Hi Guys... Is it a must to have a PS12 power supply for two panels??? I am getting ready to hook up a pair and not sure about the power supply. Thanks
There is no requirement to have any power to the UP5 panel. The external power is optional. The purpose of the aux power is to provide power to the throttle when it is plugged in. If you have a lot of throttles plugged into LocoNet at the same time and you don't have aux power, then you might experience LocoNet problems. I don't use the UP5 panels, I use high quality 6C6P outlets. I have never had a problem. However, it is rare for me to have more than 1 or 2 throttles plugged in at a time. I am using radio throttles so the only time I need to plug in is to acquire a locomotive or make up a consist. David
No. As posted above. I have a Super Empire system w/ 3 UP-5's and none are connected to the 'aux' power. I had the same question when I purchased and installed my system. I telephoned the Digitrax tech' folks and they just reiterated what is in the manual. The manual is pretty good at explaining when this is necessary, etc. In otherwords (per the manual and instructions) unless you have a need or desire to preserve battery power in your controllers, then it is meaningless to connect the PS12. You should be just fine.
Again, that is just optional. Also, if you ever plan to have signals, don't hook it up. It is a load on the track and it will make the track/zone/block show occupied unless you tie into the buss before the detection board. David
