Hello Model Railroaders,
I've never built something quite like this before... I am currently working on an art piece which will involve an N scale train layout; one which will need to be completely DCC. I've been trying to get the layout running on DC, and have had some amount of success; though still some configurations of switch positions render parts of the track unpowered. I've tried to fix the problems by placing feeders in the locations indicated in the diagram attached below...
I am in serious need of assistance.
I have an NCE power cab, that's the DCC system I plan to use, at least to start. Ultimately, I would want to be able to run 3 locomotives at once on this track. Can anyone tell me what else, if anything, I will need in order to have a fully functional, reliably operating dcc layout with the track shown here? What considerations do I need to make, and what further kinds of devices, (if any) do I need to purchase? I'm using Kato's Unitrack system. I really need to finish this art piece, the clock is ticking. What would you suggest?
Many thanks in advance,
-Charles
Hi Charles: In order to assist you, it would be helpful to have additional information on the drawing. Please show where you have placed insulated rail joiners and identify the portions of the layout that are NOT working, and indicate the position of the switch (turnout, actually) when each does not work. The simplest way to identify the portions of the track are by labeling areas BETWEEN turnouts and numbering the turnouts, so we can reference them easily. I would venture that your stub end yard works fine, but the crossing does not in certain orientations. Also, double check to be sure ALL of the wiring is consistent, meaning the same polarity to the same rail, all the way around the layout. Joel
Sounds like your turnouts are of the power routing variety. To overcome this, you are going to need more feeders.
Make sure every stretch of track off every leg of every turnout has a pair of feeders to ensure all the track is powered regardless which way any of the turnouts are thrown.
My suggestion ....
Mark.
¡ uʍop ǝpısdn sı ǝɹnʇɐuƃıs ʎɯ 'dlǝɥ
In addition to Mark's suggestion, I would add some feeders to that long stretch on the north side of the outer oval and on either side of that oval, and at least a pair of feeders on the east side of the inner oval. In my opinion, you cannot have too many feeders.
You also should consider at least two if not three power districts with a circuit breaker for each. Before you get too much farther along, I would recommend that you consult Allan Gartner's Wiring for DCC web site.
Finally, and not to rain on your parade, I suspect that you will not be able to run three locomotives on that layout, two yes, three no.
Bear "It's all about having fun."
Those Kato turnouts are power routing. Here is a link to the portion of the Wiring for DCC web site that deals with your issue. It is worth a read.
http://www.wiringfordcc.com/switches_kato.htm
Rich
Alton Junction