I want a small dc power supply to hook switches up to. I have a dcc podigy express to control my engines so I just need to control my turnouts and maybe a few lights..... I have an older MRC 1500 that would work, but it is big and has the throttle on it which I don't need.... I just want a small dc transformer with an ability to hook up accessories. any suggestions
What you need is a 'wall-wart' or other small transformer. Check out some of the surplus electronics sites for what you need. They are typically available in voltages from 1.5 volts to 24 volts and amperages from 100ma to 2 amps. They are available in AC and DC. I recently purchased some 12 VAC/1 amp wall transformers from Jameco for $4.00 each. They were surplus and were marked as being for some type of electronic dog fence. Look at All Electronics: http://www.allelectronics.com Or Jameco: http://www.jameco.com David
Don't turnout switches, etc. require AC ? I haven't looked into switches and things yet. I'm still using the 5-DCC method for those.
Eh, none come to mind right away that NEED only AC... far as I know, the "snap-snap" type should run off whatever you feed them. Circuitron motors actually need DC to function. Other slow-motor types probably need DC as well.
If your usiing twin coil turnouts, I recommend using a capacitance discharge circuit. It only supplys the voltage and current for a split second. There are many circuits and ideas on Rob Paisleys web site.
