From a newbie with DCC:
How do I power turnout machines on a DCC layout. I am using Atlas turnouts with under the layout Atlas machines. Can I use track power or what?
Thanks in advance.
Use the AC terminals on a DC powerpack. One of the cheap trainset packs is good for that. Use the Atlas switch controllers and wire it up like it is said on the instructions. Dont mistake the DC for the AC, you can only use AC power for the switch machines.
Jay
C-415 Build: https://imageshack.com/a/tShC/1
Other builds: https://imageshack.com/my/albums
soumodeler wrote:you can only use AC power for the switch machines.
you can only use AC power for the switch machines.
Actually, DC seems to work perfectly fine on the half dozen atlas machines in my hidden staging.
I use a capacitive discharge circuit with about 10,000uF to throw two at once. You just need to make sure that the power supply can put out enough current (or use the CD system). AC or DC doesn't matter.
to the forum.
Karl
The mind is like a parachute. It works better when it's open. www.stremy.net
modelmaker51 wrote:Actually you can use either AC or DC.
Do NOT use straight DC, what a CD supplies is very different from straight DC.
The problem with straight DC, from a power supply with sufficient power to through the machines reliably, is that the control switch will arc, wearing then control switches very quickly, and probably overheating the coils of the machines.
Use a CD (capacitive discharge) system if at all possible. AC is 2nd best.