All parts below can be found on Amazon(makes three throttles): WayinTop 3pcs PWM Low Voltage Motor Speed Controller DC 1.8V 3V 5V 6V 12V 2A 1803BK 1803B Adjustable Driver Switch with Speed Control Knob (Pack of 3) $9.99 3Pack Alligator Clips with Wires Test Cable $5.99 HiLetgo 10pcs AC 125V 6A Amps ON/ON 6 Terminals 2 Position DPDT Toggle Switch MTS202 $5.99 Yoodelife 9V Battery Clip Connector, 9 Volt Long Cable Connection Soft Shell I Type, Black, 5 Pack $3.96 (Optional)Pinfox 5 pack Electronic Prototype ABS Plastic Junction Project Box Enclosure 100mm by 60mm by 25mm for Portable, Arduino DIY (Black) $9.99 I've switched to DCC but every now and again I need to test DC locos. I made this years ago for when I was just DC and thought I'd share. A 9volt does pretty good for running a N Scale loco for a few hours. You don't have to use a 9volt battery or the box. You can use a dedicated power source up to 12v and a different holder. The switch will need wired for reversing polarity. Power will go to the driver from the driver to the switch and the switch to the clips/wires to attach to track. I drilled a small hole to the upper right of the rotary dial on the project box to allow viewing of the LED that comes on the board.
WOW! Very nice! I am tempted. Woulder if I could fit that in a box car? Maybe an 85' or a High Cube? > "for a few Hours" So, ideally to optimize battery life: * A small loco, (like the Kato Steeple Cab), * A storth distance such as a switching layout * A few light cars * Very clearn smooth track Thanks for posting this concept.
The Kato Steeple Cab doesn't need 9 volts... in fact, it'll likely take off like the "Energizer Bunny" (see what I did there ). I've been able to run it at a reasonable speed with just three volts. I just got tired of holding those two AA batteries together end to end...
I do have three little controls and a larger. But they would need ac for power and they are bulky. So, all I would need is the control knob thingy. I've goy the rest. Then I could run disconnected sidings and such.
