What voltage do I need for HO locomotives on DCC++EX (12, 14 or 16)? I'm thinking 3A output for a small layout with only a couple locomotives operating... Thanks
For the Arduino motor shield and other L298 chip motors drivers, you need around 14-15V. You lose 2 volts at 1A of current, but it can go higher as current rises.So that will give you 12V at the track. If you use an IBT_2 or other high current MOSFET based boards, make a mental note that they do not have this drop. So now or in a future upgrade, be aware the full power supply voltage will be on the track. Your decoder manuals will tell you what they think is the ideal voltage and what limits they have. Fred DCC-EX
I'll admit I'm a total DCC beginner, never having owned or operated a DCC system. I had read that HO wants 14 volts on other sites. The DCC++EX shopping list recommends a 12 v supply for the motor shield but in a later section under power supplies, a 14 v supply is recommended for HO. Thanks Fred, I will order the 14 v supply.
Okay, beginner stuff, found out to identify positive and negative wire, just cut off the jack and connect direct... sorry for such a beginner question...
Don't apologize, ask and learn. Not everyone wants to get deep into the math of electronics. Just let us know when you want the simple answer (just buy this) or a bit more of an explanation (Connector doesn't matter as long as it is rated for the current you will run through it). But I hate to cut up power supplies. Use these: https://www.amazon.com/Ksmile®-Female-2-1x5-5mm-Adapter-Connector/dp/B015OCV5Y8 You can get them in smaller quantities or buy them from AliExpress and wait longer to save a bit from China. You plug your power supply into the female barrel end then use wires to connect from there to the motor shield. Use 1' or less of 18 or 20 gauge wire
Thanks for the information Fred! I was looking at that exact product from Amazon! Some of the power supplies have a larger connector (6mm x 10mm) than the standard 2.1 mm by 5.5 female connector. The linked HO power supply will not work with a standard female connector as it is too large. I have these adapters on hand but they will not work due to low V rating and too small connector. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072BXB2Y8?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details You make a great point about reviewing specifications but sadly Amazon provides limited, incomplete data.
After a significant looking, the only reasonably priced solution I can find for a 14vdc 3a power supply is a replacement PS for Samsung monitors. The output jack will not fit in my standard female connectors so I will need to cut the cord, strip, identify +/-, and wire direct to the motor shield.
