I've been following the pulsed DC thread and it is very interesting, but it leads me to the question I'd like answered. Which DC power supplies are best for N Scale? I will list my peeves with my current supplies 1) They all go way past 12V, so I mark them at about 10 and 12 V, so I don't burn out any motors. This is why I specify N Scale in the question. 2) I haven't proved it, but I don"t think they all behave equally. That is, they all start my locos moving at ~2.xV, but the fine speed control varies. 3) They don't all have over current detection (or at least not visibly). Some of them have a light, others don't. My O Scale stuff all has built in breakers, I'd love that, but it may be overkill in N. That said, I did manage to burn out a low end supply from 1 starter kit in less than a year. I had another starter kit supply (different vendor) arrive DOA, but since replacement has been my favorite. I may not actually go out and buy another supply (I really want to go DCC), but I am running multiple small loops right now, so who knows...
Personally, I like my power packs to have as many features as possible to save my locomotives from ruin. As a precaution, my layouts all have spike protection from the wall out. Second, I like my power packs to have amp gauges, volt meters, a somewhat realistic and physical feeling throttle, momentum, braking, and have the amperage to accommodate at least 3 locos under one throttle. I only run one train per cab, but have run 2 to 3 on occasion, and want the power pack to hold up under those rare circumstances. Some of the older MRC's do a very good job and have those features, and some of the newer brands are including these as well. But it is often difficult for me to ascertain if any particular power pak can accommodate 2 or 3 locos, as I am not versed on voltage/amperage. I also like the power pack to be able to sit on a table or be mounted to the side of a frame, and last, to spoil this old codger, if the gauges can be lit independently, that would be appreciated. I am an old F#@$#t and often get up in the middle of the night to run a train to get back to sleep. It would be nice to be able to read a gauge in the dark. Ken "FloridaBoy" Willaman
