Hello, this past weekl I have been trying to understand how to wire a tortoise switch machine so I can operate leds to a control panel and also leds for a signal for each turnout. I am not very good at reading the diagrams and need help understanding how I can accomplish this. What kind of switch do I need SPDT etc. Any help or direction would appreciated Andy
Bipolar LEDs with two legs can be wired directly in series with the Tortoise motor terminals. Connect the LED to either position 1 or 8 with no resistor required. For signals you can use the auxiliary contacts of the Tortoise but more information is needed. Rich
Switch I and many others use a DPDT switch that says in the position you select. The motor stay energized and keeps the point firmly in place. The motor only draws around 15 ma at 12 vdc. Some operate the motor using 9 vdc. Slower more prototypical movement. The motor comes with full instructions which are at the Circuitron website. Our club put a bi-poler green/red LED in series with one lead. Some use a separate green and red LED. Rich
Ok, This is slowly sinking in How would I wire multiple tortoises? Create a bus wire from my power source? And how would I wire turnouts where there are crossovers?
Multiple switches. Preferably on the facia at each turnout location for the switching crew. A DCC crossover. They come with instructions. Rich
