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Wiring 6x8 DCC layout

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  • Member since
    October 2006
  • From: Western, MA
  • 8,571 posts
Posted by richg1998 on Monday, November 2, 2015 11:21 AM

So 3 amps should be plenty.

Our club has a two room layout and run one NCE 5 amp system with as many as ten sound locos running. About three amps used.

We power turnout machines with 12 vdc.

Rich

If you ever fall over in public, pick yourself up and say “sorry it’s been a while since I inhabited a body.” And just walk away.

  • Member since
    August 2015
  • 371 posts
Wiring 6x8 DCC layout
Posted by fieryturbo on Monday, November 2, 2015 9:43 AM

So, I am building a 6x8 layout that I will run entirely on DCC, turnouts and all.  I have a Roco 10761 command station, which I believe is 3 Amps. I have a full layout done in AnyRail, but I am only going to do the center section first.

(ignore the missing track section on the inner loop)

How many amps do I need to run the track I have laid out? I am looking at running about 2-3 sound-equipped locomotives, plus turnouts.  I am also aware there is a certain amount of resistance involved over the wires, so 3A at the booster does not mean 3A at the track.

I plan on wiring the turnouts with a separate supply, later.  For now I'll just use manual switch machines to push the frogs.

Which gauge of wire should I choose for the best mix of resistance and economy? Copper isn't cheap!

Finally, for my immediate plans, if I first build the inner loop, will the single 3A booster be enough for 1-2 locos?

Julian

Modeling Pre-WP merger UP (1974-81)

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