Hi, I've wired up my layout for blocks HalfFast using common rail and Atlas selectors and controllers. It works but it aint pretty. I want to wire it up right for Cab control now, but flip the switch and go to DCC at a later date. Today I went out and bought spools of 20 gauge blue and white wire to match my Kato Power drops. I also have several 8 position terminal strips and 2P2T Center off toggels for the blocks. My Question is this. My layout is a wall mounted 10 x 10 x 24" in an L configuration and is made of 2 corner modules and a corner module. So I want to plan for future moving and or expansion. I'm using Unitrack, but not the Unitrack connectors. Should I run wires from the power drops to a terminal strip on each module, then from the module to the control panel ? or to a terminal strip on the control panel ? I'm using regular terminal blocks for the power, and had intended to use crimp on spade connectors to the terminal blocks. I also thought about using the European terminal blocks for the smaller wires of unitrack turnouts, and just tinning them and inserting them in the screwholes. I'm looking at about 14 turnouts, double mains, and about 10-12 blocks total. Your feedback, experience and Sage advice please. Thanks, Dave
one way would be to... If common rail wiring is working then do the drops and wire all of the commons to one power bus and leave the other wires alone. Oh yeah gap the track on both sides. Or... run all the pairs for each wire to a new control panel and just wire your DCC system to one side of the DPDT switches when it's time to go DCC. that would give you a half and half system.
Dave: For DCC, it's best to use two bus lines, one for each rail. Drop feeders from each section of Unitrack to the common bus lines. This is the way I wired the JJJ&E and I've had no problems with the wiring in almost five years. Also divide your layout into blocks using insulated rail joiners on both rails at both ends of each block. Blocks will be useful if you decide to use signals; they help in localizing electrical problems; and for block occupancy detection and feedback. Stay cool and run steam....
Use terminal strips, and I would suggest at least #18 gauge wire if this is HO. Double gaps, and power feeds will serve you well for DC or DCC. Jim Bernier
Thanks, the layout is in "N" and the longest stretch of wire from terminal block should be about 4-5 feet. I am using terminal strips, and I probably will need to upgrade the gauge of wire. Dave
