I have a small AC motor in a windmill (N/HO scale) that is powered by the AC accessory port on a transformer. Is there an easy way to run this motor on DC current? I plan to reconfigure a small computer power supply to supply 12v, 5v, and 3.3v to various things on the layout. Thanks, Mike
AC motor Not that I am aware of. i have a small Christmas tree ornament the has two moving trains. It plugs into the tree lights which are AC. never could figure out a method. These small AC motors are quite different from DC motors which use magnets. AC motors have no magnets and operate in only one direction. Rich
It's entirely possible that the motor will run on DC with no modification. Many AC motors are universal motors and will run on AC or DC, but I don't know how to identify a universal motor other than to just try it on DC (and if it's not universal, I don't know if that would damage it).
AC only motors don't have any brushes, so if the connections just go to a coil on the side it is most likely an AC only motor.
I should have looked at the motor first to find some markings. It is a common hobby motor I now see, the Faller Synchromotor 629. I don't find any info on the motor other than changing the gear ratio. It is AC 12-24 volts and has a reverse switch. I may just try it with a few batteries and see what happens.
If it has a reversing switch, it is most likely a universal motor and should run on DC. Hook a 9 V transistor radio battery across it and see if it turns. The battery should not have enough current to damage the motor if it does not work.
