Hi!
My last layout (DC) had two MRC Controlmaster 20s to run trains, and an MRC Controlmaster I strictly for the Atlas switchmachines and lights, etc. It worked out beautifully, and I highly recommend a separate power source. Sooo, on the DCC layout I'm currently building, the trains are run via Digitrax, but the Atlas switchmachines, etc. are run off the MRC Controlmaster I.
ENJOY,
Mobilman44
ENJOY !
Living in southeast Texas, formerly modeling the "postwar" Santa Fe and Illinois Central
Yes, they work fine from DC - a capacitor discharge power supply typically puts out DC, even if the input is connected to AC. I would highly recommend a CD supply, either build one or buy one, especailly if you have all the switch motors paralleled with snap relays. A small investment that will keep you from burning out any switch motors or snap relays if a button does stick (or rather, when, if you are using the little atlas control boxes).
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
I use the accessory terminals on an old power pack for throwing my switches. It's AC. I did install a circuitron snapper on my clubs layout. It connects to the accessory side of a power pack but the output of the snapper is DC. So it would seem that DC will work for you. Just make sure whatever pushbuttons you use to throw the switches doesn't stick and burn out the coils.
I was wondering if Atlas switch machines & snap relays can be powered by a DC power source?
Thanks in advance for any replies.