Ok guys need some expertise here? Im building my new N scalelayout and changing to DCC I want to use Peco switches. Which are better to use ELCTRO FROG or INSUL FROG? AND now the tough one, How do you wire the switches? Thanks for your help, Tony
I cannot help on the choice of Peco turnouts to use, however the following link will help you get orientated with the wiring for DCC. http://www.wiringfordcc.com/switches.htm#a12
I've used both on my NTRAK modules with no real problems. Based on you cries for help though, I would guess that you are electrically challenged. In that case, I might be inclined to go with insulfrogs, as the wiring is simpler and there is less possibility of shorts across open points. If you run short wheelbase locos or steam, you may have an issue of loss of current at the insulated frog, although I have had no problem with anyone running on my NTRAK modules. Read the wiring for DCC link provided above however, and maybe buy one of each and futz with 'em before making a final decision.
Thanks guys, That was probley the best DCC site Ive been to explained alot. Yall will hear back from me soon thanks again, Tony
Insulfrog are much simpler to wire, needing no power routing. They also have less places where neighbouring pieces of metal have opposite polarities (can't remember where exactly, maybe the points?). By this I mean the rail the wheel rests on is rail polarity A, and right behind it is a guard rail / flange / point with rail polarity B. Not that the wheel rolls from one section of rail to the next. If wheels can bridge metal bits at opposite polarities, you get a short and the whole DCC system shuts down. Very frustrating. But, insulfrogs do have the dead area across the frog, maybe as much as an inch. (N-scale) If you run a big american prototype engine with all-wheel pickup, this won't bother you much / at all (I've had no problem on my lonely one or two electrofrogs, except running against the points!). If you have an english prototype steam or other 0-4-0 shunter, you're in trouble The wiring-for-dcc site is very good on DCC friendly points. :thumbs_up:
