curiosity than anything else.
Like all Soundtraxx boards leave the shrink wrap on.
Merry Christmas
All the responses were greatly helpful. Thank you all very much. The photos speak a thousand words! I like the idea of the splice nuts, too. My PTB will probably be mounted next to my command station, so the shrink wrap will give it protection. If there are any other ideas, feel free to submit!
Thanks again. Al
astapleford The photos speak a thousand words! I like the idea of the splice nuts, too. My PTB will probably be mounted next to my command station, so the shrink wrap will give it protection.
The photos speak a thousand words! I like the idea of the splice nuts, too. My PTB will probably be mounted next to my command station, so the shrink wrap will give it protection.
Hey Richhotrain; looks good! I decided to use 1/4 inch squares of Velcro to fasten my PTB-100 to a bracket holding my command station. I used the splice nuts to connect to my programming track. Hooked everything up, and presto, was able to program my 2 new Athearn Genesis GP-40-2's! (D&RGW).
Thanks to all for your input. Al.