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Bee Jay

2K views 8 replies 7 participants last post by  holava 
#1 ·
Hi,
I have just signed up. I live in Australia. I had a train set when I was about 12 -14 and have always wanted to set up another one. So 54 years later I have begun, however I am basically a novice and would appreciate some answers and advice.

1. I intend to have approx 8 metres of track with points etc. How many electric inputs of power (I dont know the correct terminology yet) would I need for that size track, OR would one be enough to cover that size track.

2. What size / type of transformer would I need. I intend to put lights in the houses as well. Bear in mind Australia has 240 volt power.

3. Can you run a train on an open ended track. I just want to test some old trains I have

Kind Regards.

:smilie_daumenpos:https://www.modeltrainforum.com/images/smilies/smilie_daumenpos.gif
 
#2 ·
Welcome to the forum. Does your train run on AC or DC power? The best way to wire your layout is to run a main line and have feeders every three feet or 0.91 meters. That wil help with any voltage drop.
 
#5 ·
Bee Jay

Welcome to the Forum. We have several from
Australia among our members.

There are three major power systems for model
trains: AC transformer for 0 gauge, DC power pack and DCC
controllers for N and
HO gauge trains. Which do you have in mind?

DCC (Digital Command Control) is the latest innovation for control of trains. It allows the operator to run 2, 3 or even
more trains at the same time, each individually controlled.

DCC puts a continuous approximately 14 volts modified
AC on the track at all times. The controller imposes digital
control information on it also. Each loco has a decoder
with an 'address'
that accepts the digital data and responds by causing the
loco to move forward or backward and at varied speed.
Sound is also available.

The length of your track has no relation to the power
required by the locos and lighted cars. Each loco, running
at typical speed, will draw around .2 or .3 amp. The typical
DCC layout uses a 1.5 amp power supply, however if you
have a layout with many locos you may want to use a
5 amp power supply.

The power source feeds a 2 wire bus that runs under
the layout. You connect drops from the track every 6
feet or so to afford smooth continuous voltage everywhere.

The DCC controller powers ONLY the tracks. You would
need additional power sources for accessories.

Your turnouts would be powered by a separate 12 volt
Source, either AC or DC depending on the turnout motor
type you use.

Your building and other lighting should also be powered by
separate power source.

There are power supplies for each type of layout available
for 240 volt service. Voltage matching adapters are
also available.

You can run test locos on a straight open end piece of
track simply by connecting it to your controller.

Our members are here to answer any of your questions
to help you get started right on a very rewarding hobby.

Don
 
#7 ·
As DonR mentioned, if you're planning a layout with a number of locomotives, you will want a 5 amp power supply. If you have an old computer lying around waiting for trash day, you can use the power supply out of that. I do, and I'm planning to!
 
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