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John, I don't use DCC but I think the supplies are constant votlage DC supplies, definately not variable DC. Some MRC power packs have three sets of output; variable DC, constant DC and AC accessory power. The accessory power powers the lights and some types of switch machines. The variable DC powers traditional two rail cab wiring and the constant DC power can be used for a second cab control. I would think that the constant DC could be used for a supply on a DCC controled railroad. To connect your layout to the power using the Tech II 2500 throttle, I would get two terminal strips (the black kind from Radio Shack). Place jumper wires along one edge connecting all the screws on one side together with wires. Do this to both terminal strips. Connect this side (jumper side) of the terminal strip to one of the variable DC outputs on your throttle and connect the other variable DC output to the jumper side of the other terminal strip. Now each terminal strip is attached to one of the power pack outputs. Next you look at the layout and assuming it is some kind of oval, waterwings or whatever, you have an inside rail and an outside rail. Connect the inside rail to one terminal strip all the way around your layout. Run a (jumper) wire from each connection to the same terminal strip and connect the wire to a position on the side opposite the jumper side. Then connect the outside rail to the other terminal strip in the same manner. Now the inside rail is connected to one variable DC output of the power pack and the outside rail is connected to the other variable DC output of the power pack. If you don't have any "reversing sections" then this is all you will have to do to run one cab on you layout with DC two rail wiring. Later, when you have learned how to hook up DCC, you will find it easier with the terminal strips already connected as I have suggested. The lights and atlas switch machines run off the AC accessory terminals. I haven't done so on my layout yet, but I recommend you buy a 'surge' circuit like the 'Snapper' advertised in MR from time to time. The switch machines are connected to the output of the Snapper and that will improve the operation of your switch machines. Don't do this if you are not using twin coil switch machines like those produced by Atlas. I think this is discussed in Andy's book but I may have read about it in another book called Electronics Projects for Model Railroads or something like that. I could build the one in the book myself, but I wouldn't recommend anyone do it unless you think you are comfortable with all the terminology in the book. Good Luck - Ed
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