Wiring switches on DCC layout

[KTFlory]

Hi everybody, newbie here. I've been out of the hobby for about 15 years now and decided to jump into this DCC thing. I picked up a NCE-25 Power Cab and all new Atlas track and started work last week.

I down think there is an AC output on the NCE system like on the old transformers, so my question is how should I power my turnouts once I get all the motors and throws mounted under the table?

So far I've learned that you can use stationary decoders hooked up the the track, but I would rather not have to use the controller to input addresses and such, I prefer the tactile feedback of the push button and trow lever systems of old.

Is it possible to take a 12V AC wall adapter, hack of the end connector and then just wire up the switches, toggles and LED indicators as if it were an old DC layout?

Thanks!

[jeffrey-wimberly]

KTFlory

Is it possible to take a 12V AC wall adapter, hack of the end connector and then just wire up the switches, toggles and LED indicators as if it were an old DC layout?

Of course it is. I use Digitrax DCC for my track power but my turnouts are powered by an old Bachmann 6607 trainset power pack and momentary contact DPDT switches.

[richhotrain]

Get yourself a decent DC power pack like the MRC Railpower 1370 and wire your switches, toggles and LED indicators to it on the DC side of the terminals.

Rich

[BroadwayLion]

Switch machines and DCC track have nothing in common. The ONLY reason I can see for putting decoders on switch machines is 1) to eliminate extra wiring, and 2) to allow local control by an engineer walking along side of the layout. (Hand thrown switches, anyone?

LION *LIKES* big tactile switches, him the master of big tactile switches, him built a 1:1 scale representation of a GRS interlocking plant. But of course then, you have to keep a full time tower operator on duty.

I suppose it is a matter of what you want to do, and how you want to control your switches. LION thinks DCC far too complicated, what with having to punch up an address before you can throw the switch.

If you walk around put toggle switches on the fascia, if you stay in the control tower, then the controls need to be there.  The LION walks round and round, and the trains run round and round, and him works on scenery while the trains run round and round, and about every five minutes him has to return to the tower because the terminal needs attention.

That is what him built, that is what him does!

ROAR

[MisterBeasley]

Since you said Atlas track, I'll offer a couple of suggestions.  Those little blue-on-black controllers that come with Atlas turnouts have a poor record for failure.  Consider buying small panel-mount toggles, single-pole, double-throw momentary contact.  Electrically that's the same, but they will last longer.

And, get a Capacitive Discharge Unit, or CDU, to run your turnouts.  You can build one for a few dollars, or just buy a pre-made one.  Not only will you be able to give your switch machines a stronger kick, but you will also protect them in case of a toggle switch failure.

[UPinCT]

Hi KT,

You said you where in the hobby before.  Do you still have your DC power pack?  You can use your old power pack and power your turnouts from that.  No need to power your turnouts DCC.  I have a Digitrax DCC system but use my old MRC DC Power pack to power the turnouts.

[joe323]

I did just that when I converted the SIW to DCC. I left the powered turnouts alone (some are hand thrown my choice) connected though a CDU to my old MRC power packs AC terminal. Which left the DC terminal for lighting etc.