I am in the process of getting an N scale layout running, I have installed my mainline track with 8 blocks and a reversing section. I an working on my control panel and am anxious to see if I got things right once its wired and running. I am using Atlas selectors and a controller for the blocks. I have been told that I shouldn't use my transformers ( 2 Tech 4s) to power the switch machines because throwing switches will affect loco performance. Is this true? I have also been told that the power supply for a computer would make a good power supply for the switch machines. Does that make sense? How would that work? I will be using twelve tortoises on the mainline and more later for yards. Thanks for any help.
Welcome to TrainBoard! spacfic: I am going to try to get this question in another separate thread so you will have a better chance for a good answer. I think it is better in DCC and Electronics forum. Please check there. Thanks to you for posting and for all who migrate to DCC and Electronics to help.
In my personal opinion you need a separate power supply for the tortoises not because they are a major power drain but because I like to keep things dedicated. A computer power supply should do the job. According to Circuitron's web site 12 volts at 500 milliamps (1/2 amp) of current is sfficient to power up to 30 tortoises. Gary
Knowledge is cost effective. The Tortoise AND the Atlas Controllers, etc. are all throw switches of one sort or another and can be fabricated by anyone with a little knowledge. It all comes down to desire, time and financial savings. I would also bet that perfectly adequate DPDT switches may be had from electrical supply houses at a fraction of the Radio Shack or Home Depot prices.
If you are using Tortoise switch machines you CANNOT use Atlas switch controllers as they provide a momentary contact only (this is fine for Atlas or other twin-coil switch machines however). Tortoises require constant DC power, so you will need a separate supply, either a dual polarity supply with turnouts controlled by SPDT switches or a single polarity supply with DPDT switches (See the instruction sheet that came with the Tortii). Allowing perhaps 50 ma max per switch machine, a 1 Amp supply or wall-wart would be sufficient. The advice you received is fine for twin coil machines, as it relates to the drop in train power caused by the momentary draw on the accesory output that is typically used for switch machine power (much like you room lights dimming when the air conditioner starts up). If you are using any twin-coil machines, try it out and, if objectionable, use a separate supply.
Mr. Stuard - thanks for the reply. To clarify, I will be using dpdt toggles for the switch machines. The Atlas controller is their proprietary name for their set of switches that will control the reversing section. It appears that you are a Southern Pacific fan and by the photo of the FA 8(?) at the bottom of your post, I'm guessing early diesel - 1950s or so? I am purely steam - 1940ish probably modeling some fictitious aspects of the central valley of California -taking lots of liberty to include anything else that would be fun.
Every Thing You Wanted to Know and werent afraid to Ask about Turtles Here is a link that will answer most all of you questions I like the two wall transformers tied together to power them, combine that with a DPDT center off switch and a 2 legged red/green LED (Don't forget the resistor if put in parallel) and you will be golden!!!! http://www.wiringfordcc.com/sw_ctl.htm#tort_conn
