I have a Digitrax Zephyr Extra system, can I hook up two Digitrax UP5 Loconet universal panels to the system. They will be approx 10' apart and the first unit will be approx 10' from the Zephyr unit. I expect to be running 4 locos at most and want to know if there will be enough power for all of this from the Zephyr system. I am modeling on HO scale
Yes.
Dave
Lackawanna Route of the Phoebe Snow
I have approximately the setup you describe on my layout and it works very well. Just make sure to use the proper cables to connect the UP5s to the Zephyr.
Joe
You can connect as many UP5 panels as you like. They do not draw power. Throttles plugged into them draw power so the real question is: how many throttles are you planning to plug into the panels? if the answer is as many as you are now using with just the Zephyr's jacks, then no problem adding jacks. UP5's also have two screws on the rear to connect track power. This will supplement throttle power and also light up the led on the front of the panel. That led is also a nice visual reference to indicate power to a particular stretch of track. Especially when the Zephyr is not in view.
Martin Myers
It will work no problem.
Ricky W.
HO scale Proto-freelancer.
My Railroad rules:
1: It's my railroad, my rules.
2: It's for having fun and enjoyment.
3: Any objections, consult above rules.
No Problem,
The DCS51 'Zephyr Xtra' has two Loconet ports on the back of the unit. You can either run one UP5 off of each port, or 'daisy chain' the second UP5 off of the first UP5.
Your DCS51 has the power to run 4-5 engines with no problem.
Jim
Modeling BNSF and Milwaukee Road in SW Wisconsin
mfm37 You can connect as many UP5 panels as you like. They do not draw power. Throttles plugged into them draw power so the real question is: how many throttles are you planning to plug into the panels? if the answer is as many as you are now using with just the Zephyr's jacks, then no problem adding jacks. UP5's also have two screws on the rear to connect track power. This will supplement throttle power and also light up the led on the front of the panel. That led is also a nice visual reference to indicate power to a particular stretch of track. Especially when the Zephyr is not in view. Martin Myers
Just be aware that depending on when your UP5's where manufactured there might be a problem down the road in regard to connecting track power leads to the back of the UP5's. A few years ago Digitrax received some defective components (resistors?) that caused the UP5s to cause a short in the system. I know, it happened to me. I would advise to go ahead with the track connections but just be aware of the potential problem. If your system shuts down due to a system short, just disconnect the track power feeds to your UP5s one at a time until you determine which panel is now defective. Sorry to be a Killjoy, but you should be aware of the potential issue.