Bicolor LEDs and Tortoise switch machines

[MRRSparky]

I would like to install two red/green LEDs to indicate switch (yes, I know most eveybody uses 'turnout') position for the toggle switches that control direction of Tortoise switch machines.  I am using a 12V DC power supply and right now have only one Tortoise installed. 

Radio Shack only has one such bicolor red/green LED.  I'd like to know if I can use it without installing additional reistors?  The store clerk had no idea and I don't find technical help available on Radio Shack's web page.

The specs show 100 mW power dissipation, 30 mA forward current, an 10 somethiing or other Amps reverse current, 5V reverse voltage and two different forward voltage ratings, about 2 V for both red and green.

If I have to install resistors, won't that reduce the power available to drive additional Tortoise switch machines? 

[jrbernier]

  The 'bi-color' LED's I bought were from Radio Shack as well - just a pair of leads on it.  The LED is wired in 'series' between one pole of the toggle and one contact(either #1 or #8) on the Tortoise.  Depending on polarity, it will light either RED or GREEN.  You might have to reverse it to match how your turnout is thrown.  The Tortoise only draws about .015-.018 amps at full stall, so the current flow will not damage the LED.

  When the Tortoise is fully thrown and at 'stall', the LED will glow brightly(either RED or GREEN).  When it is moving, the LED will chang colors, but be sort of 'dim'.  Once the Tortoise goes to 'stall', the LED will glow bright again.  This is a very simple, 'fool proof' installation.

Jim

[Blind Bruce]

Everything Jim said is correct. You made a comment about using more than one Tortoise. The wiring doesn't change for one or one hundred Torti. The current capacity of the power supply determines the maximum amount. If your supply is unregulated however, (like a wall wart), its voltage may drop below 12V and cause slower operation. Tortoises are reported to operate reliably with lower voltage.