I'm still working on constructing my Capacitor Discharge Unit/Diode Matrix combo to power my switch machines (Altas twin solenoid). I started to think about "what's next" and I am now wondering what size wire will handle the juice between the Diode matrix and the switch machines. I have several rolls of 22 gauge solid wire that I would like to use if possible. I have a feeling 20 gauge might be more appropriate...
The particulars:
-The CDU/DM will be no further than 6 feet from any given turnout.
-I don't anticipate throwing more than 5 points at once
-I'm running the CDU off an old Life-like transformer (12-14V)
-The CDU is constructed with 3 1000mf capacitors for "pop" or "snap" (hold the crackle)
Guidance?
Thanks!
If you are concerned you could just double up conductors with the 22 ga.
Elmer.
The above is my opinion, from an active and experienced Model Railroader in N scale and HO since 1961.
(Modeling Freelance, Eastern US, HO scale, in 1962, with NCE DCC for locomotive control and a stand alone LocoNet for block detection and signals.) http://waynes-trains.com/ at home, and N scale at the Club.
22 ga is fine to run a single Atlas unit. Don't try to run five of them on one wire. Feed each one seperately or you will get too much voltage drop.
Karl
The mind is like a parachute. It works better when it's open. www.stremy.net
For the short runs you are planning, 22ga wire will handle up to 7 amps! (Surprised me, too.)
For long runs and continuous use, the same wire is rated at just under 1 amp, and has about 1.7 ohms of resistance per 100 feet. I'm pretty sure that the momentary pulse of a CD unit would safely pass enough power to throw any commercially-available switch machine, even on a basement-filler.
Chuck (modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)
tomikawaTT wrote: For the short runs you are planning, 22ga wire will handle up to 7 amps! (Surprised me, too.)For long runs and continuous use, the same wire is rated at just under 1 amp, and has about 1.7 ohms of resistance per 100 feet. I'm pretty sure that the momentary pulse of a CD unit would safely pass enough power to throw any commercially-available switch machine, even on a basement-filler.Chuck (modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)
7 Amps!
Good news indeed!
thanks all around