Multiple switch machines running from one electrical switch

[Anonymous]

Can anyone give me an idea if this is feasible and won't burn out anything? I would like to have two switch machines (Atlas Snap Switches) run from one control switch. This is for a by pass track and I would like the entrance and exit to the bypass be open/closed at the same time. Thanks,

[trainboyH16-44]

It would work. I have seen many layouts with crossovers and even full double slip switches hooked up to one toggle switch.
Matthew

[Bob Hayes]

I have a single crossover using 2 Tortoise switch machines controlled by 1 DPDT switch. The only problem you might run into, if not using a capacitor discharge power source, is the capacity of your power pack and the current draw of the Atlas switch machines.
Bob Hayes
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[Anonymous]

I have several pairs of Kato N-scale yard track turnouts that I operate with a single switch. I have no problem with them and like the way they work.

Larry

[wrumbel]

I do this for all my crossovers; both turnouts have to be aligned. If your turnouts are very far apart you will need 20ga or 18ga wire to make them both throw at once. I power my switch machines from an old power pack mounted under the layout.

Wayne

[rrinker]

In an application like thios, or really for anything using snap-action solenoid machines like Atas and Peco, a capacitor discharge supply is a good idea. Both to insure that both machines throw fully, and to help prevent damage to the coils if a button sticks. Capacitor discharge supplies are rather inexpensive - you can buy the Circuitron Snapper, or build one yourself, the circuit is simple and makes a good beginner's electronic project.

--Randy

[Anonymous]

I use Tortoise and on my two double crossovers I throw all four of them at the same time.

On my last layout I use Kemtron twin coil machines and would throw up to three of them with one switch at one time with no trouble.

[cutlass12001]

I have USA Trains switches outside in my garden. I would like to wire them up to Crest Electronic Walk around Engineer so I am not tied to one place in the yard. Only one problem, the USA trains switches are controlled by 5 wires, 3 for switch operation, and 2 for lights, and the crest controllers only have 2 posts. Has anyone wired these two makers together so that they will run? And then how do you program the controller so that you can operate the switch? I've tried reading the instructions. I can get the receiver to get signal but it won't turn the switch. Any suggestions?